Fans blast ‘absolute shambles’ at Chelmsford after ‘disgraceful’ stalls blunder

HORSERACING fans were left irate after the final race at Chelmsford on Saturday was VOIDED because the starting stalls weren’t removed from the track.

The 20:30 at the Chelmsford City Racecourse featured nine runners vying for a £13,085 prize pot. 

4

4

4

The race started with no issue and looked set to conclude without any trouble, just as the previous eight had earlier in the day. 

But, for some reason, the starting stalls remained on the track as the pack approached the final straight, with the attached tractor somehow failing to remove them.

And in worrying scenes, race officials were forced to run on the track and wave hazard flags as the horses thundered towards the final straight. 

Thankfully, the jockeys managed to slow down their horses and no one was harmed. 

After becoming aware of the issue, one of Racing TV’s two-man commentary team said: “The stalls are still on the tracks here.

“So I think we’re going to have a bit of an issue here. 

THE SUN RACING MEMBERS ENCLOSURE

The only place to get Templegate’s tips first – and at the best prices – is by joining Sun Racing’s brilliant Members Enclosure.

Sign up now for just £1* to be part of racing’s best winning team and get…

• Four free racing tickets, four times a year – worth £300
• Templegate’s daily tips at the BEST prices before anyone else
• Tomorrow’s copy of The Favourite at 9pm today
• Exclusive insights from top trainer Ben Pauling
• VIP competitions from Racing Breaks each month
• New customer offer with Coral

Become a member today for just £1*

*For the first month then £3 per month thereafter.

SIGN UP NOW

18+ Ts and Cs apply. First month membership £1, then £3 per month unless you cancel at least 7 days before your next billing date. For more information contact help@thesun.co.uk

“They’re going to have to come to a halt here, somewhere, because the starling stalls are still on the track. 

“And this is going to be a stopped race.

BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS

“And there’s not much room here for the runners. “

His co-commentator said: “Oh dear, oh dear.

“They’ve had to call this a stopped race because the stalls were still on the track. 

“What a sorry end that is. 

“And well done to all jockeys being able to pull up their mounts, particularly as they were beginning to quicken going into the home straight in the best race of the night.”

Racing fans couldn’t believe their eyes wih some calling for Chelmsford to be stripped of holding races.

One added: “Imagine backing the cruising, orange and black horse and it getting voided cos of this.”

And another said: “Absolutely shocking they got this far around.

“Disgraceful from all staff involved at Chelmsford!”

One remarked: “Disgraceful, dangerous, embarrassing. Beyond drama.”

Another chimed in: “Add that to the list of shambolic events in British racing this week.”

FREE BETS – GET THE BEST SIGN UP DEALS AND RACING OFFERS

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. You should be aware brands pay fees to appear in the highest placements on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org.

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

• Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
• Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
• Never chases their losses
• Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
• Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
• Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.