Delly Innes, manager of Scottish Racing, said, “As Scottish racecourses continue to race behind closed doors, this financial support from the government is not only very welcome, but absolutely vital for everyone in our sport. We’re delighted that the Scottish government has recognised the importance of the nation’s second most popular sport and the potentially devastating financial implications the pandemic has had on the industry north of the border. As a group, we are all very grateful to the Government Ministers and officials we have worked with for their support for horse racing in Scotland and we will continue to work closely with them to return crowds to racecourses as soon as possible.”

Scottish Sports Minister Joe Fitzpatrick said, “I am pleased to announce this substantial funding package, which will help to ensure those sports which have been worst affected by the loss of ticket revenue during the pandemic are able to bridge the gap in revenue until spectators are able to return safely to sports events in larger numbers.

“While restrictions on supporters at events have been vital in stopping the spread of the virus and saving lives, there can be no doubt that they have created real hardships for many sports clubs. These clubs are at the heart of our communities and, without urgent financial support, the survival of some could be in question.”

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Nick Rust, chief executive of the BHA, said, “I am very pleased that Scottish racing is returning safely from next Monday at Ayr racecourse, ensuring that our truly nationwide sport can resume in line with the protocols which have been working well since our resumption at Newcastle on June 1. It is a sign of horse racing’s preparedness that we are the first major sport to return in Scotland as the recovery from COVID-19 continues. We are extremely grateful for the support of the Scottish government in enabling this risk-managed return.”

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