Jockeys Niall Madden and Brian Hayes demonstrating social distancing at Clonmel© Photo Healy Racing
Racing will not take place until at least next month after the government this afternoon extended the current COVID-19 restrictions until May 5.
An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar made the announcement in a press conference where he stressed the need to continue with the current measures in order to combat the spread of coronavirus.
Irish racing last took place behind closed doors at Clonmel on Tuesday March 24 following the announcement later that day that all sporting events even those behind closed doors were to be cancelled.
Government restrictions were further tightened three days later (for a period up to April 12) with the public asked not to travel more than 2km from home unless for certain exceptions such as travelling to work, shopping for food and medical appointments.
In all ten Irish race meetings were held behind closed doors before the clampdown, with the first of those taking place at Dundalk on March 13.
