Horse racing chiefs secure PPE packs for jockeys and trainers so meetings can resume

Supplies of vital PPE have been sourced ahead of the planned restart of racing fixtures next week.

The special packs have face masks, gloves, coveralls, hand sanitiser, infrared thermometers, visors and goggles inside.

CHB Medical received an order from the British Horseracing Authority to assist the smooth running of meetings from June 1.

The firm is based in Cheltenham, the home of National Hunt racing.

Fixtures with contests over obstacles will resume once the Flat programme has been established.

Monday's first card since March 17, at Newcastle, has attracted 369 entries and ten races could be run.

There are 454 horses in contention to compete at Kempton on Tuesday, but only 12 runners are permitted in each race according to coronavirus guidelines.

Just like France, where racing is under way again, participants including jockeys and stalls handlers will be required to wear face masks.

Racecourses due to hold fixtures in the first seven days are set to receive the PPE by the weekend.

Dr Jerry Hill, Chief Medical Advisor at the British Horseracing Authority, said: “The level of service and attention to detail we have had from CHB Medical has been exceptional.

“They have consistently been efficient and accommodating working with a range of industry stakeholders throughout Great Britain.

“If when we receive the equipment it is as good a quality as their customer service we will be in a good position to restart racing with confidence that our participants will be protected.”

William Buick wore a face mask when he partnered unbeaten 2000 Guineas favourite Pinatubo in a racecourse gallop at Chelmsford last week.

Those attending racecourses will have to complete an online education module and go through screening beforehand.

Managing Director of CHB Global, Felicity Griffiths, said: "We’re providing flexible options for racecourses that may already have a stock of PPE or hand sanitiser, to ensure all tracks across the country are compliant with regulations on racedays.

“But it’s not just racecourses, we will be able to support trainers, owners and yard staff before they even get to the racecourse to ensure they are protected.

“Everyone involved with the sport wants to get back racing, but it’s important that it is done safely and everyone is protected – so that racing doesn’t come to a halt again after the restart.”

As well as Cheltenham, CHB Medical has offices in Edinburgh and Australia, plus warehouses in Shenzhen and Hong Kong.

A couple of years ago the firm sponsored the leading owner award at racecourse event The McCoys, won by one of the sport's biggest names JP McManus.