Racetracks in England encouraged the populace to attend meets July 19, the day lockdown restrictions eased nationwide. The last time racecourses were able to do that was in March 2020. In addition to eliminating capacity restrictions, U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed social distancing measures would be shelved as well as vaccination proof.
“We’re really looking forward to it, it’s very much been Cartmel-light up until now,” said Anthea Leigh, clerk of the course. “We haven’t had time to properly build up the site as it would be in a normal year, but we’re open for walk-ups, the forecast is fantastic and we’re all about fresh air and picnics and enjoying the racing with your family.”
The funfair and restaurants will return by the August meeting, according to Racing Post.
Beverley chief executive Sally Iggulden is optimistic of a big turnout. “It’ll be interesting to see what type of crowd we get,” she said. “Our pre-sale figures are good and in line with 2019 with a crowd of about 4,000, but with the nice weather we’re planning for a bigger crowd and people walking up on the day.”
Iggulden suggests people wear face masks indoors, but it’s not mandatory.
“As a team we’ve almost forgotten what it’s like to have the big days, I’ve been here 21 years and I’m trying to remember what it was like when we had a capacity crowd.”
The day’s other meeting in England takes place at Windsor.
“There’s plenty to see, our theme for the evening is ‘rum n reggae’ so there will be lots of cocktails and a band after racing. We’re really looking forward to it,” said Sophie Candy, clerk of the course.
On-course bookmakers are also happy for the return of crowds.
