A dramatic incident at Newcastle racecourse on Friday afternoon has prompted an official stewards' enquiry, after a deer sprinted directly in front of the competing field during a live race.
Race Interrupted by Sudden Animal Intruder
The startling event occurred during the Best Odds Guaranteed At BetMGM Novice Stakes, a one-mile, two-furlong contest. As the four runners – Level Look, Asia Force, New Bay Star, and Choir Boy – thundered down the straight, the deer made its unexpected dash across their path.
Jockeys Jason Watson, Pierre-Louis Jamin, Oliver Stammers, and Cam Hardie were in full drive, mere yards from the animal. Fortunately, the deer was moving at pace and managed to clear the track without causing a collision, allowing the race to conclude.
Balding's Runner Wins Amidst the Chaos
Despite the major distraction, the race was won by the Andrew Balding-trained Level Look, ridden by Jason Watson. The victor finished two and three-quarter lengths ahead of the hot favourite, Asia Force.
Acting clerk of the course, Joe Gibson, confirmed that two deer spotters were positioned during the race, which lasted nearly two minutes. He explained that the spotter nearest to the incident was further along the track, and that races had been delayed in the past when deer were sighted.
"We are aware it could cause something quite serious," Gibson told Mirror Racing. "That's why we have the spotters and we are always looking at what else we can do."
History of Similar Incidents and Safety Measures
This is not an isolated event at the Gosforth Park track. In 2018, two deer ran in front of the field in a 1m4f race won by Desert Ruler, with one horse noted as being "clear when distracted by deer." Then, three years later, jockey Jason Hart had to take evasive action to avoid a four-legged intruder.
The report from the stewards' enquiry into Friday's scare stated that the deer crossed as the runners approached 2.5 furlongs out. Officials spoke with the clerk of the course, who noted that while deer spotters are positioned at known crossings, it was unusual for a deer to appear in this specific location.
The clerk assured stewards that the area would be monitored in future, and the explanation was noted. The incident has reignited discussions about track safety and wildlife management at UK racecourses.
