BHA to implement non-standard race times on permanent basis
Horseracing body cites benefits of flexibility and a lack of clashes following successful February trial
The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has confirmed non-standard race times will be introduced permanently from 1 October in conjunction with Horse Racing Ireland (HRI).
Non-standard race times were trialled in February amid Covid-19 disruption after discussions between governing bodies, broadcasters and racecourses.
The implementation of non-standard race times, i.e. races not programmed on the standard five-minute marks, will allow for more flexibility and a reduction in delays, according to the BHA.
Non-standard race times will be used when there are four or more fixtures across Britain and Ireland in one session, or in the period between afternoon and evening racing.
However, races that are covered by ITV will remain standardised when possible.
Richard Wayman, BHA chief operating officer, said February’s trial had resulted in “considerable benefits” to customers.
Wayman said: “The trial of non-standard times in February resulted in a reduced number of race clashes and delays on busy afternoons, which was well received by those watching, broadcasting and betting on the sport.
“This also had a positive impact on racing’s finances and following further collaboration with our colleagues in Ireland and discussions with the betting industry, we believe bringing in non-standard times on a permanent basis would continue to deliver considerable benefits to our customers,” he added.
Wayman conceded that despite the introduction of non-standard times, clashes could still occur.
He continued: “We appreciate the efforts of all those involved in attempting to ensure that races go off on time and there will, of course, still be occasions when unavoidable clashes and delays occur. However, this decision will help to minimise the frequency of such occurrences and ultimately allow us to schedule races in the best possible way for followers of the sport.”