The way we view it is that we are an industry and this is our workplace.
- Paul Eriksson
Tasmanian racing has so far avoided the coronavirus shutdown that has hit most major sports and there is hope it can continue.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Tasracing chief executive Paul Eriksson said on Monday that racing's controlling body would continue to be guided by the State Government.
"The way we view it is that we are an industry and this is our workplace," Eriksson said.
"Obviously the place of work does vary (from racetracks and training facilities to private stables).
"If it wasn't a workplace, then a number of our bigger stables with a large number of employees couldn't operate."
Eriksson said the decision at the weekend to restrict Tasmanian race fields to 10 runners was not linked to the government's 10-person limit on public gatherings.
Therefore the government's subsequent decision to reduce that limit to two was not relevant.
"We made that decision after some discussions with the State Government," he said.
"Like all decisions, it was aimed at managing the spread of the virus."
Eriksson said that nothing had changed since then.
"We are seeking clarity as to the government's position but that's it," he said.
Race meetings remain closed to the public, with only participants and essential officials and staff allowed to attend.
Starting with the gallops meeting at Mowbray on Saturday, everyone entering a racetrack has been temperature-tested by qualified medical staff and questioned about their health and recent travel movements.
Tasmania has some major meetings coming up, with all three codes due to race on Good Friday and Launceston's biggest harness event, the Easter Cup, the following night.
- Mystic Journey resting until spring - Page 24