By Emmanuel Roussel
PARIS, France—With the new racecourse due to open on Apr. 8 after two years out of action, France Galop conducted two test meetings at ParisLongchamp on Wednesday and Friday.
On both days, five 'fake' races featuring riding school horses and students were held to test the technical support and the equipment in conditions close to reality. The first test helped to identify and correct a few issues thanks to feedback from the operating teams.
The second test was held on Friday in front of a larger audience. Indeed, the 360 participants of the France Galop Convention, held at the track on the same morning, were drafted in to play the role of visitors, testing the new hospitality, catering and betting facilities. Exceptional circumstances were also simulated during the races. The new state-of-the-art veterinary boxes, for instance, passed the test twice during both meetings and most people seemed to enjoy their day out despite the cold, windy weather.
“The tests were conclusive,” said Olivier Delloye, managing director of France Galop. “This is a relief because you cannot be absolutely certain that everything works until you have tested it. We are very happy with our guests' responses too. When you enter a new racecourse, it takes a little time to find your bearings but when it is well designed, you quickly to grips with it all and start to enjoy the experience.”
Next Thursday, Mar. 27, professional jockeys will be on track at ParisLongchamp after racing at Saint-Cloud to test the open stretch. All horsemen and the press will also be welcome for this final test before the opening day.
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