For just the second time in its history, Newmarket has closed its watered gallops next to the Rowley Mile. The dry spell in the region has forced Jockey Club Estates to prioritise irrigation in other areas. Meanwhile, Venetian Sun‘s season has ended early, with an injury ruling her out of the remainder of the 2026 campaign.
Here is today’s racing news round-up heading into the midweek.
Newmarket’s watered gallop closed
Trainers will be able to utilise the watered gallop in Newmarket on Wednesday before it closes for the foreseeable future. With a lack of rain in the area, the gallop, which imitates rain-softened ground next to the Rowley Mile, cannot be sustained, Irrigation will be prioritised elsewhere, notably on the July Course, where racing continues for the next month, and the Rowley Mile itself, which resumes racing on September 19th. It is just the second time in history that the watered gallop has been closed due to the weather. (Racing Post)
Venetian Sun out for the season
Karl Burke’s star sprinter Venetian Sun is out for the remainder of the flat season. The two-time Group 1 winner was a game victor of the Commonwealth Cup for her second top level prize earlier this season. She then added a runer-up effort in the July Cup at Newmarket. However, hopes of a third Group have been dashed after her trainer ruled her out for the campaign. As to whether this could cut her career short, Burke said: “she will have the next six or seven months on the easy list and then be reassessed from there.” (The Sun)
Rossa Ryan sees ban reduced on appeal
Rossa Ryan’s 28-day ban has been significantly reduced on appeal to the British Horseracing Authority (BHA). Ryan was given a lengthy ban for failing to ride out a finish, which appeared to cost he and Thunder Home victory at Sandown. The stewards took a dim view originally, but a much reduced sentence has since been applied. The reduction means Ryan will now be free to ride at York’s Ebor meeting. (Thoroughbred Daily News)
Wetherby chief backs Racecourse Association after Jockey Club departure
Wetherby Racecourse’s chief executive Jonjo Sanderson has backed the Racecourse Association (RCA) after the Jockey Club announced its departure from the organisation. The 15 courses within the Jockey Club’s wing will go independent from the RCA in 2027. However, Sanderson rallied against the Jockey Club’s reasons for parting. He suggested that “the services that the RCA provides are invaluable,” as the dispute is set to continue. (Racing Post)
Estrange out of Yorkshire Oaks
Among the more surprising defections for York’s Ebor meeting was Estrange’s absence from the Yorkshire Oaks. The five-year-old was second in the race last year, but has become a Group 1 winner in 2026. However, the anticipated clash between Ombudsman and Constitution River is firmly on in the Juddmonte International, though Calandagan was removed from the race. Diamond Necklace also features in the entries for the 1m2f showpiece, while Christmas Day, the Epsom Derby hero, may contest the Great Voltigeur Stakes for three-year-olds. (Sporting Life)