RACING across the region will continue without spectators due to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic.
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The state's governing bodies for harness, thoroughbred and greyhound racing have all agreed continuing race meetings behind closed doors is in the interest of public safety for the foreseeable future.
The move comes after Rugby Australia announced all grass roots rugby, including training and trial matches, would be postponed until May.
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Local rugby league took a similar approach, also postponing all play and training until the first weekend of May.
The Tamworth Hockey Association has also postponed its activities, which has caused the cancellation of the men's masters over 40-45 state championships, which was slated for early May.
The Tamworth Touch Football Association has cancelled all junior competitions until further notice, as has Tamworth Oztag.
Meanwhile, Cycling NSW has followed suit, cancelling all cycling events until April 30, which will directly impact the Tamworth Cycle Club and it's events.
Tamworth Harness Racing Club chairwoman Julie Maughan said the measure was taken to allow the industry "to get on the front foot" and help stop the spread of Coronavirus.
"It's a blanket effect for all three racing industries and it means we are all working together for the betterment of everyone," Maughan told the Leader.
"We've got to be proactive if we want to limit the spread of this disease and limiting the amount of people who are allowed on track is the way to do that.
"At this stage, only the horses, drivers, trainers and stablehands will be allowed on course, and despite the fact we know everyone, we will still need to see their accreditation."
Maughan said the measures would mean owners would no longer be allowed on course.
"I'm not sure if that is for all three forms of racing, but it is certainly the case for us," she said.
"The meetings will become a bit like ghost meetings but unfortunately, it is what needs to be done."
Gunnedah Greyhound Racing Club president Geoff Rose echoed Maughan's sentiments saying he had "no problem with the measures".
"It will be very widespread, not even the TAB attendants will be allowed on course," Rose said.
"We have to play our part to stop the spread and if we follow all of the correct protocols, hopefully we will be back to normal before too long.
"It's going to hurt all businesses across the board, but by doing this, we are able to mitigate the impacts somewhat."
Tamworth Harness Racing Club will host its next meeting on Thursday, while Gunnedah's next greyhound race meeting will be on April 8.