Welsh National rescheduled after Chepstow abandonment

The Coral Welsh National will be run on Saturday, January 6, following Chepstow’s abandonment on Wednesday.

Following 60mm of precipitation in the last 48 hours, including 40mm of rain and some snow overnight, the track at Chepstow Racecourse is waterlogged which has led to the re-staging.

Arena Racing Company (ARC) and the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) will also move Newcastle Racecourse’s fixture from Saturday 6 January to Sunday 7 January in order to Wales’ premier meeting.

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Keith Ottesen, Clerk of the Course at Chepstow Racecourse, said: “With 60mm of rain in the last 48 hours, including 40mm overnight, the track was simply unraceable. While it is frustrating we are pleased to be able to work swiftly to rearrange the day. The original 75 entries for the Coral Welsh Grand National stand and entries for all other races reopen with entries now closing on 1 January.”

ARC and ITV are currently discussing options for the Coral Welsh Grand National, and any supporting races, to be shown on ITV Racing on Saturday 6 January, alongside racing from Sandown and Wincanton.

Phil Bell, Executive Director of Chepstow Racecourse said: “The Coral Welsh Grand National is one of the biggest jump races of the year, and a feature of Welsh sporting calendar. For all of our customers, and our sponsor Coral, it is sad to be in this situation but the amount of rain and snow simply exceeded all expectations.

“However, while we have been defeated by the weather in the short term, the team at Chepstow is now looking forward to welcoming everyone back on Saturday 6 January for a great day of sporting action. We’d like to thank all involved, including the British Horseracing Authority, Horserace Betting Levy Board, ITV and our sponsors Coral for facilitating the change in date.”