'We have to do more' - Gowran boss pleads for return of racegoers in Ireland

Eddie Scally (left), seen here making a presentation to Gordon Elliott, says racedays at Gowran Park are 'soulless'Credit: Patrick McCann (racingpost.com/photos)

Gowran Park manager Eddie Scally has pleaded with the Irish racing authorities to up their game in trying to get racegoers to return in the wake of Boris Johnson's announcement that some English tracks will be allowed to welcome up to 4,000 people from next Wednesday.

On a day of delight for English racing fans, it was one of despair for Irish racegoers as Paddy Walsh, chief executive of the Association of Irish Racecourses (Air), said that he "didn't think we'll see crowds in the first half of next year".

Scally has described racing behind closed doors as "soul-destroying" and does not think enough is being done to get racegoers back in Ireland.

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David JenningsDeputy Ireland editor

Published on 24 November 2020inNews

Last updated 19:43, 24 November 2020

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