Plumpton’s Tuesday card abandoned due to freezing temperatures; Chepstow inspection scheduled at 8am

The Peter Marsh Handicap Chase at Haydock is the main event, but the frozen ground has caused concerns. The track is currently covered in about an inch of snow and temperatures are expected to remain below freezing, with a low of -4C on Thursday night. Kirkland Tellwright, the clerk of the course, admitted that they are facing difficulties at the moment. They are uncertain about the future and are just waiting to see how things unfold. Although there is a slight thaw predicted for the weekend, Tellwright believes it may come too late.
The frost has also affected Ascot, where the Grade 1 Clarence House Chase is scheduled. El Fabiolo and Jonbon are set for a thrilling clash, but the frost has managed to penetrate the covers in certain areas of the course. Chris Stickels, the clerk of the course, explained that although they are fully covered, they are still experiencing frost in some areas. Tuesday night is expected to be relatively warmer, with temperatures possibly reaching -1C or -2C. However, they are anticipating two more cold nights on Wednesday and Thursday. The forecast for Friday night is unclear, as it is currently uncertain if temperatures will stay above freezing or drop to -2C. Stickels noted that the current forecast is quite challenging.
Stickels emphasized that the conditions for Tuesday night are crucial in determining the future of the race.