Scottish Grand National Festival delayed due to medical emergency as ambulance deployed

The racing on the opening day of the Scottish Festival was halted due to a medical emergency involving a spectator. Today is officially 'Ladies Day' at Ayr Racecourse, and the action got underway at 1.30pm.

However, before the Mares' Maiden Hurdle at 2.05pm, it was announced that proceedings had been halted due to an incident. reported that the runners and riders were in place ready to go, but were being held back while an ambulance and medical staff attended the scene. Eventually, the race got going considerably later that planned, with 100/30 shot Roxanne taking victory.

Racing TV host Gordon Brown explained to viewers: "The paramedics are currently attending to someone. Let's hope we get a positive outcome.

"It has been dealt with very quickly but we know no more than that. But due to that medical emergency there will be a slight delay to our second race of the day."

Festival organisers are yet to release an update on the condition of the racegoer. The two-day event culminates on Saturday, with the main event, the Scottish Grand National, .

The festival had got underway with the Slater Menswear Handicap Hurdle, won by Wilful at 9/2. Billy Boi Blue (12/1) then romped home in the Thistle Cabs Handicap Hurdle at 2.40pm.

Ayr Racecourse can accommodate 18,049 people. Today's attendance is yet to be confirmed, but tickets have been sold out for day two. Chosen Witness, owned by Willie Mullins, is among the favourites.

The event comes just a week after the Grand National at Aintree. That was , Nick Rockett, which was ridden by his son Patrick.