newsletter update

August 2018 www.racecourseassociation.co.uk CONTENTS

Welcome 03 Raceday Experience Group 07 09 Racing in Bloom 09 Racecourse in Focus 11 On Track 13 Did You Know ... 14 RCA Medical Group 14 Groundstaff Courses 15 Racecourse Groundstaff Awards 15 Badges & Pass 2018 16 Racegoers Club 17 Five Minutes of Fame 19 RaceTech 20 BHA Racing Department 21 GBRI 22 Racing Foundation 23 Racing to School 24 Racing Together 25 Racing Welfare 26 The Thoroughbred Club 27 Thoroughbred Breeders Assoc. 27 Watt Fences 29 Pitchcare 30 Duralock 31 Careers Overview Seminars 32 PJA Pro Am 33 Diary Dates / Contributors / 34 12 Staff Contact List

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2 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page WELCOME It may be the height of summer but it already feels like festive times are a’coming… Words by Paul Swain

turn of the Racecourse Groundstaff visit a series of reinvented spaces which Awards—now in its 22nd year. These have gone from being abandoned, awards are very much the yin to the old areas to thriving destinations in yang of Showcase—there would be their own right. All it takes is a little little point in welcoming racegoers imagination and recognition of current and providing a fantastic customer customer trends… experience if we did not have the This edition of Update is another sporting action on the track which packed with exciting content from the requires a first-class racing surface world of racecourses and the sport provided by the groundstaff. of horseracing as a whole—there is Speaking of Showcase, the event itself a look at the latest from our Raceday is well into planning mode and we will Experience Group, a day with release further details of the seminar Racecourse as the latest Racecourse programme in due course. The RCA in Focus and an in depth look at the team has been busy with other events padded hurdles which are taking too which make up our offering to racecourses by storm. members—the Race Planning Seminar Finally, I would like to congratulate all at earlier this involved with this publication as Update Much like the impending launch of ITV’s month was popular with delegates and has been shortlisted as a Finalist at this The X Factor and BBC’s Strictly, at RCA soon all racecourses will be participating year’s Association Excellence Awards in HQ the countdown to Christmas well in their final Insight = Growth workshop the best newsletter category. The RCA and truly begins after we launch our of the current contract. Awards Season. It was great to release has tasted success at the European details of the ninth annual Showcase One of the most popular events version of these awards, so it is with & Awards which will take place on 8th that the RCA runs is the Raceday huge optimism and excitement we November at and Experience Group’s Live tours. These head to The Oval in October. This would the whole team are excited to see what on-site visits take a particular theme not have been possible without the initiatives will be coming our way this and show racecourses the art of the support and trust of all who contribute year. possible by sharing best practice from to Update, and of course our talented the leisure, retail and sporting sectors. editor Carol Walker who has, without Once the Showcase information had Our next tour, Revive:Live, has just been fail, overseen each edition over the past hit inboxes and letterboxes, it was the announced and will see racecourses decade.

3 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page WE’RENEWS FROM IN OUR PARTNERS THEUpdate has been chosen RACE! as a Finalist for The Association Excellence Awards 2018’s Best Association Newsletter.

A word from partners of the RCA : Watt Fences, Pitchcare and Duralock plus the latest Job Board

4 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page

1 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page NEWS FROM THE RCA

The latest from the RCA, with a look at the Raceday Experience Group, Racing in Bloom and the Racecourse in Focus.

5 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page SHOWCASE & AWARDS 2018

6 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page RACEDAY EXPERIENCE SIX THINGS YOU NEED TO GROUP KNOW FROM REG... July Executive Summary & Actions

Words by Paul Swain A Somerset welcome The first away trip of the year brought the Raceday Experience Group to Bath where we were treated to the warmest of welcomes by Russell Smith, Maddie Difazio-Wright and the team. Following the meeting, the Group 1. was tgiven a tour of the racecourse and was wowed by the new facilities and little touches which bring the Attendees: Good Ideas Roundtable beauty of Somerset and the city of Bath to racegoers.

Caroline Davies (Chair) Steve Parlett (Kempton Park) Breathalysers as deterrents for drunken Sam Cone (ARC) Louise Ruffell (Taunton) behaviour… linking on-course Wi-Fi to Richard Conroy (Ascot) Abi Stock (Stratford) racegoers’ home broadband accounts… Philip Duncan () Paul Swain (RCA) racegoer information pods…drive-in David Fraser (Harrison:Fraser) Gregg Taylor (GBR) gazebos to host picnics…new glass Richard Hammill (Pontefract) Becci Thompson (Newbury) walled enclosure…segmenting premium It’s a local affair Bex King () Huw Williams (Warwick) enclosures to offer unique experiences… Being in the South West, we took the opportunity to invite racecourses teams who were close by. It was great Jeremy Martin (Salisbury) Neil Williams (Salisbury) surprise and delight with the ‘magic 500’ to welcome teams from Taunton, Wincanton, Salisbury and Chepstow to the Group and learn about what new Simone Martin (Goodwood) giveaway for first 500 guests…stable 2. initiatives they will be introducing for racegoers this season and beyond. staff goodbye picnic bag… extending an enclosure by reimagining empty spaces…

The Maître P, coming to a racecourse near you Harrison:Fraser’s five minute presentation focussed on the Year of Service rollout and in particular the new initiatives which have been agreed by the teams at Bath, Chelmsford City, London and Pontefract. 3. One of the highlights was the car park champion, or Maître P, given research which shows us how important the first two minutes and final two minutes of an experience are to framing the overall day. Tuesday 21st August 2018 Revive:Live A tour of young, challenging environments The midterm review in central London that have reimagined The Raceday Experience Group agreed six core projects at the start of the year which were ratified by the RCA expectations for traditional public spaces. Board. At the July meeting, we reviewed progress on how these projects were coming along and highlighted 4. areas where we’re excelling and where we can do more. Look out for further information relating to the Racing From modern markets and food hubs to Together community programme and marketing Services for racecourses. flexible areas and pop-ups, disused and underexploited areas are experiencing a new lease of life.

Make the most of the sun and join us this summer! Let’s celebrate responsible drinking practices (responsibly) It was revealed that the KPI for racecourses in the Quality Assured Racecourse assessment was to score an average of 4/5 in the responsible drinking section, representing a further increase on scores from 2017. The 5. current score is 4.1 with over 2/3 of assessments completed. Keep up the great work!

Revive:Live We’re excited to announce our latest study tour which takes racecourses on location to look at best practice in customer experience. The Revive:Live tour will look at the best regenerated spaces and their journey from old, 6. neglected areas to bustling hives of activity. There is plenty for racecourses to learn from this and we can’t wait to get started on Tuesday 21st August.

7 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page 8 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page RACING IN BLOOM RACING IN BLOOM One of the many joys of summer racing is seeing the beauty of racecourses accompanied by the intense colours of the season’s flowers.

Words by Paul Swain

We have loved seeing (and smelling) the stunning displays thus far and look forward to seeing them grow throughout the rest of the summer. You can add your pictures or take some floral inspiration at #RacingInBloom!

9 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page 10 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page IT’S THE RACECOURSE IT’S THE RACECOURSE IN FOCUS IN FOCUS Words by Paul Swain

With racing dating as far back as 1855, guests when they see it for the first has long been time.” “I am a firm believer “We’re a close-knit embedded within the local community The new Owners & Trainers stand will in a warm welcome team here at Thirsk as the place to go for an enjoyable open for non-racing business during the day out at the races, be it with friends, closed season and be fully operational and setting the tone and our raceday families or pirates as demonstrated by for racing from 2019. But what about this summer’s themed family days. for the day. The staff in particular the experience as of right now? Thirsk takes a unique place in history customer service have a reputation for “We welcome winning owners (and as the only ‘small’ racecourse to stage placed connections when space allows!) the world's oldest classic - The St has to be right from being very friendly to our new winning connections suite, Ledger when it was transferred from its where they’re treated to a glass of the word go.” and helpful and it’s Doncaster home in 1940. Aside from champagne as well as a take-home crowning classic winners, Thirsk has important that those recording of their race. There is a also played a part in the journey of more photography station set up which recent champions—both standards are upheld provides a print of their presentation and of the famous Godolphin just minutes after it has been completed at each raceday." stable took in a winning trip to Thirsk en as an additional surprise and delight route to Group One glory. element" said Wade. This surprise and delight element The whole team at Thirsk are acutely continues courtesy of a visit from Away from Owners & Trainers, the aware of the need to provide racegoers raceday presenter Adele Mulrennan. customer service doesn’t become any very well—especially when my tips seen year on year improvements as with a great day out off the track, too; “At the start of each raceday I provide a less personable. “I am a firm believer in come in!" part of the Quality Assured Racecourse whatever their reason for attending. tipster-talk for hospitality guests to try a warm welcome and setting the tone assessment conducted by VisitEngland, This is signified by the latest in a series and help them pick a few winners. It’s With this ethos in place, how are for the day. The customer service has improving over ten percentage points of investments at the racecourse and great fun and I love seeing how excited racegoers reacting and are they coming to be right from the word go” explained during the past six years. arguably now the jewel in Thirsk’s crown, people are when you let them know back? “Our attendances are very Wade. “We have adorned the walls of the new Owners & Trainers stand. your background as a former jockey healthy” explained Wade. “Racegoers our two primary entrances with artwork and wife of current top jockey are giving positive feedback—we have “Racegoers are giving “The new Owners & Trainers stand is an depicting a great day out at Thirsk to Paul!” explained Mulrennan. “At Thirsk a 4.5/5 rating on Tripadvisor with half incredibly exciting project and one that whet the appetite of racegoers. this goes further where they are keen of all reviews being ‘excellent’. Our positive feedback— we can’t wait to share with horsemen to include racegoers in other areas, “We’re a close-knit team here at Thirsk innovations over recent seasons across and racegoers alike” explained such as the Dine & View Restaurant, we have a 4.5/5 rating and our raceday staff in particular have Whilst much investment has gone into the racecourse have been popular and Marketing Manager, Sheralyn Wade. as a further element to their raceday a reputation for being very friendly and the infrastructure you can’t put a price we’ve even more to launch in 2019". on Tripadvisor with experience. It’s not something I get “Plenty of work has gone into making helpful and it’s important that those on how people make you feel.” asked at all racecourses but given the The objective facts support the claims: this building the ideal destination standards are upheld at each raceday. half of all reviews friendly, family feel at Thirsk it works in addition to Tripadvisor, Thirsk has for owners. We’ve thought of their being ‘excellent’." requirements and what they want from a raceday, hence the ideal location With four race meetings remaining in between the pre-parade ring, paddock 2018, attention now turns to hosting and track so that at all times you can each of the very different days, including see your horse and be walking distance the seasonal grand finalé Ladies Day from any one of the three key areas.” on Saturday 8th September, whilst completing the new Owners & Trainers What are the elements that really make stand. “Whilst busy, it is an extremely this new development stand out from exciting time for the racecourse” the rest? “The rooftop deck will be the explained Wade. “In the close-season place to be on the racecourse with we’ll be installing a new customer breath-taking views” said Wade. relationship management (CRM) “Inside, we’ve themed the main space system which will take our racecourse as The Chestnut Room. The beautiful marketing to the next level and I'm horse chestnut trees which line our excited to start marketing the stunning pre-parade ring were all the inspiration Chestnut Room in the new Owners and we needed—inside we’ve got plenty Trainers stand. We're launching it with a of stylish, contemporary furniture black-tie event on 12th September and accompanied by a bronze-lined I can't wait!" centrepiece bar which I am sure will wow

11 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page 12 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page ON TRACK: JUMPING FORWARD - THE PADDED HURDLE

Photo courtesy of Fiona Crawford

The RCA’s On Track column is a “Principally the idea was to minimise it’s inevitable we will receive questions regular review of pertinent subjects risk,” he explains. “There will always about any injuries that occur, but I was inside the sport. This month, we look be risks in jump racing but If you can uncomfortable seeing our racecourse at the padded hurdles developed by reduce them and prolong the sporting mentioned with such frequency about BHA Inspector of Courses Richard life, whether for horses or people, serious injuries. My No. 1 priority was to Linley which started life in his garage that has to be a good thing. And if as a try and take Newton Abbot away from workshop… consequence of minimising risk, there this conversation, and the welfare of the are fewer falls, that too has to be good. horse was paramount in any decision we HEATH ROBINSON, the early 20th made. Century cartoonist and illustrator whose Enter Heath Robinson. “There were a complex and implausible drawings lot of experiments and I started the first “Having looked at the new hurdles and of machines that achieved simple ones for my own satisfaction, because their cost, we decided the biggest risk objectives gave his name to the post- I thought we could better than what we was that we were taking a huge punt on war needs of ‘make do and mend’, has were doing at the time,” Linley says. something that was not used anywhere an equivalent in British racing. Richard else, and if it went wrong, it could have Having persuaded jockeys to accept Linley, the BHA’s senior inspector of ruined our reputation.” a trial run, Linley then found a willing courses, is a one-man research and racecourse in Newton Abbot, where It did not go wrong. Starting in March development operation, at least as far managing director Pat Masterson was 2013 with one set of hurdles in the as padded hurdles are concerned. quick to see the potential, as well as the chute for 2m 3f races, the whole circuit “Yes, I am a bit of a Heath Robinson risk. of five flights was completed in June character,” he admits. “I like tinkering, that year. Masterson recalls: “Newton Abbot and I get reprimanded now and again hosts a summer jumping programme To read the full, unabridged edition of for never throwing away things from with safe, fast ground. In some quarters On Track, please click here. the garage, just because I might need them.” Linley’s garage became the workshop in which he formulated his idea for a padded hurdle, as an alternative to the traditional wooden-framed, birch-filled obstacles over which he gained his biggest win as a jockey on Gaye Brief in the Champion Hurdle. Welfare, of horses, riders and groundstaff, was at the heart of Linley’s search for a suitable alternative.

13 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page DID YOU KNOW... Did you know that due to exceptional be invoiced after the event. Places for as feedback from previous events demand the RCA will be staging two any other delegates will be charged at particularly highlighted the benefits of additional Major Incident Awareness £175.00 + VAT. Attendees will receive the involvement of senior racecourse Courses, to be held on Tuesday six hours of CPD accreditation. decision makers. Please be aware 2 October 2018 (Newmarket that a similar course, designed for The event is designed to appeal Racecourse) and Wednesday racecourse operations teams, is being to racecourse medical teams, and 10 October 2018 (Musselburgh developed and will form part of the the content is focused accordingly. Racecourse). 2019 Racecourse Operations Seminar. It is strongly recommended that Places are available at a cost of other members of racecourse staff, For further information, please contact £125.00 + VAT for RMOs and particularly Clerks of the Course Holly Cook Racecourse representatives, which will and Operations Managers attend,

RCA MEDICAL GROUP

The RCA Medical Group met by for RMOs and identified RMOs should Advisory Committee. conference call on Monday 23 July have access to and wear PPE as they Guide to Safety at Sports Grounds: 2018. A summary of the key points is considered appropriate. High visibility The Group noted that consultation on provided below: identification should be provided as a the draft 6th Edition of the Guide to minimum, and should be included in the Safety at Sports Grounds was complete Pony Racing: It was confirmed that the RMO bag in line with BHAGI 11.2. and the RCA would work with the SGSA medical arrangements for Pony Racing RMO Identification: It was highlighted to progress the points raised in the continue, as previously, in line with the that RMOs should have suitable consultation response. risk assessment from the PRA. identification, so as to identify Nurse Skills and Qualification: It was Patient Report Form: The Group themselves in the event of a major agreed that the minimum skills and reviewed a draft patient report form incident. This would be discussed with qualifications for nurses should be (PRF) provided by Dr McNeil, which had the BHA to identify how this could be reviewed. been developed following feedback aligned with the annual registration from the recent Major Incident process. The conference call was joined by: Awareness Courses, and proposed Medical Provision in the Racecourse Dr Iain McNeil (Chair) some enhancements. The content Stables: The Group agreed the Dr James Burton and use of the form would be further amendment to the RCA Medical Holly Cook discussed with the BHA Medical Guidance Document on Annual Dr Dan Crowley Advisory Committee. Medical Risk Assessments to include Caroline Davies Ambulances: The Group agreed that consideration of the provision within the Dr John Edwards each racecourse should be able to racecourse stables. Dr Marc Epps arrange ambulance cover to meet their Foreign Riders: It was proposed that Dr Lucy Free individual requirements in line with their the medical forms for completion by Dr Graham Russell risk assessment. foreign riders should be available for Dr Andy Simpson Personal Protective Equipment: The completion online, and this would be Dr Sue Smith Group discussed the provision of PPE further discussed with the BHA Medial

14 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page RACECOURSE GROUNDSTAFF COURSES

The date and location for the final 2018 Racecourse Groundstaff Course has now been finalised as follows:

18-23 November 2018 - Racecourse Groundstaff Turf Management Skills Course The , Newmarket

For more information on upcoming IOG courses or to reserve a place on the above course please contact Diann or Su at [email protected] at the Institute of Groundsmanship, 28 Stratford Office Village, Walker Avenue, Wolverton Mill, Milton Keynes, MK12 5TW, Tel: 01908 312511.

RACECOURSE GROUNDSTAFF AWARDS LAUNCHED Sponsored by Watt Fences, Pitchcare and Fornells the 22nd annual Racecourse Groundstaff Awards celebrate the best in class in racecourse turf husbandry

jumps and dual-purpose racecourses challenge and we couldn’t have done it in addition to a special merit award without the dedication from everyone. following a round of submissions from The Showcase Awards was a great racecourses. For individuals, the Neil evening and it was brilliant for the lads to Wyatt Lifetime Award get the recognition they deserve.” recognises those who have given Caroline Davies, RCA Racecourse exceptional service throughout their Services Director, said: “Our Racecourse careers. Groundstaff are always faced with a The winners of the three individual unique set of challenges either through categories will then be invited to the the amount of racing they have to RCA’s marquee event, the Showcase prepare for or the varying weather that & Awards held this year at Aintree is thrown at them. All the winners have Racecourse, to find out which has been shown tremendous ability to produce crowned at this year’s Champion. world class facilities for our Horsemen Clerk of the Course Jimmy Stevenson and the Leicester so well done to them and we look groundstaff team toast success in 2017 2018 sees some new additions to forward to crowning a champion at the the Racecourse Groundstaff Awards, Showcase Awards 2018.” including an assessment from an The Racecourse Association is pleased independent agronomist to determine John Richards, on behalf of the to confirm the launch of the 22nd the quality of the turf being produce sponsors, said, "In the last few annual Racecourse Groundstaff Awards, and, for the Champions, a money-can’t- years, there has been a noticeable sponsored by Watt Fences, Pitchcare buy visit to a world class sporting venue improvement in the standards and Fornells, to celebrate the best in to learn from their groundstaff team. produced, and particularly at provincial class in racecourse turf husbandry over racecourses. They are now producing the past 12 months. Jimmy Stevenson, Clerk of the Course quality racing surfaces and course at 2017 Groundstaff Champion Groundstaff teams from across the facilities which are very much on par , commented “I country will be hoping to claim the with the higher profile tracks. It's very am very proud of the team for winning grand prize in their field as all codes of impressive." 2017 Groundstaff Champion. We race racing are taken into consideration— all year round which presents unique the judges award best in class to flat,

15 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page BADGES & PASS 2018

The need-to-knows

RCA & Media Badge Posters

Accreditation Lists Eight copies of the large poster and four copies of the A4 sized Copies of the lists of 2018 RCA poster for 2018 have been sent to and Media Accreditation holders all racecourses. Extra copies and are available on request from Carol electronic copies are available on Walker request from Carol Walker

Missing Badges

RCA: 68, 130, 350, 359, 360, 442, 558, 559, 639, 640, 644, 969, 1207, 1208, 1276, 1277, 1541, 1647, 1654, 1717, 1932,2125, 2218, 2220, 2238, 2240, 2273, 2279, 2304, 2311, 2313, 2377, 2414, 2492, 2501, 2524 Press: 8 PJA: 66, 98, 99, 116, 146, 160, 250, 251, 259, 299, 301, 308, 315 NTF: 1, 61, 64, 306, 307, 403, 404, 500, 501, 601, 682, 893, 894, 895, 1016, 1042, 1043, 1067, 1068, 1069, 1070, 1088, 1192, 1193, 1203, 1208, 1209, 1239, 1251, 1259, 1301, 1302, 1317, 1347 Officials: 118, 163

16 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page 50TH ANNIVERSARY SPONSORED RACES

Words by Sophie Hellyer

Racegoers Club and its members of presentations due to be made by events redirected back into the Club would like to say a big thank you to all Racegoers Club members. and the wider racing industry. racecourses who have offered race Sophie Hellyer, Racegoers Club Overseen by the Racecourse titles to celebrate the Racegoers Club Executive, commented “It’s an exciting Association, Racegoers Club acts at 50th Anniversary. time to be part of the Racegoers Club the Official Club of British Racegoers, Starting the celebrations at Worcester in this historic year. I am grateful for the offering regular racegoers hospitality on 10 May, a few lucky members of support of all racecourses who have experiences, behind the scenes tours the Club were offered the chance to played an integral part in the growth and entry into racehorse ownership select the Best Turned Out horse with a of the Club grow over the years. I am whilst encouraging regular race going looking forward to getting around the presentation to the groom and present and championing racegoers through country with our members to share our the winning trainer, Philip Kirby, with a a member’s concessions scheme, celebrations and hopefully welcome memento of the occasion. exclusive events and experiences. some new members.” From Perth to Plumpton, a further forty For more information on Racegoers Racegoers Club, is a not-for-profit racecourses across Great Britain have Club and the events it offers, please organisation, with monies raised offered Racegoers Club race titles visit: www.racegoersclub.co.uk through membership, stable visits and throughout the year, with a number

17 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page NEWS FROM THE SPORT

A look at the wider world of horseracing including updates from the GBRI, Racing to School, Racing Together plus 5 Minutes of Fame with Libby O'Flaherty.

18 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page 5 MINUTES OF FAME

On what day of the week were you Name one thing that drives you born and what was number one in crazy? the charts? People with no drive Tuesday 12 April Billy Ocean “Get outta My Dreams, Get into My Car” If you weren’t at work today, what might you be doing instead? Horse riding, walking the dog, seeing When you were a child what did you friends and family want to be when you grew up? Vet If you were writing your autobiography the name of it would What makes you tick? be... A challenge and working under You can achieve anything as long as pressure you are determined….

What’s your guilty pleasure? What do you find most rewarding? White Chocolate Team work

Which tune is the most played on What is your most bizarre ? your iTunes? I’m a really good swimmer Libby O'Flaherty Ed Sheeran ‘Barcelona’ What is something about you that Clerk of the Course What is your favourite racing most people don’t know? memory? I was the under 12’s County March 2009 Cheltenham Races, Champion in Irish Dancing watching Kauto Star win the Gold Cup and the lovely Denman giving it all for 2nd place. The Atmosphere was electric

What’s the daftest work related question you have ever been asked? Are you a Jockey?

19 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page RACETECH RaceTech to provide full HD OB facilities and integrity services for RMG racecourses for a further three years

Words by Kate Hills

RaceTech has been successful in in horseracing OB production and technology for their benefit and for securing a three-year extension of technology. The renewal will see a closer those of their racecourse customers. its contract to provide full HD outside integration between RaceTech and Our highly experienced crews and Broadcast (OB) facilities and integrity our production team at Ealing Studios, engineers work closely with our services to Racecourse Media Group which will result in strategic and financial racecourses customers, the BHA and (RMG) racecourses until the end of benefits for the RMG racecourse broadcasters to ensure the highest 2021. shareholders.” standards are maintained.” Richard FitzGerald, CEO of RMG, said: John Bozza, Chief Executive of As part of its commitment to RMG, “Following a comprehensive tender RaceTech said, “We are delighted to RaceTech is commissioning a new process, the RMG Board agreed that be able to continue our long-term outside broadcast truck to add to its RaceTech was best-placed to deliver partnership with Racing UK to provide and be operational from early on the exciting opportunities that exist the best service using up to date 2019.

In view of the recent RaceTech contract signings, we have three sparkling new trucks lined up to go into coach build. They will be fitted with the latest design technology for the benefit of all our customers.

20 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page BHA RACING DEPARTMNT Changes to Programme Book and Calendar Process

Words by Paul Johnson

Following a period of consultation and discussion with races. In effect this will mean that racecourses would stakeholders the following changes to the Programme need to contact the BHA to make any changes to races Book process were agreed. The aim of these changes is to after Programme Book stage other than: reduce inefficiency and enable race planners at the BHA and −Changes to race names, sponsor details or racecourses to make better use of their time in the ongoing supplementary conditions development of the race programme. −Prize money increases The key changes are: −Stakes reductions • A move to three Programme Books per year, each spanning four months • Streamlining of Programme Book content • A move to fortnightly calendar production Full details of how these changes will impact the schedule for the production of Programme Book 1 were recently circulated • Increased accountability for race conditions after via email but any queries should be directed to either the RCA Programme Book stage to prevent multiple proofing of or BHA Racing Departments.

British Racing’s 2019 Fixture List Published

• The Fixture List seeks to strike a balance between British Racing has published the 2019 Fixture List, following supporting racing’s workforce whilst being alive to the unanimous agreement from its tripartite structure of the needs of digital and retail betting sectors British Horseracing Authority (BHA), Racecourse Association (RCA) and Horsemen’s Group, and approval by the BHA Board. • Measures introduced following unanimous agreement of Fixture List policies from racing’s tripartite structure The focus in compiling the 2019 Fixture List has been to earlier this year bring in measures to assist those who work in the sport whilst simultaneously aligning the fixture schedule to the changing • List of 1,511 fixtures, three greater than 2018, delivered needs of the betting industry. in sufficient time for the racing industry to plan with certainty for 2019

21 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page GOING GLOBAL

Words by Daisy

July Week To promote Newmarket's July Week to The invitation was well received, but GBRI supported the South African Breeders, GBRI created for greater impact GBRI needs to July sale with social media output, a full itinerary, which was sent to the meet the key breeders face-to-face highlighting international purchasers South Africa TBA and other notable next, and to that end we are exploring and key lots that were sold at the sale. guests provided by Allan Bloodlines a visit in January 2019 for the Cape (David Allan) and Tattersalls Tammy Sale. O’Brien and John O’Kelly.

International Travel

Amanda Prior travelled to Athens at and although OPAP (The Greek this conflict will be over soon, and the end of June with Tattersalls to equivalent of the Tote) are currently the Greek buyers will be back for the co-sponsor their race day ahead of feeling pressure from the Jockey Tattersalls Autumn Horses-in-Training the July Sales. The trip was very well Club of Greece, which has curtailed sale in full force. received by the Greek horsemen, their spending. Everyone is hopeful

Promotion of British-bred success

GBRI continues to promote the around the world in 2018, across eight accompanied by an infographic posted success of British-bred horses; there different countries, including a double on social media, a press release and an have been 24 British-bred Gr.1 wins at Royal Ascot. Each win has been advert in either the TDN or EBN.

22 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page GRANTS AWARDED Racing Foundation awards grants totalling £838k in the latest funding round

Words by Tansy Challis

The Trustees of the Racing Foundation Museum; continuity funding for the The next deadline for grant are delighted to announce that Riders’ Programme and Aintree Beacon applications is 14 September and £838,436 of grants were awarded in project being delivered by Racing to for more information on what we the second funding round of 2018, as School; operational development for fund and how to apply please visit: follows: the Racing Centre in Newmarket; a www.racingfoundation.co.uk/grants. contribution towards the development Small Grants (under £10k) totalling costs for a young people’s community £38,500, which included support of facility in (Racing Welfare); the Jockey Coaching Programme’s IT and sustainability funding for education upgrade at the British Racing School; programmes being offered via HEROS’ development of a Riding Excellence Racing Academy. Programme at the College; a 2-day careers course The latter represents an extension to being delivered by the Thoroughbred previous funding support provided for Breeders’ Association; and a new the development, trial and delivery of initiative being delivered by Queen bespoke racing-related training courses Margaret University, Edinburgh at aimed at attracting youngsters into the . industry. HEROS now offers a range of qualifications from Entry Level to Level The latter will include the running of 3, including direct entry points into ‘reminiscence workshops’ for retired racing. The charity is also collaborating racing staff and the creation of a ‘Life in with local authorities and organisations Racing’ exhibition as an education tool to secure additional sources of funding for local youngsters to learn more about with the aim of creating a sustainable the racing industry. training model by the 2020-21 Large Grants (over £50k) totalling academic year which will provide 60 new £799,936, which included operational recruits for the industry annually. support for the National Horseracing

23 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page GODOLPHIN BEACON PROJECT

Top marks for the Newmarket Academy Godolphin Beacon Project

Words by Rob Sage

In July, the Newmarket Academy Godolphin Beacon Project completed its second year and returned positive feedback from students, teachers and stakeholders. The programme, which was launched in September 2016, is part of a shared vision between Newmarket’s largest employer, Godolphin and the town’s only Secondary School to support and enrich the lives of young people in the local community. The project is a joint venture between Godolphin, Newmarket Academy and the education charity Racing to School and aims to expand the aspiration and ambition of every student and provide students with the tools required to pursue these ambitions. The racing industry is a thread throughout the 29 events that formed the second year of the programme, with partners including Newmarket and Huntingdon Racecourses, Dalham Hall Stud, , Palace House and the British Racing School. Some of the key statistics and feedback from the recent academic year can be seen in this infographic. Reflecting on the end of the summer term and the second year of the Newmarket Academy Godolphin Beacon, Academy Principal Nick Froy said: “We are delighted with the way that the Project has grown this year. We have been able to provide greater coverage, and more bespoke intervention over the course of this year. The Beacon project has been a fantastic success bringing an incredible range of benefits to the students at the Academy ranging from greater awareness and ambition to confidence and global understanding. The Academy joins with Racing to School to thank our amazing supporters for their generosity and help this year.”

24 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page EVENTS PAGE

Words by Adam Harman

The Racing Together ‘Events’ page on our website is fast becoming the industry’s go-to destination for community events. Some highlights in August include Redcar’s Caribbean Carnival Day and the Injured Jockeys Fund Racing to Cricket event, Galactico Football Camp, and Epsom Racecourse Pertemps Champions Willberry Charity Derby, plus much more. We want to list your community events and hear how they went. To visit the page click here: http://www.racingtogether.co.uk/events/

CAREERS IN RACING

Words by Adam Harman & Michelle Douglas

The "explore racing" day on 24 August will involve a talk about the racing industry and career options “EXPLORE RACING”– 24TH AUGUST 2018 and tour of the British Racing School followed by an Agenda: British Racing School afternoon of racing at the July Racecourse. The idea 10.15am Arrive at British Racing Snailwell Road for the day is to invite a wide range of community School Newmarket Suffolk groups to the event that Careers in Racing and 10.30am - Careers Talk, tour of BRS CB8 7NU 12.00pm & ride the simulators Racing Together work with throughout the year. 12.15pm Lunch served at BRS The July Course Career options will be discussed with a focus on Newmarket 1.00pm Arrive at Newmarket Suffolk opening up the racing world to young people who Racecourse for a Tour CB8 0XE may have an interest in joining the industry. A large 2.05pm Watch First Race Any queries please contact: number of attendees are expected with groups Michelle Douglas 2.40pm Watch Second Race including Active Communities Network, Flying T: 020 7152 0020/07342 949616 3.00pm Afternoon Tea served in E: [email protected] Futures, Ebony Horse Club, Ride High, Vauxhall the Marquee City Farm and a number of young people currently Adam Harman 3.15pm Watch Third Race T: 07387 260980 involved with the Pony Racing Authority’s Youth E: [email protected] Training Scheme. 3.30pm Depart Community Engagement Manager Adam Harman said, “It is great to once again work with Careers in Racing, having worked with them in the past on Career Days at the British Horseracing Authority offices this feels like a natural progression and allows us to engage with a larger number of community groups.”

25 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page NAME A RACEHORSE FOR RACING WELFARE Craig Buckingham, who has a string of flat and national hunt horses, is offering the chance to name a smart half-sister to 2007 Champion Hurdle winner , with all proceeds going to Racing Welfare

Words by Felicity Marshall

The three year old bay filly, who go into Saturday 17 November with badges for at Tattersalls Ireland in June. It’s great training with Dan Skelton this season, BetVictor Gold Cup day at Cheltenham to see it being promoted and I hope is by Rip Van Winkle and has been following on from this, one of the the racing public get behind it as every nominated by Craig to be named as highlights of the National Hunt calendar. penny will go to this great cause.” part of a competition in aid of Racing Speaking about his involvement For more information on this fantastic Welfare. with the charity, Craig said “Racing prize and to enter, visit Racing Welfare’s Entry costs just £10 and the winner Welfare is a charity close to my heart competition page https://racingwelfare. will not only see the horse race under and I am a regular supporter at their co.uk/campaigns/competition/. The their chosen name, but also will receive fundraising events. I wanted to think site also has a link to the BHA name Owners and Trainers’ passes for every of an innovative and fun way to get checker where you can make sure your race day she runs at during her first people involved in the charity by raising desired name is available before you season. The successful entrant will also awareness and much needed funds. submit your entry. win a chance to see the horse in training This idea came to mind when we bought as part of a Dan Skelton stable tour on our recent batch of NH store horses

26 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page THE THOROUGHBRED CLUB The Thoroughbred Club is a social, educational and professional club open to all 16 to 35-year olds with a passion for horseracing and who wish to gain an in-depth insight into the bloodstock industry

Words by Alice Thurtle

As part of subscription to The Champions Series race days throughout the date of the race and the winners Thoroughbred Club, members are able the 2018 flat season. In August this will be announced on our social media to enjoy a large range of racing offers includes: channels. and benefits throughout the year. • The Juddmonte International Members are also able to purchase half- Stakes (August 22) price tickets at all meetings at Ascot • The Darley Yorkshire Oaks Racecourse, which includes The Dubai (August 23) Duty Free Cup (August 11). • The Coolmore Nunthorpe Stakes For a full list of race day offers available and The Hamilton to members, please visit our website. Lonsdale Cup (August 24) Other selected offers will be available To enter the ticket draw, members must to members throughout the year, so like and share the competition post please keep an eye on our social media through our social media platforms, pages and emails for details on our or alternatively email an interest to latest member offers. Members have the chance to win a [email protected]. pair of tickets for each of the QIPCO Entries close roughly the week before

THOROUGHBRED BREEDERS ASSOCIATION The achievements of British breeders, Tattersalls Silver Salver (Leading who produced the highest proportion British-based first season sire) of thoroughbreds in the world’s top Havana Gold Flat rankings in 2017, were celebrated H.J. Joel Silver Salver (Broodmare of at the TBA Annual Awards Evening the year - Flat) on Wednesday 18 July. The evening Concentric took place at the July Racecourse, TBA Silver Rose Bowl (Flat breeder of Newmarket and saw 14 awards the year) presented to successful breeding Juddmonte operations under both codes, for TBA Silver Salver (Special merit victories around the globe, and from award - Flat) the progeny of smaller studs through The Pocock Family to the major stallion farms. Philip Langham Cup (Small breeder of the Freedman was this year’s recipient of Full list of award winners: year - Flat) the prestigious Andrew Devonshire Elite Racing Club Award in recognition of his contribution Andrew Devonshire Award Whitbread Silver Salver (Leading to the industry, whilst the Dominion Philip Freedman active British-based NH stallion - Award was presented to Patrick Dominion Bronze 2017-2018 earnings) Lennon, who has dedicated his working Patrick Lennon Kayf Tara life to the thoroughbred breeding Queen’s Silver Cup (Leading British- Horse & Hound Cup (Leading active industry. based Flat breeder - Flat earnings) British-based NH stallion - 2017- Darley 2018 Individual Chase winners) The TBA would like to thank everyone BBA Silver Cigar Box (Leading British- Kayf Tara who attended and supported the event, based stallion - Flat earnings) Dudgeon Cup (NH broodmare of the including The Jockey Club Group, Dubawi year) Weatherbys General Stud Book, The Barleythorpe Cup (Leading British- Tinagoodnight National Stud, Thoroughbred Owner based stallion (Individual Flat Queen Mother’s Silver Salver (NH & Breeder Magazine, Tattersalls and winners) achievement award) Horse & Hound Magazine. Dubawi James & Jean Potter

27 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page NEWS FROM OUR PARTNERS

A word from partners of the RCA : Watt Fences, Pitchcare and Duralock

28 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page WATT FENCES

Watt Fences – Supplier to Racecourses and Trainers

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Do you have areas on or around your racecourse that need temporary or permanent fencing? Watt Fences can supplyDo you both have portable areas on fencing or around and permanentareas, f encingwithin the including stable yard,picket staff fence and4 posttimes and more rail. elastic than wood. your racecourse that need accommodation areas and many The temporary fencing options Our fencing can be used for a number of areas on and around the racecourse including to enclose hospitality/ temporary or permanent fencing? more. are easy to move, quick and easy corporateWatt Fences areas can, for supply temporary both walkways, car parking areas, children’s play areas,to install, within durable/maintenance the stable yard, staff All of our fencing products provide accommodationportable fencing areas and permanentand many more. free and sections can also be the look of wood combined with fencing including picket fence and connected together All of our fencing products provide the lookthe durability of wood and combined long life withof PVC the durability and long life of PVC in one post and rail. outstanding fence product. This eliminatesin one the outstanding costly effort fence of product.painting or stainingOur products and will can not be blister,seen in usepeel, corrodeOur fencing or rot. can T behe useddurable for aall weatherThis PVC eliminates maintains the acostly fresh effort appearance on year many after racecourse year and including is 5 times strongernumber and of areas 4 times on andmore around elastic than woof od.painting The temporaryor staining andfencing will not options areBeverley, easy toRipon, move, Musselburgh quick and easyand the racecourse including to blister, peel, corrode or rot. The Hamilton Park. All of our products to install, durable/maintenance free and sections can also be connected together enclose hospitality/ corporate durable all weather PVC maintains can be viewed on our website. Ourareas, products for temporary can be seenwalkways, in use on manya fresh racecourse appearance including year after Beverley, Ripon, Musselburgh and Hamilton Parkcar. parking All of our areas, products children’s can play be viewed yearon our and website. is 5 times stronger and

For more information information please contactPlease contact Watt WattFences Fences T: 01748 822666 822666 E: [email protected] www.wattfences.com

29 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page PITCHCARE

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30 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page DURALOCK

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31 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page BRITISH RACING OVERVIEW - ONE DAY SEMINARS 2018 OVERVIEW OF BRITISH RACING ONE DAY SEMINARS 2018

COMMENTS FROM DELEGATES IN 2017

“I just wanted to say a massive thank you for organising the seminar. It was a fabulously informative day and I really enjoyed getting to know more about the industry. I would highly recommend this to anyone new to the industry”

“As someone not working in the industry this was a great introduction to the surprisingly diverse world of horseracing” • 26th September 2018 – Hosted by: Mick Fitzgerald th “A good overview of the racing industry • 20 November 2018 – with ample opportunity for questions and Hosted by: Mick Fitzgerald feedback”

Do you want to develop your career in horseracing or perhaps “ I thoroughly enjoyed myself and hope you are new to the industry and would like to expand your to make a career in racing. I personally knowledge of the sport? Get a jump start with this seminar, took away a number of key points, as well delivered by the Northern Racing College on behalf of the British as contacts, and hope I can make my Horseracing Authority (BHA). It offers a friendly and fascinating dream a reality” introduction to the world of racing.

You will learn how the various organisations involved in racing “The course was fantastic. It really helped work together to deliver a compelling and highly popular sport. me fill in the gaps in my knowledge and A packed agenda features talks from key figures in racing, was very informative” covering many aspects of this complex and historical sport. Subjects covered include: • The role of The British Horseracing Authority; • The role of racecourses; • Breeding and the stud industry; • Horse welfare (INCL VAT) • The rules of racing; £120 • The betting industry and the media; PER DELEGATE payable by • The Racehorse Owners Association cheque or company invoice • Racing Administration (Weatherbys) • Racing Welfare This seminar will link to industry qualifications and will provide an excellent platform for the BHA’S two qualifications: Level 1 Queries? Please contact the Award in An Introduction to the Horseracing Industry; and Level Northern Racing College on 2 Certificate in The Structure of the Horseracing Industry. Scan T: 01302 861000 or above with your QR code reader on your smart phone for more information or visit www.careersinracing.com . E: [email protected]

32 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page 33 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page DIARY DATES

Wednesday - Saturday 22 - 25August Welcome to Yorkshire Ebor Festival Thursday 30 August RCA Technical Group

Thursday 6 September RCA Racing Group Tuesday 11 September BHA Racing Group

CONTRIBUTORS

Tansy Challis 07709 954620 [email protected] Michelle Douglas 0207 152 0020 [email protected] Adam Harman 07387 260980 [email protected] Kate Hills 0208 947 3333 [email protected] Paul Johnson 020 7152 0046 [email protected] Felicity Marshall 01638 560 763 [email protected] Rob Sage 07798 655427 [email protected] Alice Thurtle 01638 661321 [email protected] Daisy Wales 0207 152 0198 [email protected]

RCA STAFF CONTACT LIST

Stephen Atkin 01344 873538 [email protected] Helen Ballerino 01344 873537 [email protected] Megan Bouwman 01344 625723 [email protected] Andy Clifton 01344 625723 [email protected] Holly Cook 01344 873536 [email protected] Caroline Davies 01344 873536 [email protected] Sophie Hellyer 01344 625912 [email protected] Paul Swain 01344 873536 [email protected] Matthew Taylor 01344 873536 [email protected] Jackie Tizzard 01344 873537 [email protected] Carol Walker 01344 873536 [email protected] Kevin Walsh 01344 625723 [email protected]

EDITOR: Carol Walker The Racecourse Association Ltd

UPDATE is also available on our website: www.racecourseassociation.co.uk

34 | RCA Update Newsletter 2018 Back to content page