The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has today confirmed that the two Steeple Chases scheduled to take place at Plumpton’s fixture on Sunday 20 September have been abandoned and will be replaced by a Hurdle race and National Hunt Flat (NHF) race.

The decision to abandon the two Chases has been taken in agreement with the BHA Course Inspectorate to allow Plumpton the opportunity to concentrate their watering efforts on the Hurdle course, with the aim of providing as near to Good ground as possible.

The additional races will be a Class 4 Maiden Hurdle run over 1m 7f 195y and a Class 5 NHF race over 2m 1f 169y.

Marcus Waters, Clerk of the Course at Plumpton, said:

“After what has been an exceptionally hot and dry summer, we are facing limited water resources and have therefore taken the decision to stage an all-Hurdle card on Sunday 20 September.

“By doing this, we can concentrate our available irrigation on the Hurdle course and give ourselves the best opportunity to produce consistent and suitable ground conditions. The welfare of the horses is always our priority, and we believe this is the most responsible approach in the current conditions.

“We appreciate that changes to the programme are never ideal and would like to thank the BHA for their support and flexibility in helping us to make the decision.”