Hi all,
Inside, you’ll find my thoughts on the low sun issue.
The specific effect of low sunlight on horse jumping hasn't been conclusively studied, but it’s widely believed to affect depth perception—especially when horses approach obstacles. Low sun can create intense shadows, which may disorient both horses and jockeys as they gauge distance. You can read more about equine vision and perception in this Equus article: The Eyes Have It.
It’s frustrating for fans to see the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) handle the issue without alternatives, as missed jumps disrupt the race's original setup and feel. Whether this is grounded in science or driven by cautious perception, the current approach leaves racegoers disappointed by a sport that’s been modified mid-event. Many believe the BHA should be exploring other options.
Solutions from Other Sports
In other sports, several strategies have proven effective at reducing glare and improving visibility:
- Scheduling Adjustments: Many sports, from golf to tennis, shift event times to avoid peak sun. Moving jump races earlier could sidestep low sun in autumn and winter.
- Shade Screens: Baseball and football stadiums sometimes use retractable screens or shaded structures to minimize glare. While costly, some form of shaded setup could potentially work at racecourses, too.
- Temporary Artificial Lighting: Though less common, some sports have used floodlights or portable lighting to counteract harsh sun shadows. This technique could be costly, but it might help on critical parts of jump courses.
- Anti-Glare Eyewear: Skiers often wear lenses to reduce glare. Anti-glare eyewear for jockeys or even similar technology for horses could help mitigate the impact of low sun.
These solutions come with challenges, including extra costs, but they prove that adapting is achievable. If other sports can innovate around low sun, British jump racing can too. Without action, jump racing risks fading out.
Look out for Friday’s Daily Punt Breeders’ Cup Preview.
All the best,
John