Good Friday racing moves closer as applications invited for 2014
Last updated on .From the section Horse Racing
Racing could take place on Good Friday next year after the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) invited applications from racecourses to stage fixtures.
Good Friday is traditionally one of the few racing-free days in the calendar.
Applications will be assessed by the BHA against a number of key criteria, including prize-money commitment and forecast attendances.
But no decision will be made until the authority's next board meeting at the end of the month.
Chief executive Paul Bittar said his organisation is mindful of the "historical sensitivities" associated with any proposed racing on Good Friday.
But he added it is "a significant leisure day, so we are keen to fully assess the opportunity for racing".
The BHA said further discussions will be held with stakeholders, the betting industry and other affected parties in the coming weeks.
Any meetings held on Good Friday would not be additional fixtures on the calendar.
