A pause was inevitable but the most important thing now is to see a route back

The shutdown of racing last March in the midst of the peak months of the season was a blow for all involved within point-to-point racing.

However, through the dedication and perseverance of the sector's stakeholders, a successful and – most importantly – safe enhanced autumn campaign proved to be crucial in negating the full effect of last spring's cancellation.

Wednesday's announcement that action between the flags has been suspended with immediate effect could prove to be the knockout blow for many if the sport cannot resume in the near future.