July Date Missed For Declarations Switch

Hopes that 48-hour declarations for all races on the Flat in Britain would come into effect from July 1 have been dashed.

The British Horseracing Board agreed in principle in April to adopt a two-day declaration system, subject to further discussions between the Horsemen's Group and the racecourses.

The beginning of July was pencilled in as the provisional start date but that has now been missed, although talks remain on-going.

'Discussions have continued and the two sides appear to be very close to a deal,' said BHB communications manager Will Lambe. 'But the owners will need to go back to their council, and the trainers to theirs.

'It appears the July 1 deadline has been missed but that's not to say it can't be another date in July.

'BHB's position has been that since the changes were agreed in principle in April, we have made the necessary preparations in terms of advertising in the Racing Calendar and things like that.

'It is not the case we have waited for a deal to be done until we get cracking, once we hear it will be a case of flicking the switch and going from there.'

The Horsemen's Group is comprised of the ROA, National Trainers' Federation, Jockeys' Association and Stable Lads' Association.

? PA Sport