Behind closed doors at Navan today

The new reality dawned at Navan today with racing going ahead 'behind closed doors' to staisfy the current health and safety demands linked to the corona virus.

Strict regulations were explained before access was granted.

It was almost eerily silent at the Proudstown Park venue around 1.40pm this afternoon as the 17 runners left the parade ring for the two-mile start at the entrance to the home straight.

The traditional miaden hurdle got the action underway with no paying customers (spectators), no on-track betting and
 catering facilities either.

The era of 'behind closed doors' racing started last night at Dundalk with the action on the flat and the first winner there 
was a Meath-trained runner for Sheila Lavery when Danz Gift took the five-furlong contest.

Roll on some 20 hours later and Meath jockey Robbie Power partnered Lynwood Gold - the first winner at Navan for another female trainer, this time it was a woman with strong Meath connections also - Jessice Harrington.

FINISH OF FIRST RACE AT NAVAN TODAY 

 

Today at Navan there was the customary race commentary over the public address, but no cheering the winner home despite the fact that the opener was thriller with Power prevailing by a short head from the Paul Townend-partnered runner-up (10/11 favourite) from the all-conquering Willie Mullins team. 

All the pre and post-race preliminaries were observed, there was a presentation to the winning connections after
each race and off-course betting enabled a SP calculation.

The action was televised on the usual racing channel so the regulars were catered for, although they couldn't attend.

How long this arrangement will be in place is one of the many issues discussed by the people at Navan today.

The people, trainers, jockeys and other staff - employees' and employers'

Challenging times for everyone in the short-term only - hopefully!

THE SCENE AT NAVAN BEFORE THE FIRST RACE