The Abandoned Racetrack in Great Britain May Return to Racing: What We Know.

Possible Revival of Racing at the Forgotten Racetrack

According to The Sun: The forgotten racetrack in Towcester, which closed its doors in 2019, may once again become a venue for racing, said its new manager:

“Don’t rule out that option.”

This racetrack in Northampton became famous after AP McCoy achieved his 4,000th victory here in 2013. Racing was held at this venue since 1876.

However, the racetrack closed after declaring bankruptcy with debts exceeding £1.3 million.

Towcester is also known as 'home for slow horses' due to its unusual layout. In recent years, dog races were held at this venue.

According to Racing Post, plans are currently underway to return racing with thoroughbreds.

Revival Plan for the Racetrack

The project manager for the revival mentioned that while adding a new venue to the busy racing schedule will be challenging, it is not ruled out.

Currently, there are plans to organize training days for the horses to help them get accustomed to the basics of racing and jumping during the National season.

It is believed that this could lead to a revival of 'point-to-point' competitions.

Richard Thomas, former manager of the Chester racetrack, reported that significant funds have been invested in Towcester.

The grandstands and drainage systems have already been repaired in preparation for the return of racehorses.

He plans to organize training days at the racetrack by the end of the year.

When asked about the possibility of returning professional racing, he said:

“Towcester has no competitions, and it will be a hard path.”

He also emphasized:

“However, the option should never be ruled out.”

“It is very important to create a professional training center, and that will be our primary focus.”

BHA manager Richard Wayman expressed his concerns about the closure of Towcester, stating:

“We mourn the closure of Towcester, a wonderful racetrack that has undoubtedly created many fond memories for numerous racing fans and participants.”

Nonetheless, the situation with Towcester is an early sign of troubling times, as the racetrack in Tipperary, Ireland, has also announced its closure.

Fortunately, preliminary negotiations suggest that racing will continue until 2026, but after that, the situation remains uncertain.

The revival of the racetrack in Towcester could be an important step towards reviving traditional racing in Great Britain. The planned training days are an attempt to prepare horses for competitions and regain the popularity of this sport. How the events will affect the future of the racetrack and the overall state of the industry remains to be hoped for, but the promise of active revival is encouraging.