Beverley racecourse in Yorkshire was forced to abandon its Monday evening meeting after three races when stewards discovered a significant hole in the track near the starting stalls for seven-furlong races. The issue, described as affecting stalls three and four, led to immediate cancellation, and punters were told to leave the venue.
Stewards Investigation and Decision
Several jockeys raised concerns about the ground condition at the start area. Stewards interviewed riders PJ McDonald, Barry McHugh, and Cieren Fallon, trainers Ruth Carr, Nigel Tinkler, and Lawrence Mullaney, the clerk of the course, and the veterinary officer. Their report stated: "The inspection confirmed that unsuitable ground had been identified underneath the starting stalls and on the racing line. Having considered the evidence, the Stewards ordered racing to be abandoned."
Similar Issues at Other Courses
Beverley becomes the third UK racecourse to face track problems this year. Haydock has not raced since May after an elbow-deep hole appeared during its Temple Stakes meeting. Cheltenham's Festival Trials Day in January was disrupted by a hole in the straight, leading to cancellations for repairs.
Reaction and Impact
Racing TV presenter Chris Dixon said: "That hole in the track which is right at the stalls position for the 7f races is significant and nothing can be done about it in the short term." Pundit Adele Mulrennan added: "They can't move the stalls because of the fence. They have a gap to get in for each start and you have the fact there is still a big hole there. It's lucky they've found it because it's quite a big hole. It goes from as wide as two stalls. It's stall three and stall four that it's affecting. It's just disappointing."
Compensation for Owners and Racegoers
Beverley announced compensatory payments for owners of horses scheduled to run in the final three races, and complimentary tickets for racegoers to the season finale on September 22.
