The show goes on! Chepstow Racecourse has been given the green light after a second inspection, meaning racing will proceed today. But the drama isn’t over yet, as Fairyhouse faces a crucial inspection at 10:00 AM due to frosty conditions. Let’s dive into the details!
At Chepstow, despite temperatures plummeting to as low as -3°C overnight, the track passed its second inspection. The initial check at 8:00 AM revealed some frozen patches, but officials were satisfied with the conditions after a follow-up inspection an hour later. The going is currently good to soft, good in places on the chase track, and soft, good to soft in places on the hurdles course. The first race is scheduled for 12:24 PM, with exciting debutants Le Frimeur and Lasko Des Obeaux, both trained by Harry Derham, expected to make an appearance. Derham’s recent success at Warwick with Cristal D’Estruval adds to the anticipation. The forecast predicts temperatures around 5°C during the races.
But here’s where it gets controversial… Fairyhouse is in a precarious situation. After a first inspection at 7:30 AM, another is scheduled for 10:00 AM due to the overnight freeze, which also saw temperatures drop to -3°C. Brendan Sheridan, the IHRB clerk of the course, reported that the track was initially unfit for racing, with several frozen areas on the chase track. The ground remains heavy, and officials are working hard to ensure the fixture can go ahead.
And this is the part most people miss… Fortunately, there are no reported issues at the other jumps fixtures scheduled for Friday at Ascot or Catterick. It is important to note the impact weather can have on the racing schedule.
What do you think? Will Fairyhouse manage to thaw out in time for racing? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Are you excited about the debut of the new horses at Chepstow? Let us know!