The rise in equine flu cases among the non-thoroughbred horse population has seen the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) take action. For the foreseeable future, all hunter chases have been cancelled, including the entirety of Stratford‘s Hunter Chase evening.
That meeting was scheduled for Friday 29 May, but will not take place in 2026. Indeed, any such races scheduled at race meetings have been removed until further notice.
This comes after the BHA released an update on Monday about the disease. After a consultation with Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance (EIDS), they have announced that only horses from licensed training yards can now race in Great Britain. That ensures, hunter chasers, who often represent amateur yards, will not be permitted to run.
James Given, who is BHA Director of Equine Regulation, Safety and Welfare, stated the following on the BHA’s website:
“The news today will understandably be disappointing for many people, but levels of equine flu are higher than at any time in recent history and it’s essential that we take all necessary steps to protect the thoroughbred herd.
“These measures follow extensive engagement with independent infectious disease experts about how we further reduce the risk of exposure and ensure the continuity of racing.”
Wide-ranging consultations ensure BHA out in front of equine flu
As well as consulting with EIDS, the BHA has been active in its combatting of the disease. Rounded discussions with the Point-to-Point Authority and the Pony Racing Authority have also taken place.
Horse racing will come into the spotlight more pointedly in June. Royal Ascot takes place between Tuesday 16-Saturday 20 of next month. Any risks to the meeting are evidently being taken with the utmost concern. HM The King is likely to have participants at the event, some with a strong chance of winning.
Given went on to say that, “In addition to vaccination, this (stopping the disease) can be best achieved by preventing the mixing of racehorses with horses and ponies from premises that are not licensed by the BHA, where we have more limited information about their health and vaccination status.
“I’m encouraged by the response we have already seen from the racing community about the vital importance of maintaining the biosecurity of the thoroughbred racing herd. We continue to urge constant vigilance, especially around the movement and mixing of horses.
“Information about vaccination, infection control measures and spotting the signs of flu are available on the BHA website.”