Britain's racing industry has been severely impacted by the ongoing cold snap, with Lingfield's Winter Million fixture becoming the latest casualty of the Arctic blast.
Lingfield's Winter Million abandoned
Lingfield's three-day meeting, including the much-anticipated Winter Million, has been called off due to the freezing temperatures. Despite efforts to cover the track, the sub-zero conditions rendered the track unusable. Lingfield officials confirmed the cancellation, citing the lack of improvement in the weather forecast.
Ascot's Clarence House Chase at risk
The prestigious Clarence House Chase at Ascot is also in jeopardy. Last year, the race had to be rescheduled for Cheltenham's Trial Day, and it appears history may repeat itself. The clash between El Fabiolo and Jonbon could be postponed to the Champion Chase at the Cheltenham Festival in March. El Fabiolo's owners have expressed their reluctance to travel for a rearranged race.
Newbury's fixture abandoned
In another blow to the racing calendar, Newbury's scheduled fixture on Wednesday has been canceled. This news comes as a disappointment for Sky Sports Racing, who recently signed a new five-year deal with the track.
Other cancellations and uncertain races
While some tracks, like Southwell, have managed to proceed with their jumps card, Ludlow and Wincanton have had to abandon their Friday fixtures. Haydock's going has been declared frozen, and officials are hoping for a rise in temperatures before Saturday's race. Taunton's meeting on the same day is currently unraceable and will undergo inspection on Friday at 12pm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean when a horse is described as a ‘stayer’ in racing terms?
In racing, a “stayer” is a racehorse that excels over long distances. Typically, the distances exceed one mile. Stayers require not only speed, but endurance as well to maintain their pace during long races. Renowned Stayers compete often in long-distance racing such as Ascot Gold Cup.
How does the handicap system work in UK horse racing?
In UK horse racing, the handicap system is designed to give every horse an equal chance of winning a race. In essence, the weights that horses carry in a race are determined by their previous performances. Weights are heavier for better horses to equalize the playing field with horses who have had poorer performances in the past. In the UK, the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) is responsible for handicapping. Their team of handicappers updates ratings regularly after races.
What does it mean to have a ‘photofinish finish’?
The ‘photo finish,’ is when two or multiple horses cross the finishing line so closely together that the winner cannot be determined with the naked eye. In these instances, race officials will use a camera at the finish line to capture images in high speed and review the exact moment that each horse’s nostril reaches the finish line. The photo finish allows officials to accurately determine official finishing order.
How do racehorses are bred and chosen for racing purposes?
The goal of breeding racehorses is to produce horses that excel on the racing track. Breeders choose sires and mares who have proven racing pedigrees in order to produce offspring that are characterized by speed, endurance and temperament. Thoroughbreds have a long history of racing in England, and the bloodlines are meticulously recorded. Before they start their racing career, prospective racehorses are often put through a selection procedure that includes pedigree analyses, physical conformation assessment, and training performance.
What are the ‘Classics” in UK horseracing?
The term ‘Classics,’ used in UK horseracing, refers to a group of five prestigious races which are considered by many to be the most prestigious contests for 3-year-old thoroughbreds. The 2,000 Guineas are the Epsom Derby, The Epsom Oaks and The St. Leger Stakes. This is a major achievement for any horse. Winning the Triple Crown is even more impressive.
What are the most prestigious horse racing events in the UK?
The United Kingdom hosts many acclaimed horse-racing events that are popular around the globe. The Epsom Derby is the most prestigious event, followed by the Grand National, Aintree’s Grand National, and Royal Ascot. These events are not only a showcase of the best equine talent, but they also have a rich history and tradition. They’ve become social occasions that include distinctive dress codes.
Statistics
- British racing oversees around 1,500 fixtures annually across its 59 racecourses.
- There are over 8,000 active racehorse owners in the UK, ranging from royals to common citizens.
- The prize money for the Epsom Derby stands at approximately £1.5 million, with the winner taking home a substantial portion of this sum.
- The National Hunt racing season in the UK sees approximately 1,000 races with hurdles or fences each year.
- Approximately 6 million people attend horse racing events in the UK each year, making it the second most popular spectator sport in the country.
- Horse racing contributes an estimated £3.7 billion to the UK economy directly and indirectly each year.
External Links
racingpost.com
racingtv.com
thejockeyclub.co.uk
thejockeyclub.co.uk
britishhorseracingmuseum.org.uk
betfair.com
How To
How to Follow Horse Racing Season Calendars in the UK
The UK racing calendar is based on the dates of major festivals and races that are announced usually at the end the previous season. The main flat racing season lasts from March to November. While the main jump racing season is from November through April. Both have their own major fixtures. Subscribe to a racing publication, follow a racing organisation on social media, or use an online calendar. It will help you not to miss any of the key events on the UK racing calendar.
Did you miss our previous article…
https://www.sportingexcitement.com/horse-racing/exciting-chaser-banbridge-a-must-win-bet-at-5-1-for-the-ryanair-says-templegate/
