Horses to race without crowds at Roma Picnics

The Roma Picnic Race Club will continue with its five race program on Saturday March 28, despite being forced to close the event to the public.

The Club announced yesterday (March 16) that it would be complying with a Federal Government directive to cancel large public events to help slow the spread of COVID-19.

Roma Picnic Race Club President, Danny Wells, said that despite that decision, the Club will proceed with a five race program that is closed to the public in order to provide support to the country racing community.

“While we are very disappointed that we won’t be able to open our gates to the public, it is very important that we continue to provide an opportunity for the races to proceed for our trainers, thoroughbred owners and their support staff,” he said.

“The outbreak of COVID-19 has put a huge strain on so many local businesses and industries and, as a race club, we feel it’s important for country racing that this event goes ahead.”

Mr Wells extended his thanks to Queensland Racing, the Roma Turf Club, the sponsors of the Roma Picnics and the many hundreds of patrons who were planning to attend the weekend for their understanding and support.

“We’ve had great support from the Roma Turf Club and we’d like to acknowledge the assistance they have provided in making this happen,” he said.

“We would also like to thank all our very generous sponsors for their support and assure them that the Roma Pincis will return in 2021 – our 120th year – bigger and better than ever.”

Media enquiries to Lisa Bertolotti on 0427 258 368.