Storm Claudia’s fierce winds and relentless rain have cast doubt over the second day of the Cheltenham meeting scheduled for Saturday. A precautionary inspection is set for 7:30 a.m. at the racecourse ahead of the planned seven-race Paddy Power Gold Cup card.
The severe weather, which began on Friday, has persisted throughout the afternoon, exacerbating conditions on the Prestbury Park turf already strained by the day’s racing. With further rainfall expected, officials will assess the track early Saturday morning to determine if racing can proceed.
“We’ve had 12mm of rain today, adding to 7mm overnight,” said Jon Pullin, clerk of the course, speaking to Racing TV. “Racing today has opened up the track and we expect more heavy rain possibly lasting until midnight. Given the situation, it makes sense to inspect the course in the morning.”
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Pullin remains hopeful, noting, “The forecast predicts drying from 1 a.m., and once the track gets a break from rain, it starts to drain well. This inspection is precautionary. Since we managed to race today and there’s a dry window ahead, I’m optimistic we’ll be okay for tomorrow. We aim to make a decision as early as possible.”
Similarly, Navan racecourse, which is set to host the Fortria Chase and see the return of Marine National, will conduct a morning inspection due to a Status Yellow rain warning issued by Met Éireann for County Meath.
Paddy Graffin, Navan’s clerk of the course, reported: “Since our 7:30 a.m. ground update, we’ve received an additional 6mm of rain. The ground remains soft to heavy, and due to the ongoing rain warning, we’ll hold a precautionary inspection at 7:30 a.m. The track is currently fit for racing, but forecasts suggest another 10-15mm of rain may fall overnight.”
As track officials monitor evolving weather conditions, racing fans await the final go-ahead for tomorrow’s events amid uncertainty brought on by Storm Claudia.