Cheltenham gets green light, Naas Sunday for check

This afternoon’s meeting at Cheltenham goes ahead after the track passed a second inspection.

Clerk of the course Simon Claisse called an initial precautionary check for 10am due to concerns about the track freezing once the frost covers were removed.

The Prestbury Park venue failed that first check but officials were keen to give the meeting every chance, taking a further look at 11.30am.

That check proved positive and the fixture, which is due to feature leading novice chaser Punchestowns among others, has been given the thumbs up.

Spokesman Andy Clifton said: “The track has passed the second inspection and we are definitely racing.

“Conditions have improved a lot in the last hour and we are fine to race. The ground is soft, heavy in places.”

Meanwhile officials at Naas have called a 10am inspection for tomorrow ahead of Sunday's meeting after the track was found to be unraceable due to snow yesterday.