May 2016 contents

3. 2016 17. Pony Racing Authority

4. Attendances 18. The British Racing School

5. Drinkaware Annual Roadshow 19. Awards Season

6. #TopSpot 20. Five Minutes of Fame

21. HBLB / The Jockey Club 7. #TopSpot 22. Sponsorship 8. Raceday Experience Group 23. Sponsorship 9. RCA & Racing Together 24. RaceTech 10. GBR 25. RaceTech 11. GBR 26. Medical / Badges & PASS 2016 12. GBRI 27. PASS / Technical 13. Racing to School 28. Technical 14. Walking the Courses 29. Technical 15. Racecourse in Focus 30. Diary Dates / Contributors' 16. Thoroughbred Horseracing Contact List Industries MBA Grand National 2016 The People’s Race

Aintree welcomed 152,665 racegoers to the Crabbie’s providing the distinctive Grand National atmosphere. Grand National Festival in 2016 as the Great British public flocked to Merseyside to experience the world’s A sell out 70,000 capacity watched the Grand National most famous steeplechase and a host of other top class at its new start time of 5.15pm, a move that was racing. appreciated by those gathering around the television at home with a peak audience of 10 million tuning in. Record crowds visited day one of the Festival, whilst Ladies Day again proved to be a stylish, fun and John Baker, Regional Director of the Jockey Club, unforgettable experience for racegoers with an extra commented "We're thrilled 10 million people in Britain two thousand in attendance. and hundreds of millions worldwide watched the world's greatest steeplechase at its new time of 5.15pm. There was plenty to keep racegoers entertained away from the racing on the track, with a new street food That is one of the largest viewing audiences in British enclosure, a parade of Grand National heroes, a host sport- the Crabbie's Grand National truly is the 'People's of live bands and the ever-popular Red Rum Lawn Race'.”

2012 Winner Neptune Collonges in the Parade Ring

May 2016 3 back to menu Attendances

Following the release of the Levy Board attendance Record crowds as well as the comparison for Q1 2016, the Racecourse Association largest ever Good Friday crowd at Lingfield Park’s All (RCA) would like to express encouragement around the Weather Championships Final Day helped to boost numbers. Despite the comparative decline from 2015 March figures. there are clear reasons for this drop. Easter falling early in 2016 resulted in Ascot’s A total of 772,114 people went racing during the first Countryside Day and Doncaster’s Lincoln meeting three months of the year with an average attendance of dropping into April. Had this not happened the March 2,690 at each meeting. figures would have been up on 2015.

The weather has played a major factor across January, Stephen Atkin, Chief Executive of the RCA, said: “I February and March and we have experienced 39 would like to pay tribute to the hard work put in by abandonments in comparison to 22 from the same racecourse teams during a challenging three months time period in 2015. As well as the 77% increase in lost in terms of weather. Their continued effort has ensured fixtures, the unusually wet beginning to the year has that disruption from abandonments has been minimal reduced the number of walk-up ticket sales. and as a result attendance figures have been steady.

Five of the abandonments occurred on Saturdays, “Record Aintree crowds, some much needed sunshine when we would normally expect to see the largest and the 2,000 Guineas falling in April should see this crowds from advance ticket sales as well as walk-ups. month balance out the drop in February and March. February and March 2015 also featured a number of free or reduced cost racedays, with Ascot Chase Day The figures also underline the importance of the and Sandown Park’s Imperial Cup meeting in particular customer insight project that we have been conducting drawing bumper crowds as a result. The 2016 with racecourses and Great British Racing (GBR). attendances from these meetings have been more The racecourses are now armed with an intelligence reflective of previous years. led platform to develop their marketing campaigns to continue toward our attendance target of seven million.”

May 2016 4 back to menu Drinkaware Annual Roadshow

The Drinkaware annual roadshow was held at the QE2 Centre in Westminster and provided a great opportunity for the RCA to represent the interests of racecourses with regards to promoting responsible drinking and to demonstrate the fine work that is prevalent throughout our industry.

opportunities arising due to our sport and the state of the art venues we possess across Britain.

Drinkaware’s Rommel Moseley spoke of the Drinkaware ‘Crew’ training that had been well received in the nightclub sector.

Being the first sport to partner Drinkaware, it is important that British racecourses, via the RCA, continue to innovate in this area and make the most of the partnership. As such, the ‘Crew’ training has been developed for racecourses and racecourse staff and we are delighted to confirm the first session will take place at on Wednesday 25 May.

Should you wish to discuss a local initiative that may be of interest to Drinkaware or to find out more about Drinkaware’s national campaigns for 2016, please contact Paul Swain.

The theme of the day was ‘delivering behaviour change through partnership’, with emphasis being given to how funders of Drinkaware can do more with the charity to drive change in their sector.

Key note speeches from Parliamentary Under Secretary of the Home Office Karen Bradley MP and Shadow Minister at the Home Office Lyn Brown MP demonstrated the importance of the night-time and alcohol industry to the country.

In particular, Karen Bradley MP highlighted the ‘thousands of jobs’ created as a result of the alcohol industry and how it provided people with ‘positive social situations to unwind in their leisure time.’ Both points are particularly prevalent Karen Bradley MP to racecourses, with numerous employment and social

May 2016 5 back to menu #TopSpot is back #TopSpot is back for the Summer! for the Summer! What is a #TopSpot?

A #TopSpot is a standalone initiative, We’re delighted to be bringing large or small, that enriches the back the seasonal #TopSpot racecourse brand and/or raceday competitions this summer with experience for customers. two topics for racecourses to choose from: #FlowerPower These should be captured in a and Kids go Free. photograph and sent via Twitter to @RCAShowcase with the hashtag #TopSpot.

#FlowerPower is all about embracing the spring and Things to put forward include: summer months with glorious flower displays to wow your customers. We’ve seen some fantastic floral • Innovative ideas entries in the past and hope that there are plenty more • A novelty factor to come this year. • Problem solving ability • Promotion of the racecourse brand Kids go free is one of racing’s unique selling points • Aesthetically pleasing elements and additions to versus other leisure and sporting attractions, and we the racecourse site want to see how racecourses are using this hook in an • Opportunities to further engage with racegoers innovative way to bring more families to the races for a • Educational insights into sport/equestrian welfare great day out. There is no limit to how many #TopSpots you can Both competitions will launch in the coming weeks, so submit over the course of the year, but only your best start thinking about what could be entered. three can be chosen to be put forward to the final gallery from which the #TopSpot Showcase Award will be decided in November.

May 2016 6 back to menu May 2016 7 back to menu Raceday Experience Group

The Raceday Experience Group met on Monday 18 April and was represented by:

Paul Swain (RCA, Chair) Rebecca Hamilton (Jockey Club Bill Bailey (RCA/Racegoers Club) Racecourses) Ilona Barnett (Stratford) Ashley Moon (Hamilton Park) Brian Barrass (ARC) Abigail Sawyer (Jockey Club Chris Bevan (Ascot) Racecourses) Sarah Bullen (Goodwood) Amy Swales (York) Holly Cook (RCA) Gregg Taylor (Great British Racing) David Fraser (Harrison:Fraser) Katie Wise (Jockey Club Racecourses) Fraser Garrity (Chelmsford City) Roscoe Young (Newbury) We are delighted to welcome both would also be an opportunity to save Fraser Garrity of Chelmsford City on raceday tickets for customers at Racecourse and GBR to the group on participating shops. Paul Swain added that the Raceday a fulltime basis, with representation Stratford: Ilona Barnett reported that Experience survey, as previously being shared between Rod Street, Stratford Racecourse had launched discussed by the Group, was Harriet Collins and Gregg Taylor. an SMS information service, but now prepared and ready to be Key discussions from the meeting there had been limited opportunity to disseminated. He indicated Two included: develop this due to abandonments. Circles would be contacting all racecourses in May to finalise New Initiatives Roundtable Showcase & Awards 2016 preparations. Ascot: Chris Bevan reported changes Paul Swain presented the new to the online booking system, which scoring system to the Group which Responsible Drinking better enabled customers to upgrade had been developed using feedback Paul Swain informed the Group of or enhance their raceday relevant to from racecourses over the past few training sessions, run by Drinkaware, items they placed in their basket. months. The significant changes which would see staff receive Hamilton Park: Ashley Moon stated include scoring each initiative out of accreditation in engaging with that Hamilton Park had created a ten marks, with insight/rationale and customers exposed to alcohol. He VIP bar area which was part of a value/ROI now influencing the scoring. added the first session would take significant investment in racegoer place at Newbury Racecourse on 25 facilities over the winter. In addition, The Group approved the new system May. the racecourse would be promoting and looked forward to the launch of ‘Super Saturdays’ with afternoon the Showcase & Awards 2016 in the activities followed by evening racing, coming weeks. transforming the traditional racegoer experience at evening meetings. Insight = Growth Phase Two Next Meeting Jockey Club Racecourses: Katie The Group provided positive feedback The date of the next Raceday Wise provided details of new on the Insight = Growth customer data Experience Group meeting is Tuesday mementos for winning owners, which project to date, and heard an outline 5 July at the BHA Offices, 75 High included a race replay and message of the phase two proposal which Holborn, London from 11am-1pm. from the racecourse chairman to all supported correspondence previously winning owners on the raceday in a sent by the RCA. If you wish to attend as a guest, beautifully presented digital frame. please contact Paul Swain as we Newbury: Roscoe Young stated It was agreed that racecourses should would be pleased to welcome you Newbury Racecourse had introduced inform the RCA of their preference along. a Best Dressed Shop Window between a three or one year option for Competition with local businesses, phase two, and to contact Paul Swain For all diary dates of Raceday to promote Al Shaqab Lockinge Day, for any further guidance. Experience Group events, visit our with a trip to Qatar at the prize. There calendar here.

May 2016 8 back to menu RCA & Racing Together Community Engagement Masterclass The RCA and Racing Together Community Engagement Masterclass, held at on Monday 25 April, featured representatives from more than 20 racecourses, as well as delegates from Arena Racing Company, The Jockey Club, BHA, Godolphin, Richard Fahey Racing, the Cheshire Racing Hub and a collection of charities from inside and outside the sport.

It was the perfect opportunity to share ideas and learn from each other, and in a sport where the partnership between horse and rider is so important, attendees learned more about the importance of developing partnerships both inside and outside the sport to enhance community engagement activity.

Ian Barlow, Racing Together Steering Group Chair and former RCA Chairman, began the day with a message that the Grand National Festival and 80% of them are from the a community strategy needs to be an integral part of all area. We have a responsibility to tell the stories racecourses business plans. of the Grand National to the local people and ensure that we develop a sense of place within our community. He said: “Every successful business depends on the support of its customers, employees and wider “Community engagement is crucial for the long term good stakeholders. As a sport we are no different. Our license to of the business and the future of the sport. We have a operate depends on support from stakeholders outside our responsibility to the sport to sell the stories and promote industry. the horse otherwise where would racing be?”

"Racing needs to demonstrate not just how we look after Julie Bennett, Assistant Headteacher at Maricourt School, our own - horses and people - but what we put back into provided the real life experience and stories to support the our communities and the nation. Much is already done numbers. by racecourses, yards, studs and many racing charities. But there is much more we can do to publicise existing She said: “I’m very proud of working with Aintree and activities and to leverage our capabilities to do more and to get emotional when I see what we’ve done. Children are do it more strategically and therefore to better effect.” my life and seeing what they can do in the community is a privilege and a dream which is all made possible by John Baker, Regional Director for the Jockey Club North Aintree.” West, highlighted the work that has been done at Aintree over the past 18 months as the Racing Together Beacon For the full write up of the day please visit the following Racecourse. link.

He said: “150,000 people come through the gates during

May 2016 9 back to menu Great British Racing

Her Majesty The Queen's 90th Birthday Celebrations

To celebrate Her Majesty The Queen's 90th Birthday online, the Evening Standard online, MSN and local Great British Racing worked with racecourses to send publications including the Epsom Guardian, Your Local a unified birthday message to the Queen, kicking off on Guardian and Get Surrey. A time lapse video of the Wednesday 20 April with a choregraphed crowd mosaic mosaic was also filmed and posted on social media of the Queen’s racing silks and the hashtag #HM90 at receiving more than 50,000 views. Epsom Downs. The mosaic was made up of almost 150 local volunteers who registered to take part in the In addition to the crowd mosaic, flags featuring the unique opportunity. same design were distributed to all racecourses to be used in photos to be posted across social media Racegoers at Beverley were treated to a fabulous throughout the day on 21 April. The response from display from the Queen's Yeomanry Guard. racecourses was overwhelmingly positive and the photos were creative and individual - thank you to all The final image was featured in The Times newspaper racecourses for your support. on Her Majesty’s birthday, along with the Daily Mail

Libby Britten

May 2016 10 back to menu Great British Racing QIPCO British Champions Series 2016

The 2016 QIPCO British Champions Series kicked off at Newmarket with the first two Classics of the Season – The QIPCO 2000 Guineas and the QIPCO 1000 Guineas. For some horses the start of the Series couldn’t come too soon and they featured in their own midnight race in a bid to be crowned the first Champion of the Series. The short video has had half a million views on our digital platforms and features three racehorses from the Thoroughbred Rehabilitation Centre.

If you haven’t seen the video yet it can be watched on the British Champions Series website.

To further promote the opening meeting of the Series, British Champions Series enlisted the expertise of top jockey Ryan Moore to offer racing fans an insight into what it takes to win the Rowley Mile Classics.

The course ride video has been viewed more than 100,000 times across our social media and featured on The Guardian website, Yahoo Sports and Horse and Country. Richard Johnson Stobart Jump Jockey Crowned Stobart Champion of the Month Jump Jockey

Richard Johnson was crowned Stobart Champion Jump Jockey for the first time in his career on Bet365 Jump Finale Day at Sandown Park Racecourse on Saturday 23 April.

Johnson was presented with the newly commissioned Champion Jump Jockey trophy, created by Asprey, by his good friend and one-time rival Sir Anthony McCoy, together with Andrew Tinkler, Chief Executive of sponsors Stobart Group. David Mullins has won the final Stobart Jump Jockey Ahead of Richard Johnson’s crowning, a video of the Month Award following his win in the Crabbie’s celebrating his skill, courage and dedication was Grand National and pipping rivals Richard Johnson and released set to the famous speech ‘The Man in the Sam Twiston-Davies. Arena’ voiced by McCoy. The video has been viewed more than 250,000 times. He will receive a £1,000 cash prize, a commemorative frame and a £500 donation to Down Syndrome Ireland, the charity of his choice.

The Stobart Flat Jockey of the Month Award will kick off at the end of May and run until the end of the Championship season in October.

For the latest Stobart Flat Championship standings, visit the Great British Racing website.

Libby Britten

May 2016 11 back to menu Great British Racing International

GBRI Members Club

It’s all go for the Great British Racing International (GBRI) As ever, we would like to take this opportunity to thank Members Club at the moment. all racecourses for their support of the initiative and their wonderful hospitality. In partnership with the Racecourse Association, the GBRI Members Club ensures that international owners can If you have any feedback or questions regarding the experience the best the sport has to offer when they visit Members Club please do not hesitate to contact Bobby Great Britain, in recognition of their valuable contribution to Jackson on 0207 152 0132 or British Racing. [email protected], we would be delighted to hear from you. GBRI have received a positive response with international owners from 43 different countries spanning the globe now nominated by over 50 Flat and National Hunt based Bobby Jackson trainers and bloodstock agents.

So far, members have used the GBRI Members Club to visit British racecourses on 25 racedays up and down the British Isles. On occasions, these visits have been in order to watch their horses run and one international owner used the Club in order to assist with their trip to Newmarket to watch their 2,000 Guineas runner. Members have also utilised the Club’s concierge service in order to assist with hotel bookings and organise airport transfers, as well as take up the partner offers available to them.

Looking forward, international owners have already organised trips to the Derby as well as planned Royal Ascot visits. One member has used the GBRI Members Club in order to purchase the final restaurant table available in the Royal Enclosure on Ladies’ Day for over £6,000.

May 2016 12 back to menu Racing to School Judith Allen steps down as Executive Director of Racing to School Judith Allen stood down from her role as Executive Director of the charity Racing to School (formerly BHEST) at the end of April after 10 years working for horseracing’s education charity.

The former teacher was first employed at BHEST as an Education Officer for the past eight years has led the charity that works within racing to run a unique, nationwide programme of events supporting the learning and development of over 10,000 young people every year.

Judith was responsible for guiding the charity’s transition from an awarding body for vocational qualifications and a grant giver, to an organisation focused on expanding its free education programmes for schools local to racecourses nationwide.

“I couldn’t believe my luck when I found a job which combined my passion for racing with my educational experience, and I have thoroughly enjoyed all my years with the charity,” said Judith.

“The thrill of seeing first-hand how racing can enthuse and inspire young people has never worn off, and I am fiercely proud of what we have achieved as a small team. Racing to School is now in a strong position, launching two new programmes and I look forward to seeing it continue to flourish.”

Racing to School’s Chairman David Adam commented: “It has been a pleasure to work alongside Judith in recent years and together with my fellow Trustees, I should like to thank her sincerely for her leadership, hard work and genuine passion for Racing to School.

“The charity has developed a clear strategy for growth to work with our partners to reach and support an increasing John Blake, who had been leading Racing to School’s number of young people, through the creative use of fundraising and communications functions since racing’s unique assets and opportunities. It is a tribute to September, has taken over the main responsibilities of the Judith’s commitment that we are in a position to take this charity for the immediate future. next step in our development.” John Blake

May 2016 13 back to menu Walking the Courses

Richard Farquhar’s epic journey walking the length of Britain via each racecourse has come to an end after 13 months and around 3,000 miles at Newmarket’s Rowley Mile.

Richard and Minty, accompanied by hundreds of supporters and well-wishers, undertook the emotional final leg of the walk through Newmarket’s town centre to the July Course, with a loop around the dyke and up the Rowley Mile.

Walking the Courses has been an endeavour of the Farquhar family since the death of Richard’s father, Peter, from pancreatic cancer. The proceeds from Walking the Courses, currently at £370,000, will go towards Pancreatic Cancer UK and Racing Welfare.

Upon crossing the line to the applause of the Newmarket crowd, Richard commented “I have made a colossal number of new friends and renewed friendships with people dotted all over the country. This challenge has allowed me to visit some racecourses I had not visited before, and I have been wonderfully welcomed at each one.

“Walking the Courses has been absolutely thrilling. It has been the most enjoyable, fulfilling, rewarding and uplifting experience of my entire life”.

The Walking the Courses bandwagon does not stop here, however. The Walking the Courses Final Flight dinner at London’s Hurlingham Club on Thursday 19 May will be a fitting send-off for the campaign and a further opportunity to donate to two worthy charities, with tickets from £250.

The RCA would like to congratulate Richard and Minty on this stunning achievement. It has been a pleasure following your progress around the country, and we hope to see you back at the races soon- walking optional!

For further information or to donate, please visit www.walkingthecourses.auction-bid.org

May 2016 14 back to menu Racecourse in Focus Royal Windsor Racecourse 2016 is a year of celebration across the town of Windsor. Not only is Her Majesty The Queen celebrating her 90th birthday this year, but is also 150th anniversary of racing in the Berkshire town.

With the fourth highest average attendance increase, and shortlisted for two prestigious RCA Showcase Awards, 2015 was a good year for the team at Royal Windsor, led by Executive Director Stuart Dorn. Happily, plans are in place to make sure that 2016 is even better.

On the track, the racecourse has seen an uplift in prize money in 2016, and will for the first time host the Summer Sprint Series, which will be sponsored by Sky Bet.

Culminating in a £75,000 Final in August, the richest race ever staged at Royal Windsor, the series will comprise of In turn, the team at the Racecourse has celebrated its nine qualifying races which will predominantly be run at the significant birthday with long term local partners, Windsor popular Monday evening fixtures and be worth a minimum and Eton Brewery to develop the bespoke ‘1866’ ale, which of £10,000 each. To qualify to enter the final, horses will will be served exclusively at race meetings throughout the be required to finish in the top six in at least one of the summer. qualifying races. Stuart Dorn, said, “We’ve worked really hard over the years Once again, trainer Andrew Balding takes up his role as to develop the offering at Royal Windsor and are delighted Monday Night Racing Ambassador, and will be hoping that people enjoy coming racing with us so much” to support the series, saying “Windsor is renowned as a “We’re very aware of the special position that Royal great night out for the racegoer and it’s exciting to see the Windsor holds both in the racing and local community, so team investing into the race programme. The new Sky Bet we will continue to work with both to make sure that we Summer Sprint Series should appeal to trainers and help offer a positive impact on both. This year, we will once create a good racing story across the summer and I hope again be working with the Berkshire College of Agriculture to target a horse from my stable at the series”. to deliver a course of education, work experience and careers guidance to their pupils in all aspects of In terms of celebrations, Royal Windsor will be marking racecourse life, culminating with their own raceday in the important anniversaries for both themselves and Her October, and are delighted to develop our relationship with Majesty The Queen over the summer. the Windsor and Eton Brewery to develop the exclusive 1866 ale.” In conjunction with Great British Racing, the Racecourse will mark The Queen’s Birthday on Monday 16 May, with “As well as our raceday experience, however, we really The Queen’s 90th Birthday Celebration Racenight, which wanted to up our game in terms of race programme, and will feature an exhibition of The Queen’s racing history. we hope that the Sky Bet Summer Sprint Series will see In addition, they worked with Great British Racing to some good horses entered with us, especially given the host the Royal Shetland Pony Race, which was won by prize money up for grabs across the qualifiers and the Dunfermline, ridden by Digby Shepherd. £75,000 final in August.”

Ben Cook is co-ordinating this column and looks forward to receiving your contributions. [email protected]

May 2016 15 back to menu Thoroughbred Horseracing Industries MBA Student Recruitment Ramps up as First Year of Industry led Horseracing MBA Draws to a Close

The University of Liverpool’s Thoroughbred Horseracing Industries MBA which launched in September 2015, is nearing the end of a busy first year. As well as teaching traditional MBA topics and specialist content covering marketing, sponsorship, veterinary and welfare issues as they apply to the industry, the programme has offered a packed schedule of guest speaker events and visits to racecourses, media companies and training facilities.

Guest speaker highlights included the Executive Director of Racing Business and Operations at the Hong Kong Jockey Club, Anthony Kelly; CEO, Media Services Bet365, Mike Neil Coster, Director of the MBA them and will roll the day out to Thomas, and Chief Veterinary Officer Programme said: “The industry my teams as part of their Personal at the British Horseracing Authority, engagement in the programme has Development Plans." Jenny Hall. In March, students were been first class, we have been able to provided with an insight into race complement MBA academic content, Run in partnership with the British day event management, with a with wide ranging, insightful and Horseracing Authority and the behind the scenes tour of activities state-of-the-art horseracing industry Horserace Betting Levy Board, it is the at Haydock Park. In the same month expertise.” only MBA in the world which focuses students attended a panel session on the specialised needs of the British which focused on broadcast media Samantha Bailey, student and and global horseracing industry and for the horseracing industry. This Regional Head of Sales for London is designed for those who want to included the Executive Producer of at The Jockey Club added: “I thought develop leadership and management Channel 4’s racing coverage, Carl Haydock Park was so well organised skills and enhance their career Hicks, and was held at MediaCityUK and John Baker (Regional Director prospects in the industry. in Salford. A visit to the National Stud of Jockey Club North West) and in Newmarket was the latest field trip Jason Fildes (General Manager) were The inaugural part-time cohort and covered a range of topics related amazing – I have already thanked consists of senior managers from to thoroughbred breeding. major industry employers, including, The British Racing School, Northern Racing College, Jockey Club Racecourses, Ayr Racecourse, The Injured Jockeys Fund, Kambi Sports and the British Horseracing Authority.

The programme is now recruiting for the next intake of part-time students in September 2016. To watch students discuss their experience of the programme please click here.

For more information about the programme, including available scholarships, visit www.liverpool. ac.uk/horseracingmba/ or email Neil Coster on [email protected]

May 2016 16 back to menu Pony Racing Authority Pony Racing Authority Annual Report 2015

The Pony Racing Authority (PRA) Annual Report 2015 was published this month, highlighting the incredible success it has had in producing the jockeys of the future. 66% of pony racing graduates from the last two years are now riding on racecourses or in point-to-points. In recent years the PRA role of honour includes Tom Marquand, Sean Bowen and Harry Cobden.

The aims of the PRA centre on encouraging a wide spectrum of young British enthusiasts to consider developing a career in racing. A 12-week youth training scheme took place in 2015 at the Pony Club Centre at Appletree Stud and Pony Racing is established as the junior league of racing. In 2015 there were a total of 99 fixtures on racecourses and at point-to-point meetings, which saw a total of 226 races and 1428 runners.

Over 200 children attended one of eight joint training days run by the PRA in association with the Pony Club, this is considerably up on the 2014 figure of 140.

A key focus area moving forward is to develop the interest of young people in urban areas not typically associated with horseracing.

May 2016 17 back to menu The British Racing School Harry Cobden Crowned Champion After Very Successful Run in the Conditional Hands and Heels Series

Saturday 16 April held the prestigious Scottish Grand Rodi Greene, BHA Jockey Coach said, “Harry has National at Ayr along with the final of the Conditional come a long way in a short time, he is a gifted rider who Hands and Heels series. Harry Cobden went in to the should go all the way. Harry reminds me of final with a 31 point lead after winning the first race of in the way he lets horses jump for him without moving the series back in August 2015. He then went on to around too much and also his riding of a finish is good ride another winner and was placed in a further 7 races and he can use his whip in both hands. A good attitude throughout the races. and being very aware of his need to constantly improve will get Harry a very long way. Seventeen year old Harry, who is conditional to Paul Nicholls started pony racing when he was younger, The Racing Excellence Hands and Heels Series are going on to ride in point to points and amateur races a great idea and show young jockeys they need to be until he turned Conditional in July 2015 and so far has fitter, stronger and more balanced, it isn’t easy pushing ridden 29 winners. a horse without the use of a whip to help you. Generally these races highlight the stronger riders and are a great The final race was won by David Noonan who was addition to the education of young jockeys.” Harry’s closet rival throughout the 15 race series, he also won two of the series races and was placed in 5 others.

May 2016 18 back to menu Awards Season

Awards season has been in full swing as the sun starts to shine on racecourses. Groundstaff awards, sponsored by Pitchcare and Watt Fences were presented to the teams at Ripon and Perth on account of their sterling work in difficult conditions. Further Awards to be presented to Salisbury and York this week.

The Racegoers Club Racecourse of the Year Awards have also been presented to regional winning racecourses across the country.

Perth - Groundstaff Special Merit Award

Cheltenham - Racecourse of the Year (overall winners) Fontwell Park - Best Small Racecourse (South East)

Market Rasen - Best Small Racecourse (Midlands East) Uttoxeter - Best Small racecourse (Midlands West)

May 2016 19 back to menu Five Minutes of Fame

Katy Webster

Digital Marketing & Sponsorship Coordinator

Perth Racecourse

On what day of the week were you born and what was Which tune is the most played on your iTunes? number one in the charts? Deacon Blue, Real Gone Kid Tuesday, I believe Name one thing that drives you crazy? Whitney Houston - I Wanna Dance with Somebody Someone making you a bad cup of tea. Sounds extreme When you were a child what did you want to be when but there’s nothing like the disappointing feeling when you grew up? someone makes you a bad cup of tea A police officer If you weren’t at work today, what might you be doing instead? What makes you tick? Snowboarding Laughter, no matter how stressed or hard working the office is you have to have fun If you were writing your autobiography the name of it would be ------What’s your guilty pleasure? What Katy did and was advised not to Food, everything and anything food What do you find most rewarding? What’s the daftest work related question you have ever been asked? The feeling after actually going to the gym. It’s rare but it happens from time to time and it feels great! How much are the £22 tickets What is your most bizarre talent? What is your favourite racing memory? Volunteering to be the designated driver at work parties! My first race day I was encouraged to go into the winner’s It’s happened the past two years and always regret it once enclosure being surrounded by 3 massive race horses. I’ve said it! Feeling the fear (slightly scared of horses at the time) but going with it and loving it ever since. Nothing like jumping What is something about you that most people don’t in the deep end! know? I’ve started salsa lessons….and I’m not very good.

If you would like to feature in Five Minutes of Fame please contact [email protected]

May 2016 20 back to menu Horserace Betting Levy Board Equine Science Research and Education Awards

HBLB is inviting applications for the equine veterinary Further information on eligibility criteria and application research and education awards to start in 2017. There deadlines can be found on HBLB’s press release here are four options: and on Veterinary and Education section of HBLB’s website here. 1. Research Project Grants 2. Small Project Grants Any questions should be directed to Tasha Power, Head 3. Education Awards of Operations: Email: [email protected]. 4. Equine Post-Doctoral Fellowship Tel: 020 3603 1486

The Jockey Club The Jockey Club’s 2015 Annual Results Showcase £19.9m Prize Money Investment The Jockey Club, which is governed by Royal Charter to of £130,000 per fixture, and increase of circa £10,000 reinvest all profits into British Racing and whose Patron per fixture and 64% more than the average available is Her Majesty The Queen, contributed an industry outside the Group. In the last 10 years The Jockey Club record £19.9 million to the sport’s prize money last has contributed £154.1 million to prize money from its year (2014: £19.1 million). Prize money is considered resources. vital to the livelihoods of participants, provides a return to racehorse owners and is important to the sport’s Simon Bazalgette, Group Chief Executive of The Jockey international competitiveness. Club, said: “Every penny we make at The Jockey Club we reinvest into British Racing, in line with our Royal The Jockey Club, owner of many of British Charter commitments to support the sport’s long-term Horseracing’s iconic assets, including the Grand health. In 2015 more people than ever came racing with National, The Cheltenham Festival, The Investec Derby us, more horses than ever used our training facilities at and The National Stud, has put more than £415 million Newmarket and Lambourn, back into Britain’s second-biggest spectator sport over the past 10 years through contributions to prize money The National Stud went from strength-to-strength and and upgrading facilities for customers and participants, we were able to commit record sums to prize money, according to its annual results released last month. enhance facilities for customers and horsemen, and support initiatives to ensure our sport remains part of The 336 fixtures staged in 2015 by Jockey Club the fabric of British national life." Racecourses offered average prize money in excess

May 2016 21 back to menu Sponsorship

The Sponsorship Stakes - February 2016 The Sponsorship Stakes – February 2016

Below is an overview of sponsorship activity in February 2016, produced by Mary-Ann Sandercock, using data provided by the RCA, Racing Calendar and the European Breeders Fund.

General - Races that went ahead in February:

Total races 626 Total sponsored races 523 83% sponsored Total AW races 251 Total sponsored AW races 239 95% sponsored Total Turf Flat races - Total sponsored Turf Flat races - - Total Jumps races 375 Total sponsored Jumps races 284 76% sponsored

Total Prize Value of Races Sponsored (not sponsorship contributions): £5,412,236

Sponsorship Sectors

Top 10 Sectors by number of races sponsored Top 10 Sectors by prize value

Sector Total races % of total Sector Value sponsored Betting 353 67% Betting £3,875,602 Bloodstock 23 4% Tyre Supplier £ 249,963 Private/Individual 21 4% Bloodstock £ 173,000 Tyre Supplier 17 3% Food/Drink £ 168,499 Construction 15 3% Private/Individual £ 150,992 Food/Drink 11 2% HR/Recruitment £ 102,000 Motoring 8 1% Construction £ 90,913 HR/Recruitment 7 1% Racing Admin £ 86,800 Racing Admin 7 1% Motoring £ 57,523 Equine Services/Supplies 7 1% Event Management £ 46,800

The European Breeders Fund (EBF) jointly sponsored 7 races (in addition to 15 sole EBF sponsored races); the joint sponsors have been included in their respective sectors and the EBF jointly sponsored races have also been included in the Bloodstock sector.

Top 5 Sponsors by number of races sponsored Top 5 sponsors by prize value

Sponsor Races % Sponsor Races Value 32Red 92 17% Totepool 50 £ 596,290 Totepool 50 9% 32Red 92 £ 576,735 Ladbrokes 47 9% Betfred 25 £ 561,529 Unibet 45 8% Betfair 9 £ 467,418 Coral 40 7% Coral 40 £ 375,850

If you have any questions about this report please contact Mary-Ann Sandercock on 07786 925803, or email [email protected].

May 2016 22 back to menu Sponsorship

The Sponsorship StakesThe Sponsorship - March Stakes 2016 –March 2016

Below is an overview of sponsorship activity in March 2016, produced by Mary-Ann Sandercock, using data provided by the RCA, Racing Calendar and the European Breeders Fund.

General - Races that went ahead in March:

Total races 730 Total sponsored races 547 75% sponsored Total AW races 262 Total sponsored AW races 230 88% sponsored Total Turf Flat races 8 Total sponsored Turf Flat races 5 62% sponsored Total Jumps races 460 Total sponsored Jumps races 312 68% sponsored

Total Prize Value of Races Sponsored (not sponsorship contributions): £9,502,631

Sponsorship Sectors

Top 10 Sectors by number of races sponsored Top 10 Sectors by prize value

Sector Total races % of total Sector Value sponsored Betting 317 58% Betting £5,115,846 Food/Drink 28 5% It £ 724,300 Private/Individual 26 5% Airline £ 613,500 Construction 18 3% Food/Drink £ 429,000 Motoring 17 3% Finance £ 415,500 Insurance 14 2% Insurance £ 362,500 Bloodstock 10 2% Construction £ 267,000 Finance 9 1% Racing Private/Individual £ 223,500 HR/Recruitment 9 1% Bloodstock £ 206,184 Tyre Supplier 9 1% HR/Recruitment £ 165,200

The European Breeders Fund (EBF) jointly sponsored 6 races (in addition to 4 sole EBF sponsored races); the joint sponsors have been included in their respective sectors and the EBF jointly sponsored races have also been included in the Bloodstock sector.

Top 5 Sponsors by number of races sponsored Top 5 sponsors by prize value

Sponsor Races % Sponsor Races Value 32Red 77 14% 32Red 77 £ 924,434 Totepool 52 9% Ryanair 2 £ 613,500 Unibet 47 7% Timico 1 £ 575,000 Ladbrokes 32 6% Totepool 52 £ 549,400 Coral 29 5% Unibet 40 £ 545,812

If you have any questions about this report please contact Mary-Ann Sandercock on 07786 925803, or email [email protected].

May 2016 23 back to menu RaceTech

Accreditations

We live in “interesting times” – throwing up new challenges which all sporting venues are acutely aware of. In particular, the need for heightened security and the need to know who and what and when are on your site is very much on the radar these days, particularly for the big festivals. Some racecourses already operate an annual additional accreditation, requiring RaceTech to register all staff and/or vehicles coming to site well in advance of the event. This may involve additional car/vehicle passes and/or photo ID for that particular racecourse.

If you need us to apply for additional accreditation, please give us plenty of warning! We are struggling to cope with the vast administrative overhead of late requests that staff and/or vehicles apply for additional accreditations for a particular event – it has grown to be a substantial overhead but one that requires virtually instant response so please help us to help you and give advanced warning if this is going to be required and if it is for a specific fixture or an annual general pass. ALL RACETECH STAFF WEAR PHOTO ID AT ALL During the height of the season, we run at maximum TIMES ON A RACECOURSE capacity and these late requests are at the point that we will have to take on dedicated resources to deal with it, ALL RACETECH VEHICLES HAVE A NUMBERED/ adding to our cost base. REGISTERED WINDSCREEN STICKER

To be clear, we need access to your racecourse in Where possible, if stewards, car parking teams and the days leading up to and including a major festival/ security are briefed to accept RaceTech ID, this would big Saturday for rigging/testing and commissioning be much appreciated and would save a lot of time on equipment. This may include vehicular access to deliver both rig days and race days. For major festivals, if you heavy equipment and human access to both public and need additional ID/accreditation, please let us know private areas of the course. now for next season and we can complete paperwork during the quieter winter months. Your help is very much appreciated. Catherine Pullan

May 2016 24 back to menu RaceTech

70th Anniversary and 60 Years of Video

RaceTech celebrates our “70th Anniversary Serving British Racing” on 1 November.

In addition, we are celebrating 60 years of video services this year as well – quite an achievement!

Over the coming months leading up to the actual date in the autumn, we will be doing various promotional activities to commemorate and celebrate our rich heritage and also show our own appreciation of the support shown by the racecourses over the last 70 years.

Flat Season Under Way and Facilities Need to be Booked!

On the subject of late requests – our annual plea for racecourses to talk to us well in advance of your busier days so that we can meet your requests and needs for additional facilities and resources.

We are scheduling 1-2 months in advance so if something special is going on, let us know and we can help – last minute bookings are expensive. We really do appreciate how busy you are (we are too!) at the height of summer racing, so just a rattle through the fixture list and identify those meetings where you have requirements and we can recommend appropriate facilities to support your activities.

This may be a graphics operator to run more adverts/sponsors messages and videos etc, it may be a paddock camera to capture interviews and presentations, it may be additional Public Address support when you have larger crowds to ensure that there is constant monitoring and feedback for optimal audio experience or even a full production crew – if you’ve got crowds and something special to say, we can help make it a reality on big screens and TVs in your bars and boxes. Catherine Pullan

May 2016 25 back to menu Medical

Early bird bookings now being taken! Take advantage of a fantastic saving on the normal delegate rates until 31st May 2016.

Speakers now confirmed: Professor Richard Lyon Mr Paul Gowens Dr Jon McCormack Dr Luke Regan

Workshops available: New ERC Guidelines National Early Warning Scores Paediatric (Sepsis) Bones, Breaks and Dislocation Coastguard SAR Service (non-clinical) New NICE Guidelines Paediatric (Trauma) Innovation

Book Book Online Now! Online Now! Badges & PASS 2016

Badge Posters Missing Badges

8 copies of the large poster and 4 copies of the A4 sized poster for 2016 have been sent to all racecourses. RCA: 44, 384, 385, 909, 1142, 1237, 2163 Extra copies and electronic copies are available on Press: 40, 337 request. PJA: 9, 48, 52, 148, 159, 264, 346, 351 RCA & Press Badge Lists NTF: Officials: 63, 131 Copies of the lists of 2016 RCA and Press Badges Special: holders are available on request.

May 2016 26 back to menu PASS Racecourse PASS System

The Racecourse PASS System is changing!

The new system will bring many enhancements to PASS card holders raceday experience including:

• An upgraded entrance and arrival experience, with greater consistency across racecourses • A bespoke, more personal welcome • Messages from the racecourse via the concierge service to share tailored information (travel, offers, events, facilities) • Ability to pre-request/assign guest passes, and provide guests with a confirmation text or e-mail • Link to Racecourse website to purchase additional All PASS Card holders, except racecourses, please tickets, hospitality etc. to enhance their experience CLICK HERE to provide your e-mail address, and to • Ability to manage their own online profile view the terms and conditions regarding how this data will be stored and used. Further details regarding For us to provide online access to the new PASS racecourse access to the system will be included in the system and for you to receive the full range of benefits, next PASS Update to racecourses. we will need a current e-mail address. Holly Cook Technical Racecourse Groundstaff Courses

The dates and locations for the 2016 and 2017 Racecourse Groundstaff Courses have now been finalised as follows:

20-25 November 2016 - Racecourse Groundstaff Turf Management Course (Intermediate) at The British Racing School, Newmarket.

12-15 February 2017- Racecourse Groundstaff Management Skills Course (Advanced) at York Racecourse

18-19 April 2017 - Introduction to Racecourse Groundsmanship Course (Foundation) at Cheltenham Racecourse

For more information on upcoming IOG courses or to reserve a place on any of the above courses please contact Lisa Gray at the Institute of Groundsma.nship, 28 Stratford Office illage,V Walker Avenue, Wolverton Mill, Milton Keynes, MK12 5TW, Tel: 01908 312511.

Weather Report

The March 2016 Water Situation Report (for England and Wales) from the Environment Agency can be accessed here

May 2016 27 back to menu Technical

Watt Fences Suppliers of Fornells Running Rail

Doncaster Bloodstock Sales was founded in 1962 and since then, DBS has grown from a small regional Company which specialised in servicing the needs of the commercial market place in Britain to its present day standing as a leading International Bloodstock Auctioneer with a worldwide reputation of offering value for money and a personal service that is second to none to their clients. Over the years at their Doncaster base, DBS built up a full programme of Sales catering to every taste and price range and presently has eleven sales a year in all categories of bloodstock, at all price ranges, at every time of year. On 6 July 2007, Goffs and DBS completed a landmark merger, forming a Bloodstock Auction House that aims to become Europe's Leading Bloodstock Auctioneers and the following year DBS opened their new state of the art, custom built Sales Complex. In April this year Doncaster Bloodstock Sales Ltd was renamed Goffs UK Ltd, this change coming nine years after the merger of Goffs and DBS. Goffs UK are constantly thriving to update and improve their facilities and in March this year work commenced on removing the Parade Paddock and installing a brand new one. Watt Fences supplied and installed the new parade paddock with a combination of Fornells Running Rail and Fornells Paddock Fencing. The Fornells 10100 Running Rail has been installed on the inner of the paddock with the Paddock Fencing on the outside. The Running Rail is the same that is installed on many racecourses including York, Chester, Goodwood, Musselburgh and many more. The paddock fencing is reinforced fencing that combines the flexibility and safety of plastic with the strength of a traditional wood fence. The install took 10 days to complete and was finished in good time for their Breeze Up sales which were on the 19th and 20th April 2016. ‘Goffs UK have found that the new fencing provided by Watt Fencing to be excellent, and would recommend anyone to use their product. A friendly and helpful team who are extremely professional and efficient’ Jeremy Mactaggart Director Goffs UK

For more information please contact Watt Fences

T: 01748 822666

E: [email protected] www.wattfences.com

All of our products can be viewed on the website and further information May 2016 28 back to menu Technical

Following a mild February, both March and especially April have conjunction with glyphosate or Pistol, a Bayer branded product turned out to be the coldest in recent years; correspondingly that contains both a total and a residual herbicide in the same then it has been the poorest “spring” for growth in recent years. container. Thankfully, indications are that milder air from the continent will Out on the course it will be similar story with a variety of broad push things forwards during the early part of May. leaved weeds taking the opportunity to compete against the From a nutritional perspective, anything which has been applied grass. Selective weed killers are the order of the day here over the last couple of months, in anticipation of growth, will and with React and Relay being taken off the market then turf have been in fairly short demand by the grass plant. Significant managers across the industry are having to look at options such rainfall will have contributed to leaching of conventional release as Longbow, a superlative mixture of four Active Ingredients feeds though controlled release and organic feeds should still be trusted because of its history. in good supply, as the primary mechanism, soil warmth has been Flushes of growth offer the best time for effective take up and in short supply. Night-time temperatures have a strong influence control and the necessary recovery required from the grass on the development of perennial species in early spring. plant, so now is the time to treat weeds. As temperatures warm up latent weed seeds will sprout up The below table offers you an insight into some of the options around buildings, roads and gravel paths. An application of total available to tackle weeds in all areas. weed killer will help to keep things neat and tidy ahead of race meets, and residual products such as Pacaya when used in

Area Product Action Active Ingredient Current Special Offer

Gravel paths Pistol Save £5 per 1 l bottle and car parks with Voucher Code (without underlying Barrier Acting Residual PISTOL5 40g/l diflufenican and membrane) Non Selective Total 4.5 l/ha 250g/l glyphosate Herbicide Save £10 per 5 L Non- crop areas of Bottle with voucher open soil code PISTOL10 Asteroid Pro 360 Hard Standing areas; Advanced Uptake, 360 g/l glyphosate edges of buildings, Bio-formulation, 1.2 – 4.8 present as 480 g/l Buy 3 x 5 l and roads and paths, Non Selective Total l/ha (41.0% w/w) of the get 1 Free in between paving Herbicide isopropylamine salt stones.

Longbow Selective Herbicide Buy 1x Longbow 70g/l 2,4-D, 70g/l 5 l and 1 x Green Translocated selective MCPA, 42g/l Solutions 15-0-6 10 All grass areas herbicide containing 7.5 l/ha mecoprop-P and 20g/l l and get 1 x Green four active ingredients dicamba Solutions 15-0-6 10 L Free

To take advantage of these current special offers them you can speak to one of the Pitchcare Technical Sales Advisors on; 01902 440250

James Grundy Technical Manager Note to groundstaff – all work must be done in line with RCA instructions.

W: www.pitchcare.com E: [email protected] T: 01902 440250 May 2016 Pitchcare.com, Allscott Park,29 Allscott, Telford, TF6 5DY back to menu Diary Dates

Tuesday 17 May RCA Annual Fixtures Meeting - BHA Friday 20 May Give & Gain Day Tuesday 24 May RaceTech Board Wednesday 25 May Drinkaware Training Day - Newbury Racecourse Thursday 26 May RCA Board & AGM - BHA

Contributors' Contact List

Blake, John 07766 114828 [email protected] Britten, Libby 0207 152 0192 [email protected] Cook, Holly 01344 873536 [email protected] Davies, Caroline 01344 873536 [email protected] Jackson, Bobby 0207 152 0038 [email protected] Power, Tasha 0203 603 1486 [email protected] Pullan, Catherine 0208 947 3333 [email protected] Sandercock, Mary-Ann 07786 9250803 [email protected] Swain, Paul 01344 873536 [email protected] Walker, Carol 01344 873536 [email protected]

UPDATE is also available EDITOR: Carol Walker on our website: The Racecourse Association Ltd www.britishracecourses.org

May 2016 30 back to menu