The one and half lost meetings in two days in South Africa, yesterday at Scottsville and today in the Cape, has dealt a massive dent in the economy of racing as the industry struggles for survival amidst tough economic and trading conditions, brought about by Covid and racings own implosion.

The question on everyone's lips at present is how can a relatively light rainfall cause an abandonment?

The Scottsville meeting was abandoned after just 5 mm of rain yesterday and it was cause of concern for many in the industry that is struggling to survive.

Raf Sheik, racing executive of Gold Circle made the following comment, "After the running of Race 5, the Riders raised concerns regarding certain inconsistencies on the track, particularly between the 1100m to 800m. Accordingly, a track inspection was conducted during which time it was established that, the normal racing line was unsuitable to race. Consequently, it was agreed between the Trainer, Rider, Operator and Regulator Representatives that the rail from approximately the 1100m to the 800m would be moved out 4 metres. This would enable the remaining Races to be run on unused ground.

After the running of Race 6, the Riders raised further concerns regarding the condition of the track. Consequently, a protest was lodged. In this regard, it was established that notwithstanding the movement of the rail after Race 5, this unused ground raced on was equally inconsistent. Accordingly, after consulting with the Race Meeting Representative, Trainer Representative, the Stewards and the Veterinary Surgeon, the decision was taken to abandon the remainder of the race meeting. "

The concern lies in the fact that no one seems to have taken responsibility for the track and heads need to roll after this debacle, a second time in a short period of time that this track has come up for debate after inconsistencies. If Gold Circle cannot get their house in order with respect to this track especially after only 5 mm of rain, what will happen when we have proper rain on our tracks. We cannot afford have meetings abandoned during this time. Racing needs accountability and the racing public need answers. If this is incompetence then someone needs to pay the price.