Amateur jockeys banned from taking part in races in BHA crackdown in line with Covid restrictions on sports

THE BHA have banned amateur jockeys from riding due to the worsening Covid-19 pandemic.

Racing chiefs have moved to prevent part-timers from race riding in line with restrictions concerning non-elite sport.

And from Saturday, they will be unable to take part in races under ‘Rules’ for the foreseeable future.

A BHA statement said: “Amateur riders will not be permitted to take part in races under the Rules from this Saturday 16 January, onwards.

“This is in line with government restrictions around the definition of elite sport and the associated suspension of grassroots sport.

“Existing races will have their conditions changed to allow for professional riders only until further notice.”

The decision is likely to affect traditional races such as the Royal Artillery Gold Cup at Sandown next month.

The historic race is for veterans of the armed forces and has been won in recent years by Captain Guy Disney – the first amputee to win a race in Britain.

There are also three races for amateur riders only at the Cheltenham Festival.

It remains to be seen if restrictions will be lifted in time for amateurs to ride in the National Hunt Chase, Kim Muir or Foxhunters at the four-day meeting.

Hunter chases, which are held under Rules for amateur riders and point-to-pointers, will still be held but with professional jocks.

The statement continued: “Hunter chases will continue to be programmed but, in line with the restrictions outlined above will be open to professional riders only. This includes conditional riders.

“The base weights for these races will be reduced in line with other professional races and the associated race conditions will be updated accordingly.”

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