North Island racing options for next week

Covid restrictions permitting, it’s planned to run two North Island meetings next week, at both Auckland and Cambridge.

Cambridge is scheduled to have a meeting on Thursday September 23, with Auckland the next day, Friday September 24. Nominations for both meetings will initially close 11am Monday, September 21. However, nominations will be extended to provide the flexibility to deal with whatever circumstances prevail, in terms of Alert Levels and horse numbers at each meeting.

Withdrawals for Cambridge and Auckland will be 10am and 12pm Tuesday, respectively. These too may be subject to change, beyond those prescribed times.

Auckland is set to go to Alert Level Three at midnight on Tuesday (Sept 21), with the Government making an update on Monday September 20.

If the Alert Levels drop, as expected, racing can resume at Alexandra Park, albeit under strict Covid protocols including compulsory scanning in, mask wearing, social distancing, no crowds or owners, and only essential staff on course.

It's hoped there will be enough horses to stage both race meetings next week. There may be fewer number races at each meeting.

If there are only enough horses for one meeting Auckland TC would get the preference on Friday September 24.

If one meeting had to be cancelled additional races could be added to the other meeting.

If Auckland remains in Level 4 Cambridge will race on Thursday, with the Auckland meeting shifting to the following week.

Drivers should also note that they are required to wear their masks going onto the track and off the track. They do not have to wear them during the race but can if they prefer.