Heavy going: very testing conditions are expected on Saturday

 PICTURE: John Grossick , BY TOM KERR3:46PM 17 JAN 2014 

EXTREMELY testing conditions await runners at Saturday’s big meetings at Haydock and Ascot, while Taunton’s fixture is subject to a 7.30am inspection.

Haydock and Ascot are reporting heavy going after weeks of significant rainfall, and further showers are forecast for both before racing.

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Ascot clerk of the course Chris Stickels said: “We’re heavy and have had 2mm since 8am. In the 24 hours before that we had 11mm and have had 30mm this week.

“Odd showers are expected this afternoon, but there is no significant rainfall forecast before racing – maybe 4mm.”

At Haydock, clerk of the course Kirkland Tellwright said: “The going is heavy all round.

“It’s been dry so far today but there is some rain forecast later. Tomorrow, I’m afraid, is a wetter day with 8-10mm forecast. That shouldn’t put it in danger but it will be a slog.”

Saturday’s other jumps meeting at Taunton hinges on an inspection at 7.30am on raceday morning. The track is currently raceable, but conflicting forecasts are causing officials concern.

Clerk of the course Jason Loosemore said: “The ground is heavy, soft in places and we’re dry for the remainder of today.

“However, rain is forecast from midnight. The BBC are forecasting heavy rain right through the night, but another agency, Netweather, predicts 3-4mm until 6am, then another 3-4mm through racing.

“I’d be happy enough and not unduly concerned if we got that, but it is the BBC forecast that is concerning.”

fonte: RacingPost