Fakenham 'very sorry' after fixture abandoned after one race due to jockey concerns over safety

Racing was called off at Fakenham due to safety concerns after reports of horses slipping during the opening race. 

Three horses were unseated during the 2m novice hurdle including Ronnies Rules, who slipped heading into the third flight and dislodged Ben Sutton.

The jockey was treated on the track before walking into an ambulance and an inspection of the course was called before the second race at 2.35pm.

While runners for the 2m4f maiden hurdle entered the paddock, Harry Cobden, James Bowen, Stuart Edmunds and James Owen were among those to inspect the track as sand was spread on the bends. Despite the efforts of Fakenham's ground staff, the meeting was abandoned shortly after 3pm. 

Clerk of the course David Hunter told Racing TV. "Despite every possible way of making sure the ground was good and safe, some jockeys reported their horses had slipped and were concerned about that.

"There was a very extensive inquiry and at the end of it, the jockeys didn't have the confidence it was going to be safe in case any of them subsequently had a nasty fall. One has to take their view very much into account and it is just desperate. 

"We'd done everything to make sure the meeting was fit for purpose and we genuinely thought it was. We'll be working with the BHA to make sure we have the full confidence of everyone that Fakenham is fine for racing. No one is more gutted than myself and the hardworking team of staff here. I'm very sorry." 

The sole race to take place was won by hurdles debutant Charging Thunder, who scored readily for Cobden and Owen. The final hurdle on the home straight was also omitted due to low sun.

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