It has been a long time in coming - but Carlisle Racecourse finally reopened its doors to spectators yesterday.

The first Flat meeting at the Durdar track since September 2019 coincided with the long-awaited return of racegoers since the Covid-19 shutdown.

Carlisle became the first racecourse in England to stage a race in front of spectators this year when the action got under way at 1pm.

It saw El Caballo cheered home by a crowd as Karl Burke’s charge romped to victory in the British Stallion Studs EBF Novice Stakes.

That was the first of eight races as a sense of normality returned to the sport, with spectators also back to watch meetings at Redcar, Windsor and Leicester.

The return of limited numbers of people followed the latest easing of lockdown restrictions.

Racing Post editor Tom Kerr said Carlisle had played its part in a significant day for the sport.

He said: “We’re thrilled to be welcoming punters back where they rightly belong, at British racing venues watching the action.

“Fans are the heartbeat of horse racing, the buzzing atmosphere and roar of the crowd in the big moments cannot be replaced and it’s not been the same without them.

“Everyone in the industry has been working tirelessly to keep racing going over the past 12 months, and racecourses – like many sport stadia – have taken a big financial hit from the lack of supporters in attendance.

“Aside from the racing itself, it’s great that racecourses are also now able to reopen hospitality facilities and start to drive these additional income streams.

“The impact of coronavirus on the industry – and the nation – has been hugely significant, so to have fans return at Redcar, Carlisle, Windsor and Leicester makes May 17 a monumental day for racing and sport.

“Today’s action at these venues is a huge moment that belongs to the spectators. And with the Royal Ascot less than a month away, it’s the perfect time to be getting back into the swing of things as we shape up for a sensational summer of racing.” 

Ahead of the meeting, Carlisle general manager Molly Dingwall spoke of the tireless work her team had put in to prepare for the occasion.

She said: “We’re delighted to be able to welcome back Flat racing to Carlisle after such a long absence and it’s particularly fitting that it coincides with the first day of spectators being allowed to return to racecourses.

“The pandemic has had a huge impact on sport as a whole and we’ve felt that just as keenly at Carlisle Racecourse.

“Owners, trainers and spectators have been so supportive of the course over the years, not to mention incredibly patient.

“The team here have been absolutely brilliant and have worked incredibly hard to keep the course in great condition. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back for what should be a fantastic summer of Flat racing.”