New Adjustments and Dates Set to Enhance Seasonal Competitions
- Hampton Novices’ Chase moved to Windsor on Sunday, 19 January
- Ayr to host an extra event on Monday, 20 January
- More races allowed, up to eight per Jump event
The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has changed the Jump racing schedule after the recent bad weather caused many events to be cancelled. These adjustments aim to provide more opportunities for horses and trainers.
Hampton Novices’ Chase Moves to Windsor
The Grade 2 Hampton Novices’ Chase will now take place at Windsor on Sunday, 19 January, with a prize of £50,000. Entries will close at noon on Wednesday, 15 January, and final declarations will be made on Friday, 17 January alongside the rest of the Windsor racecard.
Extra Event Scheduled at Ayr
A new event will be held at Ayr on Monday, 20 January. Entries for this fixture will also close at noon on Wednesday, 15 January, with final declarations due on Saturday, 18 January.
Up to Eight Races Allowed at Jump Events
New training equipment is helping horses perform better while staying safe. For example:Technology is To compensate for lost opportunities, Jump racecourses can host up to eight races per fixture (instead of the usual seven in winter). This change applies to events scheduled through Sunday, 16 February.
This could mean:
- Two extra races on a six-race card.
- One extra race on a seven-race card.
Depending on turf conditions, racecourses can decide whether to take advantage of this option. Courses that choose to add races will show the updated number after entries close.
Support from Stakeholders
The BHA thanked racecourses, including Ayr and Windsor, and the Horserace Betting Levy Board for their help in implementing these changes and contributing to prize funds.
BHA Statement
Tom Byrne, Head of Racing and Betting at the BHA, explained the decisions:
“We acted quickly to minimise the impact of last week’s cancellations on Jump racing during this important season.
“Rescheduling the Hampton Novices’ Chase ensures top-level novice chasers can compete at the right time before their next big race opportunity in February at Ascot.
“Adding an extra fixture in the north and allowing more races per event should help meet the needs of trainers and owners. We’ll also continue to fill any gaps by adding extra races where necessary.”
These changes aim to keep the Jump season on track despite the recent disruptions.
