June 9, 2020

Racehorse owners who were among the first spectators in Australian racing to return on track to watch live racing at Royal Randwick on Saturday have praised the experience offered by the Australian Turf Club.

All owners with runners on Saturday were invited to pre-register with the Australian Turf Club to be on course to comply with the current NSW Government Public Health Order.

The Australian Turf Club introduced a range of precautions including new thermal imaging cameras to test and monitor the body temperatures of patrons arriving on course.

Owners were also able to purchase hospitality and dining packages in the Chairman’s Club to remain at the track all afternoon.

The procedures will be in place for all Saturday meetings including this weekend at Rosehill Gardens.

Owner Deb Arnold who purchased a dining package in the Chairman’s Club at Royal Randwick last Saturday was thrilled with the Australian Turf Club’s return to racing.

She praised the COVID-19 health and safety measures implemented by the Australian Turf Club.

“The staff were extremely welcoming and the food was the best I have ever had at a day at Royal Randwick,” Ms Arnold said.

“The way in which the staff handled the COVID precautions was also top-notch – not once did I feel my health was at risk.

“It was absolutely fantastic to be back at the races even though our horse didn’t win on the day.

“I would normally go to the races two or three times a month and even though it has been great to be able to watch the races over the past months on TV we can’t wait to go back when our horse runs next.”

Owners with runners at this Saturday’s Winter Cup meeting at Rosehill Gardens will be able to attend if they pre-register with their regular Owners Email from the Australian Turf Club on Wednesday.

Each owner is also able to register one guest to attend.

Owners who do not purchase dining or hospitality packages as part of the Government Health Order are able to attend for their race and are encouraged to depart the racecourse one race after their horse has run.