Heavy rain has forced the cancellation of Randwick’s ten-race program on Saturday, with officials ruling the track unsafe to race on.

In the seven days leading up to race day, the venue was drenched with almost 215 millimetres of rain, including 45 millimetres overnight. The deluge pushed the track rating from a heavy 8 into the extreme heavy 10 range.

While there was early optimism the meeting might still proceed, Racing NSW chief steward Tom Moxon confirmed a final course inspection at 7:30am (AEST) ended any hopes of racing.

“We completed a track gallop just before six this morning, and the riders reported it was already as heavy as it could get,” Moxon told Sky Racing Radio. “We didn’t need any more rain – but unfortunately, it came not long after. At present, the track simply isn’t suitable for racing.”

Moxon added that significant improvement would have been required to proceed, and the day’s forecast offered no confidence of that happening.

The feature of the program, the Group 2 Missile Stakes (1200m), will now be considered for rescheduling, with Racing NSW and Australian Turf Club officials to determine a new date.

“There will no doubt be discussions to ensure the race is run,” Moxon said.

The Bureau of Meteorology predicts the wet weather will linger over Sydney until mid-next week, with the heaviest falls expected through the remainder of the weekend and into Monday.

Punters can check the latest markets and promotions for the rescheduled Missile Stakes and other upcoming feature races by visiting Australia’s top betting sites here.