Racing Victoria (RV) has provided the following update regarding Victorian thoroughbred racing in light of the announcement by the State Government that COVID restrictions will ease in regional Victoria from 11.59pm (AEDT) tonight, Monday, 9 August 2021.
Attendance
Racing Victoria (RV) has today announced that Victorian thoroughbred racing will continue to be spectator-free until at least this Thursday night, 12 August 2021.
The State Government announced today an easing of restrictions in regional Victoria from 11.59pm tonight which RV understands allows for the resumption of a limited number of spectators (maximum 300 with no more than 100 indoors) at country race meetings.
Due to the limited number of spectators, RV has determined that racing will be spectator free across all Victorian racetracks while metropolitan Melbourne remains in lockdown.
This decision has been taken in consultation with Country Racing Victoria (CRV) and the relevant Clubs, to ensure thoroughbred racing is able to continue safely.
Stable Visits
Having considered the Victorian Government’s updated COVID restrictions, including the prohibition on all visitors to homes, RV has determined that the prohibition on owners and non-essential persons attending Victorian public and private training facilities, including for trackwork, trials and jump-outs, will also remain in place until otherwise advised..
Face Masks
In line with Victorian Government guidelines, participants are reminded that face masks are compulsory at all race meetings, training centres and licensed premises at all times.
Riders are permitted to remove their masks only when on horseback and when they have exited the mounting yard on raceday.
RV Chief Executive, Giles Thompson said, “We note the announcements by the Victorian Government today regarding easing of restrictions within regional Victoria from this evening.
“Following discussions with Country Racing Victoria and our Clubs, we believe crowds racing spectator free until restrictions ease across all of Victoria is the most practical decision at this point in time.
“When we can safely welcome spectators back to the racetrack in larger numbers with sufficient notice for clubs then we will make owners and club members the immediate priority.
“I would like remind everyone within the Victorian racing industry of the critical need to continue to abide by all Government directives. In particular, if any participants or essential staff have attended an exposure site or are displaying any COVID symptoms they must get tested, isolate and contact us immediately.
“Subject to advice from your GP, I also encourage all eligible industry participants to book their COVID vaccination as soon as possible.”