It is reliably learnt that several horses at Hastings Stables are suffering from high fever. They are being monitored round the clock to determine whether the deadly 'Equine Influenza' has made its way to this centre after hitting Pune and Delhi. The grapevine has it that a few outstation horses may have been responsible for this outbreak of fever at Hastings. As EI is highly contagious, the horses suffering from fever have been segregated.

The Stewards have called an emergency meeting on Sunday to take stock of the situation. A clearer picture of the situation will emerge on Sunday. If the worst is confirmed, it could delay the commencement of the Winter meet scheduled for November 9.

One sincerely hopes that it is merely fever and no more. The local racing fraternity is keeping its fingers crossed.