Thornton backs Chester jumps initiative
The management at the Roodee are mulling the prospect of running hurdle races around the famously tight circuit, with a schooling session planned for Monday.
Top trainer Donald McCain, who is based locally, will provide the horses for the trial, which will also be attended by a representative of the British Horseracing Authority.
Four flights of hurdles are due to be set up, with McCain’s inmates working over two miles under experienced riders.
Cheltenham Gold Cup-winner rider Thornton and his weighing room colleague Richie McGrath will be in attendance in their roles as jockeys’ safety officers.
“I think it’s a very exciting idea. I take my hat off to Chester for taking the initiative,” Thornton said.
“I suppose one of the main things to consider would be the siting of the hurdles.
“We’ll also be looking at run-out areas but Chester has always seemed like a big, wide, open space so that shouldn’t be a problem.
“The ground wouldn’t be a problem either as Chester often catches a shower, particularly this time of year which is when they are talking about racing.”
