Denton Hall News

Dods praises Newcastle for getting racing off to a good re-start

TRAINER Michael Dods has praised the “impeccable organisation” behind racing’s return at Newcastle Racecourse today.

Michael, who had three runners on the first day back, said: “There’s clearly a lot of work gone in to getting it right and it’s a really good start that bodes well for the future.”

A host of strict safety measures were put in place to protect everyone involved in the 10 races, staged behind closed doors.

The precautions start as soon as the horses are declared to run four days in advance, with an email having to be sent to the British Horseracing Authority, confirming the names of the staff who will be attending with the horses.

Upon arrival at the course today, the staff – Travelling Head Lad Kenny Williams, along with Aidan Redpath and Rob Brown – had their temperatures taken, and identity confirmed at a second checkpoint.

Saddles were placed on a table outside to avoid anyone going into the weighing room, and the parade ring was marked out to ensure social distancing was maintained. Jockeys all wore face masks during the ten races, with no spectators allowed.

“It was very well done, and the staff were well looked after with drinks and sandwiches provided, so congratulations to Newcastle for getting things going in the right way,” said Michael.

“When you compare it with what you see on the beaches and, with the protests in London, the racecourse is probably one of the safest places to be at the moment.”

The stable had three runners today – Dancin’ Boy, Heath Charnock, and Twist of Hay, which finished a promising third at 33-1.

“They all ran well despite obviously being rusty,” said Michael, who has five runners on day two of the Newcastle meeting.