New COVID Protocols Begin Dec. 15

[Wandering Eyes]

In accordance with the updated UK Government protocols for sports venues, the British Horse Racing Authority (BHA) issued an outline of protocols that enter effect Wednesday, Dec. 15.

“Racing must continue to do all we can to protect the health and livelihoods of our people and maintain business continuity,” said Dr. Jerry Hill, BHA's Chief Medical Adviser. “These measures are considered essential to support this objective at a time where cases of the Omicron variant of the virus are increasing exponentially and other sports are facing COVID-related fixture cancellations.

CERTIFICATION FOR ALL RACECOURSE ATTENDEES

All attendees at fixtures in England where attendance is likely to exceed 4,000 will require evidence of COVID status certification. This will apply to individuals 18 or over.

To enter the racecourse, every individual must:

Be fully vaccinated (at least two doses)

• Or have completed a negative lateral flow or PCR test before attending, ideally within the previous 12 hours or at most within the previous 48 hours
• Or be exempt based on approved medical exemption or clinical trial participation

 

CERTIFICATION FOR ENTRY TO THE WEIGHING ROOM COMPLEX

Everyone entering the Weighing Room complex will be required to present evidence of COVID status certification at all fixtures, including those where attendance is unlikely to exceed 4,000. This will apply across all British racecourses. Weighing Room personnel will be required to present evidence of vaccination, a recent negative COVID test, or proof of exemption at every fixture, regardless of attendee numbers. Entry will be refused if valid COVID status certification is not provided on arrival.

More information about the (digital) NHS COVID Pass and how to provide proof of COVID status in England, Scotland and Wales is available here.

 

FACE COVERINGS MANDATORY AT ALL TIMES IN OUTDOOR OPERATIONAL AREAS

Face coverings will be reintroduced in outdoor racing operational areas on British racecourses, including the parade and pre-parade rings, saddling and unsaddling areas, horse walks, racecourse stables, at the start and (for jockeys) it is advised they are worn during the race. Every individual working in or entering these areas, including Weighing Room personnel, officials, trainers, owners, and guests, will be required to wear a covering. In line with government guidance, face coverings will also be required in most indoor settings on course, unless food or drink is being consumed.

For more information on the BHA's procedures (updated periodically), click here.

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