ALL this weekend’s point-to-points have been cancelled due to concerns over the ability to enforce Covid-19 restrictions which are being observed at racemeetings.

A statement issued by the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board on Friday afternoon said: “In this very challenging and evolving environment, with increased numbers of Covid-19 cases reported over the past 24 hours, the Stewards of the Irish National Hunt Steeplechase Committee have come to the difficult decision to call off all point-to-point meetings planned for this weekend.

“Point-to-points differ in many respects from racing on the track, not least in terms of the ability to enforce a “behind closed doors” policy.

“While it had been hoped that it would be possible for fixtures to go ahead under those conditions, it is the considered opinion of the Stewards that it may not be practicable in all respects to adhere to the strict social distancing protocols required, as will be enforced for all fixtures being staged at racecourses.

“The Stewards acknowledge the great efforts which were invested by many in the hope that point-to-points could continue under strict protocols, and they wish to reassure the point-to-point community that the will and means are there to reinstate fixtures as soon as it is deemed safe to do so.”

Four point-to-points were due to take place this weekend - Durrow in Co Kilkenny today and tomorrow, Kirkistown in Co Down today, and Dromahane in Co Cork tomorrow.

The season is entering its peak period, with another 40 fixtures due to be staged between next weekend and June 1st.