The ongoing faces in Exeter have been called off over concerns due to the effect of excessive rainfall on the path of the track.

The event, which had already seen three races, had to be cancelled as organizers and participants alike voiced their concern over the nature of the track, especially towards the bottom bend, which has become logged with rain.

The decision to cancel the race was first prompted by a weather forecast which gave signs of a heavy downpour. Although an early inspection was conducted in the morning of the race and everything seemed okay enough for the riders to take part in.

However, as time went on, conditions proved too strong and unstable for riders to continue racing in and another inspection had to be conducted after the third race. This was after everyone involved, especially the jockeys were very concerned about the condition of the track. Champion racer, Richard Johnson was also among the jockey and expressed his fears concerning the tracks.

With the end of the third race, everyone gathered in the Stewards’ room where the chief steward, Simon Cowley expressed the general concern and announced the decision to “abandon the meeting on the grounds of safety.

“This was as a result of the part of the track that was now filled with water, which would be difficult for horses to run on. For Johnson, calling of the rest of the races is a very good idea, giving the condition of a part of the track, which he describes as a “shame”. Joe Tizzard also expressed his support for the decision to call the race off, seeing it in the best interest of the races and the horses who would be put at risk if they venture out under the conditions.

Whether the race would continue is another matter, but if the rains can go down and the waterlogged area loses some of its content, then the race might just be back on although another inspection would be held by tomorrow morning.

Written by: Leon Osamor