Canberra Racing has taken its first step towards allowing the general public back on-course, opening Thoroughbred Park's gates to crowds of nearly 400 patrons.
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Racehorse owners, members and sponsors will be welcomed back for the first time since March at Canberra Racing's next meet on July 24. Patrons will be spread across four different areas to adhere to COVID-19 restrictions.
Thoroughbred Park has capacity for 100 people in each of the Silks Room, Black Opal Room and marquee, while the Rich Reward Room can have 66 spectators.
There will be two access points for the two function areas, plus patrons will need to sign in and have their temperature checked on arrival.
Bookings will need to be submitted by the Wednesday prior to the meet, the same day as horse acceptances.
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Canberra Racing boss Andrew Clark is looking forward to having crowds return to Thoroughbred Park and says their safety is the club's first priority.
"It's been fantastic to keep racing over the whole time. It's been an excellent outcome to do that, but we need to get crowds back on track to ensure the long term future in the sport," Clark said.
"It's a good step towards the normal world again.
"We want them to have a good day but a safe one as well. We're going to do everything possible to do that and not put the community or industry at risk."
Lucie Bertoldo
Lucie Bertoldo is a sports reporter for the Canberra Times.
Lucie Bertoldo is a sports reporter for the Canberra Times.
