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2019 annualreport

RCA Annual Report 2019 1 Contents

4 The RCA Board 5 The RCA Executive Structure 6 Chairman’s Report 8 Chief Executive’s Report 10 RCA Operating Plan 2019 11 Vision & Values 12 Racecourse Services Report 14 Racing Report 16 Brand & Experience Report 18 Showcase & Awards 22 Racegoers Club 24 Marketing Services & Attendances 25 Pace Yourself Plus 26 RaceTech 27 Quality Assured Racecourse Scheme 28 RCA Group Representatives 30 Partners

RCA Annual Report 2019 3 The RCA Board The RCA Executive Structure

Maggie Carver Chairman

David Armstrong Maggie Carver Charles Barnett David Armstrong Simon Bazalgette Chief Executive Chairman Vice-Chairman Chief Executive Large Independent Racecourses Racecourses

Andy Clifton Caroline Davies Racing Director Racecourse Services Director

Paul Holly Cook Jackie Tizzard Brand & Experience Racecourse Services Finance Administrator Manager Manager

Martin Cruddace Bill Farnsworth Pat Masterson Jonjo Sanderson Kevin Walsh Sophie Hellyer Carol Walker Helen Ballerino Arena Racing Independent Independent Independent Racing Executive Racegoers PA to Racecourse Financial Accountant Services Company Racecourses Racecourses Racecourses Club Executive

Matthew Jones Katya Browne Brand & Experience Racecourse Services Executive Executive

4 RCA Annual Report 2019 RCA Annual Report 2019 5 Chairman'sMaggie Carver Report

Looking back over the last 18 months, from five out of the six largest levy-paying betting operators, racegoers as well as the substantial contribution that racing there is no question that this has been both retail and online. A Betting Data Analysis Group has now makes to the fashion and creative industries. a difficult period in many ways. The been set up to analyse the data and a Betting Data Innovation manner of the departure of the BHA Group to devise new ways of increasing profitable turnover As always, I would like to thank the staff at the RCA, at Chair caused damage to relationships on racing. Important amongst these will be products RaceTech, and my Board for all their hard work during the that were steadily being forged and emanating from the tracking and timing data that the Levy year. In the RCA’s case, I am hugely grateful for the excellent this effect was further exacerbated by Board is now sponsoring. I very much hope that sufficiently and unstinting support they gave me when we were without the news of the early implementation accurate and reliable data will be soon be available on all a Chief Executive. We are lucky to have such an experienced, of the significant reduction in the courses. Racecourses are also engaged in the development knowledgeable, dedicated, capable and enthusiastic team. In maximum stake wagered on Fixed of . RaceTech’s case, they have made an impressive start to their Odds Betting Terminals and the consequent effect on income new contracts, having built new technical equipment on time to the sport and prize money. Much effort was expended in Social responsibility has also been a high priority. Our and budget, and they are now looking at innovative ways to setting up the Racing Authority, in recruiting excellent non- partnership with Drinkaware has developed each year; we improve their service. executives, and in getting new and important committees have put in place initiatives on drugs, and the RCA Gambling established with bookmakers. The demise of the Racing Advisory Group has launched a Responsible Betting There are substantial headwinds ahead, on funding, on Authority was a significant opportunity lost and we must Campaign. There have also been several Racing Goes Green structure, and on strategic priority. It is my hope that we strive to keep as much of the good generated that we can. initiatives including one to reduce single-use plastics on can work together to build our relationships, not only with racecourses. the Horsemen and the BHA but also with the Levy Board, Nevertheless, much progress is being made. Stephen Atkin History makers: Racecourse have been celebrating their illustrious past the Racing Foundation, the Horse Welfare Board and other left us after 18 years of dedicated service as Chief Executive The RCA played a leading role in setting up the Horse Welfare with racegoers of today (Image courtesy RM Bevan/) relevant bodies to the benefit of our great sport. last September and we were fortunate to replace him with Board which will work with the BHA to address some of the David Armstrong who joins us with extensive experience pressing issues involving tripartite parties, such as the use of At industry level, progress is also being made. I would like to of the sports, leisure and retail sectors. He is currently the whip and injuries and fatalities on the track. thank Atholl Duncan for his hard work as Interim Chair at the Chairman of Pentathlon GB and formerly CEO of Wasps rugby BHA and, in particular, for his inclusive approach. I would also club and a member of the World Athletics Championships Racecourses have been at the heart of their communities like to thank Vivien Currie for her sterling work as the BHA Board. David has immediately picked up the reins and has for longer than any other major sport. Chester recently nominated director. David Armstrong and I have now joined made a dynamic and promising start. celebrated 480 years of racing on the Roodee. Community the Board and we are looking forward to working with the engagement programmes undertaken by racecourses new BHA Chair, Annamarie Phelps. On the diversity agenda, We are well on the way with the Government’s self-help include working with horses to improve mental health at it is good to see so many women now chairing boards, agenda items. Amongst these are initiatives to bring new , helping the hard of hearing at Beverley, prostate including Annamarie, Ann Duffield at the National Trainers income into the sport. The RCA has been instrumental in cancer screening at Uttoxeter, and many school visits and Federation and Julia Budd and Rose Paterson at Epsom setting up the Betting Liaison Group, now transferred from other projects working with Racing Together. These are Downs and Aintree racecourses respectively. A recent visit the Racing Authority to the Levy Board. With the latter’s just a few of the inspiring initiatives currently taking place at to Racetech’s operations at Royal Ascot took me through all help, race-by-race data is now coming in on a regular basis racecourses. the enclosures and I was struck by the improved diversity in

6 RCA Annual Report 2019 RCA Annual Report 2019 7 ChiefDavid Armstrong Executive’s Report

Having joined the racing stable in the tools they need to become even more successful venues. As Chief Executive of one of the sport’s tripartite leaders, February this year, I would like to start Data analysis is central to our strategy—be it within existing, perhaps Leadership is the value which resonates the most. by thanking all whom I have come into effective programmes such as Marketing Services and the I am keen to continue learning about this wonderful sport contact with for their warm welcome. It Quality Assured Racecourse Scheme, or new areas of work so that I can give effective guidance and support to the has been a great help whilst immersing which we will look forward to launching in the months ahead. Executive team here whilst offering clear and progressive myself in horseracing to meet so direction on behalf of the RCA and our member racecourses many diligent people whose aim is to Of course, opportunity does not come without challenges. from a central perspective. enhance the sport that they . The ongoing uncertainty around the funding of the sport will not truly manifest itself until we have seen the effect I intend to visit every racecourse over my first 24 months so I One of the first things to hit my inbox that reduced FOBT stakes will have on betting shops and look forward to seeing you for a day’s racing soon. was news of the equine flu outbreak. To paraphrase John F. subsequently racecourses, whilst the work on generating fair Kennedy, the potentially catastrophic situation that the sport and increased levy income is ongoing. All stakeholders are itself in gave us a perfect opportunity to engage and together in working to confront these challenges which will be form a conclusive, collaborative response. Such teamwork was central to our success. necessary but also demonstrated what can be when our stakeholders . One of the most pleasing elements of joining the RCA was arriving at an organisation that had given such consideration Opportunity is a word I would associate with racecourses over to what it wants to be and how it will provide service to its The RCA will play a key role in helping racecourses keep their offering contemporary for customers the next 12 months. I believe this is an exciting time for the members. The RCA’s values, which can be found later in this sport—data analysis tells us that more people than ever are report, of Excellence, Innovation, Leadership, Experience and enjoying live sports and leisure experiences, both of which are Welcome define over 112 years of work by our organisation key elements of a day at the races. during which time we have been at the forefront of many significant moments in the history of the sport. When visiting racecourses I’ve been impressed with the level of customer service offered and, in many cases, the well-oiled operation of a complex venue. It’s clear that our members have embraced the fact that service is paramount when customers are onsite for many hours, be it on a raceday or amongst the multitude of non-raceday events that take place. It’s vital that we continue to embrace all avenues of revenue and the RCA will be on-hand to provide the appropriate support.

My role will be to bring my experiences from other sports and work with the RCA team to help provide our members with The RCA's work will enhance the raceday experience for participants and As the second most attended sport in Great Britain, we have a responsibility to ensure millions have a great day out racegoers alike

8 RCA Annual Report 2019 RCA Annual Report 2019 9 RCADavid Armstrong Operating Plan 2019 Vision & Values

The 2019 Operating Plan, agreed by the RCA Board, sets Raceday Experience The RCA out key objectives for the Executive. The summary below The Racecourse Association was formed in 1907 to bring together the racecourses of Great Britain. Research portfolios have been produced on environmental provides an overview of progress to date: suitability, antisocial behaviour and profiles of different Our aim is to provide leadership to, and representation of, racecourses across a multitude of areas to empower them to be the Industry Leadership racegoer demographics as part of the Raceday Experience best venues they can be and a frontrunner in the governance of the sport. Forum’s Have a Great Day at the Races strategy. The tenth The RCA has played a significant role alongside its fellow annual Showcase & Awards will be held at reigning Showcase tripartite leaders in developing the Horse Welfare Board and We are guided by the principles of excellence and innovation across all areas of racecourse administration. The RCA takes pride in Champions Hamilton Park on Thursday 14th November. Racing Futures strategy. As a founding partner of Racing sharing best practice, faultless research and a warm welcome to those we work with. Together, the RCA continues to represent racecourses Integrity and Regulation The Racecourses in ensuring the sport is at the forefront of community The RCA has contributed to significant industry consultation Our members are spread the length and breadth of the country and include some of the world’s most iconic sporting and leisure engagement and a diverse, inclusive space for colleagues, on stewarding and raceday accountability, protecting the venues. As the theatres upon which the drama of our sport is played out, racecourses play a vital role in the overall success of the participants and spectators. interests of all racecourses. Alongside the National Trainers sport. As businesses, racecourses provide a significant source of employment across the country. As neighbours, racecourses are Partnership with Betting Industry Federation and Racehorse Owners Association, the RCA a beacon to inspire the local community and effect real change. spearheaded the national equine safety campaign Be Horse In collaboration with the Horserace Betting Levy Board, the Aware which launched in May. RCA has worked to launch an innovative data warehouse to collect and analyse betting data for all races. This ground- PASS Our values: breaking database has become an invaluable tool for the The PASS concierge system continues to develop with industry’s new Betting Liaison Group which has seen leading Excellence — We pride ourselves Innovation — We challenge ourselves Leadership — The RCA is a enhancements identified following consultation with bookmakers work alongside the industry to help enhance on the quality of our work and the and racecourses to consider fresh front-runner in the governance of racecourses, the wider industry and PASS card holders. both the betting product and generation of levy. information we provide. It is our perspectives and source original, British Horseracing and is part of These developments are in progress and scheduled for privilege as the representative of quality research to support our the tripartite leadership structure. Fixture List and Funding implementation later this year. racecourses to be trusted to deliver arguments and ensure our output We bring together 59 racecourses to The RCA Racing Department has worked closely with key RCA Brand & Values excellence. remains contemporary. speak with one voice. stakeholders to assist with the delivery of the 2020 Fixture The Executive has conducted interviews to understand staff List and the funding challenges that have become apparent Experience — Since 1907, we have Welcome — Our events are renowned motivations and values which will better shape the RCA’s in the first half of 2019. As we prepare to enter the third and served the interests of our member for the quality of content and level of output. Details can be found in the following pages of this final year of the existing funding arrangement, a key focus racecourses. The responsibility of hospitality offered. Our remit extends report. will be placed on analysing that arrangement and identifying this heritage is paramount. Our to all racecourses and we work with the elements which should be carried forward into the new team combines over 200 years of all equally. Our stable of work experience as the go-to reference closely with each other and industry structure, which will begin from 2021. point for racecourses. partners to ensure our goals are achieved.

10 RCA Annual Report 2019 11 RCA Annual Report 2019 RCARCA Annual Annual Report Report 2019 2019 11 11 Racecourse Caroline Davies Services Report

The past year has seen some Badges and PASS The Racecourse Groundstaff Awards changes in the Racecourse Services The Privileged Access Swipe System (PASS) is now well The RCA team is honoured to continue to administer The department, with Will Aitkenhead and established across 53 British Racecourses. Following the Racecourse Groundstaff Awards, in association with Pitchcare, Matthew Taylor moving on to roles at of the objectives of the first phase we have been Watt Fences and Fornells. These are the only awards within racecourses with Katya Browne warmly working on the next phase of development of the system in horseracing which recognise the dedication, professionalism welcomed to the team. conjunction with racecourses, PASS card holders and Industry and invaluable work of racecourse groundstaff teams. The bodies to deliver enhanced benefits and functionality for both format of the Awards was refreshed in 2018, to introduce All About the Horse racecourses and customers. We look forward to implementing a new pathway to Groundstaff Champion with input from With pan-industry support, the Horse these later this year. In conjunction with this we are continuing an independent agronomist, and an incomparable CPD Welfare Board has been established the roll-out of new requirements for centrally allocated experience for the Champion Groundstaff Team. In 2018 the to develop a new and comprehensive welfare strategy for the accreditation to greater security and reflect updates Awards celebrated the achievements of the teams from Ascot, Industry, under the Chairmanship of Barry Johnson. Along across sport more widely. Great Yarmouth and Warwick Racecourses, with Warwick with the RCA Veterinary Adviser, Simon Knapp, I am delighted crowned Groundstaff Champion at the 2018 Showcase & to represent racecourses as the industry comes together to RCA Operations Seminar Awards. The Awards also recognised the team at Cheltenham implement this important work. We were delighted to host the fourth biennial RCA Operations Racecourse via the Merit Award, and the Lifetime Achievement Seminar at Racecourse on Tuesday 5th and of Newbury's Richard Osgood. The Racecourse Services team has worked closely with our Wednesday 6th February 2019. The event, which was designed partners at the ROA and NTF to jointly create and adopt a new to appeal to racecourse managers and operations teams, A Word of Thanks Parade Ring safety campaign - Be Horse Aware. The campaign focussed on three key themes – taking care of your team; I would like to conclude by thanking the RCA Technical, draws together best practice and guidelines with the aim of taking care of your customers; and safety and security. The Medical, Betting Advisory, Equine Welfare and Safety Groups enhancing awareness of being around horses and highlighting Seminar included a balance of presentations, discussion for their continued invaluable support to the Racecourse simple measures that can be taken to promote safety in and forums, and table top sessions, which included the conclusion Services Team to ensure that we continue to develop around equine areas. of a series of Major Incident Awareness Courses developed initiatives and share knowledge, experience and best practice by the RCA Medical Adviser to assist racecourses in the with racecourses. Partnership Working development and implementation of their major incident We continue to work closely and collaboratively with the plans. Delegates also received a briefing from the SGSA on the BHA on key regulatory matters, including reviews of the updated Guide to Safety at Sports; an updated RCA Guide to Racecourse Licensing Process and Raceday Responsibilities, Safety at Racecourses will be reissued shortly. as well as on-going discussion on the implementation of the new Stewarding model across British Racecourses. We have also continued to hold close relationships with key external Be Horse Aware: a collaborative industry campaign to enhance Parade Ring Safety organisations to identify and share important safety and security information and intelligence, to assist racecourses in identifying the appropriate responses for their businesses.

12 RCA Annual Report 2019 RCA Annual Report 2019 13 Racing Andy Clifton Report

This was my first full year as Racing 50% or more. Racecourse Executive Contributions rose by Fixture List & Race Planning Director, so it is an appropriate £12.7m in 2018, with much of this due to the introduction The 2019 Fixture List process was completed in mid-July of opportunity to pass on my thanks to all of new Lower Race Incentive Fund and Appearance Money last year and the Fixture List published later that month. The of the racecourse personnel who have Scheme payments which were ‘unlocked’ by increased total number of programmed fixtures stood at 1,511 in the final made me feel so welcome and been racecourse investment across the year. 2018 was the first year version, which represented a very slight increase on the 2018 so helpful since I moved to the RCA of the new three-year Prize Money arrangement; before too total of 1,508. As part of our position in the sport’s tripartite in September 2017. I would especially long we will be starting to work on what will replace it in 2021. structure, the RCA was central to the discussions which led to like to thank those who have given the construction of the 2019 Fixture List. up so much time and put in so much The implementation of the government’s decision to reduce effort representing racecourses on the the maximum stakes on FOBT machines in betting shops and Some new initiatives introduced for 2019 included breaks Fixtures and Funding Groups and the likely falls in media rights payments as a result has already and for Flat participants in both March and November, as well as Racing Groups. will continue to put huge pressure on racecourses’ ability to directive that all Floodlit fixtures between January to mid- keep prize money levels at or around where they have been in April and September to December would have a final race Prize Money recent years. On the back of that, a lower than expected Levy time of no later than 8.30pm. Both initiatives are designed to This year marked the third consecutive time that the executive yield for 2018/19 has increased the financial pressure on the benefit jockeys and racing staff generally in a bid to give due contribution of racecourses to overall prize money stood at sport. consideration to the welfare of the sport’s participants in the fixtures and funding process. Owners Racecourse Racecourse Owners HBLB + HBLB + Year Prize Money Contribution EC EC % Contrubition Other Other % Maintaining an excellent working relationship with the % The sport's relationship with betting has the potential to further evolve with our BHA Racing Department and other stakeholders in such 2009 £110,461,037 £27,611,318 25% £17,379,943 16% £65,469,775 59% collaboration with leading bookmakers discussions allows the RCA Racing team to ensure we are well 2010 £98,962,667 £30,353,524 31% £15,574,949 16% £53,034,194 54% positioned to provide our members with strong support and 2011 £93,892,923 £45,243,773 48% £15,349,064 16% £33,300,086 35% comprehensive communication throughout the process.

2012 £97,729,738 £46,091,530 47% £15,962,168 16% £35,676,040 37% Betting Liaison Group 2013 £114,222,676 £48,584,347 43% £17,837,673 16% £47,800,656 42% The industry’s Betting Liaison Group (BLG) met for the delighted that five of the six largest Levy paying betting 2014 £122,988,698 £54,570,357 44% £20,051,059 16% £48,367,282 39% first time in March 2018. Representatives of racecourses, operators agreed to share both retail and digital data from horsemen, the BHA, the betting industry and the Levy Board January 2017 and on an ongoing basis. 2015 £131,803,737 £61,658,258 47% £21,692,227 16% £48,453,252 37% initially concentrated on a data warehouse project that would 2016 £137,603,058 £68,473,362 50% £22,577,546 16% £46,552,150 34% give betting operators the comfort to share race by race This data has now started to come online for racecourses, 2017 £142,536,192 £73,626,731 52% £22,328,470 16% £46,580,991 33% turnover and gross win data on the basis that it would be used which will help to inform discussions on race programmes, race to inform decision making. We appointed PwC to manage the times and the fixture criteria moving forward. 2018 £166,306,475 £86,372,808 52% £24,371,710 15% £55,561,957 33% data collection, anonymisation and indexation and were

14 RCA Annual Report 2019 RCA Annual Report 2019 15 BrandPaul Swain & Experience Report

Excellence and innovation continue The RCA hosted the Racing Together workshop at Warwick place, including at Royal Windsor where the ARCracecourse to be the defining themes of the Racecourse, itself a shining example in working with the became the first to offer eco-cups, eliminating a significant RCA’s work to enhance the raceday local community under the stewardship of Andre Klein, to proportion of single-use plastic on a raceday. experience. Described as a ‘world class help racecourses build community strategies inspired by day out’ by VisitEngland and with three best practice from both within the sport and other fields. The second interpreted Going Green in a different way— five-star VisitScotland accredited Outputs from Racing Together’s work continue to exceed for mental health. British Racing, ably guided by Racing racecourses north of the border, the expectations—a record number of entries were received for Welfare, has opened the conversation around promoting evidence would suggest racecourses this category at the 2018 Showcase & Awards and this year’s positive mental health and racecourses will play an are continuing to excel. It has been Racing Together Communtiy Day, the third renewal, saw over role in ensuring the sport is as welcoming as possible for all wonderful to welcome Matt Jones to 1500 hours donated to helping local causes. connected. the team this year as the RCA expands its coverage in this vital area. Going Green Ascot became the first racecourse to embrace the sunflower Over the past year the RCA has led original research projects lanyard initiative, widely used in the transport sector, to Have a Great Day at the Races to help inspire fresh thought and new initiatives amongst acknowledge the different needs of some racegoers, and The RCA’s raceday experience work is spearheaded by the racecourses. the RCA will be providing a national version of the initiative Have a Great Day at the Races strategy. Split into four key shortly. Furthermore, we will encourage all racecourses to areas of study: Great Racing, Great Company, Great Value and follow Nottingham’s lead in offering a sensory/quiet room Great Service, we work alongside racecourse representatives after the Jockey Club East track’s excellent #GoRacingGreen Going green #2: the RCA is championing mental health awareness with all racecourses as seen at Nottingham with the first #GoRacingGreen room as part of the Raceday Experience Forum to delve deep into room opened earlier this year. each subject. I would like to give my sincere thanks to all of our representatives on the Forum for their time and expertise. Strengthening the Stable Over the past year we have put out to tender two vital The of Sport components of our raceday experience work. We are It was heartening at the 2018 Showcase & Awards to see so delighted to confirm that Harrison:Fraser will continue as our many new ideas make a genuine impact on people’s lives: brand and design consultants, providing first-class research Beverley’s deaf-friendly raceday and Uttoxeter’s prostate from the leisure, sports and retail sectors as well as sound cancer screening initiative were particular standouts. strategic direction. Going green #1: the Raceday Experience Forum has shared best practice on removing single-use plastic from racecourses The power of sport in this regard cannot be underestimated. Equally, it has been a pleasure to welcome Live Tourism to Via Racing Together, racecourses have continued to build The first of these looked at single-use plastic. Our research the RCA’s stable of partners to conduct the Quality Assured lasting relationships within their local communities and the took in best practice from major venues including the Racecourse Scheme. Live Tourism’s client base includes growth of community engagement and CSR work continues to Emirates Stadium, The Oval and Lord's as well as HM the Premier League and ECB, ensuring that racecourses are be a real success story. Government and Sky Ocean Rescue. Since this research was assessed in the context of other top-quality sporting venues shared, numerous green initiatives have been put into and are able to benchmark effectively against them. The RCA is working with industry partners to open new avenues of community engagement

16 RCA Annual Report 2019 RCA Annual Report 2019 17 89C273

Showcase Champion— Hamilton Park

Eleven years of work under the stewardship of Vivien Currie and her team culminated in the Showcase Champion trophy. Each element of the raceday experience could be considered excellent in 2018, demonstrated by additional awards from the Racehorse Hamilton Park Crowned Champions Owners Association and Racegoers Club.

The ninth annual Showcase & Awards, in partnership with Moët Hennessy, Racing Post, Racing Breaks and GBR, took place on Groundstaff Champion— Thursday 8th November at the home of our 2017 Champions, . Warwick

The RCA’s marquee event again proved a hit with delegates as The judges were impressed with the quality of the racing record numbers attended the Showcase Seminar and black- surface in spite of difficult growing conditions all . tie Showcase Awards dinner to celebrate the best of British The entire team proved an invaluable Racecourses over the past year. support to their community, with the judges thrilled by the creation and upkeep of a watered schooling ground to The RCA curated an excellent programme for the Showcase assist local horsemen. Seminar, challenging delegates to develop their venues with a series of keynote presentations ranging from racecourse best practice (Aintree & Beverley) to exemplary standards from other sports (the R&A and Sporting Edge’s Michael Caulfield). To conclude proceedings, 26 RCA Excellence Accolades were presented to racecourses demonstrating exceptional Outstanding Initiative— standards within their annual Quality Assured Racecourse Beverley assessment by VisitEngland and VisitScotland. Beverley’s Sign Language Raceday was singled out by The Showcase Awards were as hotly contested as ever, with the judges for its fantastic reach and consideration Hamilton Park claiming their first-ever Champion Racecourse shown for all racegoers. prize thanks to a #TopSpot Award win on top of three other This initiative could have been a winner in multiple Finalist nominations. A full review of the Showcase Awards categories, but the judges felt it worthy for special class of 2018 is presented on the following pages. praise given the excellence and innovation on show in Cheers: guests enjoy Moët & Chandon at the ninth annual Showcase Awards abundance.

18 RCA Annual Report 2019 RCA Annual Report 2019 19 Events—Bath Food & Beverage— Operational Excellence— The Events Award was won by for Cheltenham Royal Windsor their incredible reimagination of the raceday for children. The Kids Takeover saw children running the ’s Theatre @ The Festival Royal Windsor’s Monday night series is long raceday, with key roles including clerk, commentator wowed the judges in 2018. The pan-Asian cuisine was a established in racing, so to reimagine the series and and vet all overseen by children who would never first in British racing and offered racegoers the chance build upon this success was a huge challenge for the forget their once-in-a-lifetime experience. to dine in a beautifully themed restaurant with great team. This was achieved and then some, with new oriental tastes overlooking world-class jump racing. raceday themes bringing in record crowds to the track and recruiting new converts to the Monday night club along the way.

#TopSpot—Hamilton Park Best Campaign—Goodwood Owners’ Experience— Racing Post Readers’ Wetherby Award—Cartmel 2018’s #TopSpot award went to Hamilton Park for Goodwood claimed the Best Campaign prize in their starting stalls lift, a unique take on an elevator 2018 for the Magnolia Cup campaign which retold Wetherby’s winning initiative was built on the Cartmel received both quantity (over a quarter of the which made for an immersive experience for the narrative behind the charity race by putting the foundations of the new owners’ facilities at the overall, record-breaking total) and quality entries from racegoers as they enter the grandstand. Simple and competitors and their emotive stories front and Yorkshire racecourse, which was made using feedback their racegoers. The winning entry told the tale of a effective, it made the day of countless racegoers and centre, creating a hugely emotive countdown ahead of from regular visitors. Superb trackside viewing, a gentleman’s 65th birthday at the track at which every presented a fantastic photo opportunity. the event. state-of-the-art reception and, of course, a warm member of his party were made to feel like VIPs before Yorkshire welcome were extremely popular with an impromptu rendition of Happy Birthday by the owners and our judges alike. restaurant staff.

Community & CSR— Digital & Social Media RCA Outstanding The Love of the Sport— Uttoxeter Excellence—Ascot Contribution—Trudi Sandown Park

Uttoxeter’s partnership with their local Lions club set Ascot were crowned the Digital & Social winners in In Trudi’s tenure, lasting over 40 years and counting, Sandown Park’s innovative idea to bring the Becher up a screening programme for prostate cancer at the 2018 with their mobile-first strategy, promoting she has taken up almost every role at Fakenham Chase at Haydock Park into their own Tingle Creek day racecourse. With 100s of men tested, 75 red warnings mobile communications and streamlining content Racecourse with no fuss. Trudi is renowned amongst impressed the judges by allowing customers to take were flagged which allowed for potentially life-saving across digital channels which were optimised for the local horsemen and racegoers alike for her warm in both feature races as part of one collaborative race preventative treatment. mobile. welcome to the racecourse and many commented card, thus continuing the season narrative whether that racing at Fakenham simply would not be the same you were in Esher or Lancashire. without her.

20 RCA Annual Report 2019 RCA Annual Report 2019 21 RacegoersSophie Hellyer Club

It has been another action-packed Our Owners Group members enjoy visits to their year for Racegoers Club with its 50th trainer’s yard to watch their horse out on the gallops, receive Anniversary celebrated throughout regular updates on their horses’ training plans and receive 2018. The celebrations proved a huge Owners & Trainers badges, allocated by ballot, to watch their success with racecourses across horse on race days. Britain kindly offering over 40 race titles to highlight the Club’s longevity The Racegoers Club's stable of horses continues to go from at which Racegoers Club members strength to strength. Golden Force, who is in training with were given the opportunity to pick Lambourn-based trainer Clive Cox, ran an impressive race the best turned out horse and make at Royal Windsor at the end of the 2018 Flat season to scoop presentations to winning connections. The celebrations an EBF Plus 10 prize. This winning streak continued into the continued with over 30 racecourse events hosted across 2018/19 Jumps season with Jamie Snowden trained gelding, Britain and a total of over 2,000 members in attendance. We’d Some Day Soon, taking his owners across Great Britain like to take this opportunity to thank all racecourses for their and winning his last three starts at Fontwell Park, Kelso and continued support. Hexham. The Club’s other horse with Jamie Snowden, a willing mare by Presenting, named Lakeside Pearl, continues to give In its 51st year, Racegoers Club is continuing to offer regular Golden moment: Golden Force delights owners with victory at Royal Windsor her Owners Group a fun day out across Great Britain with four racing fans the opportunity to enjoy additional elements of starts this season, including scooping second place at Taunton racing, including exclusive raceday packages, encouraging list and remains a key to Club members to visit in April. Behind the scenes: Club members get first access to horsemen to get the latest regular racing fans to expand their experiences to racecourse racecourses further afield from their local. news about their horse hospitality. The Club also offers behind-the-scenes tours The Racegoers Club team and its members look forward to to top trainers and leading thoroughbred stud farms. This Racegoers Club members will also receive complimentary another action-packed year ahead! year, Club members are looking forward to visiting Cheveley entry at over 40 racedays this year, which many members Park Stud in Newmarket, Tim Easterby’s stables in Malton take advantage of and travel long distances to visit fixtures at and Darlington based trainer, Michael Dods’ yard to name racecourses they have never done so before. just a few. The team strives to provide exciting new events to members and welcome any suggestions for future racecourse Racegoers Club also offers affordable Owners Groups, events or visits. providing the thrill of thoroughbred racehorse ownership at an affordable one-off cost. Perceptions of racehorse ownership A core benefit of membership of Racegoers Club continues can be that it is exclusive and expensive but by leasing the to be the concession scheme that encourages Club members horses, the Club is able to offer well-bred horses placed with to attend British racing fixtures more regularly and boost top trainers, at a fraction of the cost normally associated racecourse attendance figures. The Racegoers Club voucher with ownership, encouraging racing’s fans to enjoy the full book scheme offers concessions at over 95% of the fixture ownership experience.

22 RCA Annual Report 2019 RCA Annual Report 2019 23 Marketing Services & Attendances Pace Yourself Plus

Alongside Great British Racing and Two Circles, the RCA With almost six million racegoers visiting a British Racecourse concluded the industry-wide programme Insight = Growth in in 2018, it is unavoidable that a small number of racegoers will 2018. Lasting three years, Insight = Growth saw all racecourse overstep the mark and behave in an unacceptable manner. advance ticketing data placed into a central data warehouse The RCA and its members take a zero-tolerance approach to provide insight-led marketing tools for all racecourses and a to antisocial behaviour and work with a number of partners genuine mosaic of racegoers, both on a national and local level. to ensure the safety and enjoyment of a day’s racing is not compromised by a minority. Alongside all racecourses, the Whilst the overall objective of Insight = Growth was to grow RCA has produced detailed guidance and best practice in attendances, a vital element was to address the balance combatting antisocial behaviour. between walk-up and advance purchases which was heavily weighted in favour of the former. Advance sales are of As the first sporting partner of educational charity Drinkaware, significant importance, namely to protect attendances and British Racecourses have been pioneers amongst sporting revenues against outside impacts and to provide racegoers venues in advocating responsible drinking. Via our Pace with further value on their ticket due to purchase incentives. Yourself campaign, all racecourses promote free drinking water Since inception, advance ticket sales across the industry has and are constantly looking at innovative means to provide grown 13%. racegoers with lower or zero alcohol beverages without inhibiting the experience. To date, 70 permanent racecourse In 2018, the industry experienced a small decline staff have attended the RCA's and Drinkaware’s accredited in total attendances but growth in advance tickets and professional and responsible service of alcohol training. advance revenue. The attendance decline was concentrated around February, owing to the extreme adverse weather, and Occurrences of recreational drug use have continued to rise July with the country gripped by home nation success at the throughout all levels of society in the past year and as popular FIFA World Cup. A comparative situation was seen in 2012 venues, racecourses are not exempt from this trend. The RCA PACE YOURSELF where horseracing was competing for attention alongside the has worked closely with racecourse security teams and the ALLOW ONE SOFT DRINK BETWEEN 2012 Olympics. police to launch the You’d Be Barking campaign which has seen an increase in detection dogs and amnesty boxes at British EVERY ALCOHOLIC DRINK The Marketing Services programme, developed as a racecourses. The message of the campaign could not be continuation of Insight = Growth by the RCA, GBR and Two clearer—there is no place for recreational drugs at our venues. Circles, commenced on 1st January 2019. Centred around Proudly supports the industry data warehouse, the programme will provide racecourses with a range of marketing support to assist in maximising the potential of the insight generated and Marketing Services provides racecourses with the tools to boost their marketing Racecourses are working together to promote befitting environments and good represents a further area of value the RCA has added to capabilities (image courtesy of Investec) behaviour on racedays racecourses nationally.

24 RCA Annual Report 2019 RCA Annual Report 2019 25 RaceTech Quality Assured Racecourse Scheme

2018 was a transitional year for the RaceTech business as Our trainee programme continues to flourish providing talent A ‘world class day out’ was how VisitEngland described a we secured long term contracts with RMG, The Racing for the future across the various roles in our business. We also trip to the races and VisitScotland accredited three Scottish Partnership, Limited, the Chester Race welcomed Myles Francis as Health & Safety manager joining Racecourses with their highest accolade of five stars following Company and Chelmsford City Racecourse. We were also the senior leadership team. the 2018 Quality Assured Racecourse Scheme (QARS). delighted to sign an agreement with for the provision of race day presentation facilities at all of their The scheme, developed in 2011, provides racecourses with fixtures. evidence-based feedback to help them improve their raceday experience offering year on year. The value of this feedback Our delivery teams geared up for the new contract cycles has been reflected in the high scores awarded. by completing the build of five new HD scanners, doubling our size, and providing capability to deliver 100% HD Throughout the year, VisitEngland or VisitScotland assessors coverage across over 1500 fixtures in 2019. We were delighted visited every British Racecourse on one of their premium days to welcome RaceTech’s newest and largest outside broadcast to objectively assess the raceday experience, covering all unit into operation on 1st May at Ascot. Christened “OBX” customer touchpoints and pre and post-event information. the vehicle is capable of seating a maximum crew of 17 and will The strength in depth of the raceday experience on offer typically be used for feature racedays and festivals. in and Wales was demonstrated by the high benchmark score that was required to be included in the top 11 RaceTech Touch Screen racecourses (accounting for ties). 2018’s top 11 was made up of RaceTech has continued to develop and refine its technology (in alphabetical order): Aintree, Ascot, Beverley, Cheltenham, roadmap assessing the various remote production systems Chester, Newbury, Newmarket (July), Ripon, Uttoxeter, that are now starting to be used in mainstream sports Wincanton and York. broadcasting. Trials were held with RTV staff at their Ealing The OBX trucks will help maintain our position at the forefront of sports facility and to test the suitability broadcasting It was a mightily successful year for Scottish Racecourses as of remote viewing and cutting of race feeds. The trials were Hamilton Park joined Ayr and Musselburgh in obtaining a five- positive and will continue into 2019. star attraction rating. Stephen Yarbrough New Innovations In November the inquest into the death of our colleague The scheme also allows racecourses that excelled in specific RaceTech continues to drive innovation with the roll out of a Stephen Yarbrough at on 21st July areas of the assessment to celebrate their success through the new remote replay system working with the BHA to improve 2017 was held. The inquest returned a verdict of accidental RCA Excellence Accolades. Success in 2018 was nationwide and develop the ser vice we provide to stewards. death. Steve had worked for RaceTech for over 30 years and is as 26 accolades were awarded with York and Newbury both We also held the first of our innovation sessions in London and sadly missed. gaining recognition in three different areas. The assessment covers all aspects of the raceday experience to help racecourses York, showcasing developments such as our Touch Screen provide the best day possible kiosks, National Hunt Timing solution and plans for in-field photo finish.

26 RCA Annual Report 2019 RCA Annual Report 2019 27 RCA Group Representatives

The RCA is grateful for the considerable time and expertise given by our group representatives who help shape all areas of our work throughout the year.

RCA Betting Advisory Group RCA Medical Group Raceday Experience Forum Safety Group RCA Fixtures & Funding Group RCA Racing Group RCA Technical Group Caroline Davies – Chair Dr Iain McNeil – Chair Caroline Davies - Chair Liam Johnson Caroline Davies – Chair Andy Clifton - Chair Andy Clifton – Chair Caroline Davies - Chair Guy Chadwell Mr James Burton Ilona Barnett Jockey Club Racecourses Phil Atkinson Ben Cook Ed Arkell Ed Arkell Large Independent Racecourses Midlands Independent Racecourses Matthew Jones Large Independent Racecourses Large Independent Racecourses Large Independent Racecourses Patrick Chesters Holly Cook Sarah Bullen RCA Ilona Barnett Bill Farnsworth Jonathan Garratt Simon Claisse Large Independent Racecourses RCA – Co-ordinator Large Independent Racecourses Kate McKee Independent Racecourses Independent Racecourses Independent Racecourses Jockey Club Racecourses Steve Clare Dr Dan Crowley Harriet Collins Independent Racecourses Holly Cook Fraser Garrity Ed Gretton Holly Cook Arena Racing Company/ North East Large Independent Racecourses David Mackinnon RCA Independent Racecourses Racecourse Media Group RCA Jockey Club Racecourses Caroline Davies Alex Eade Jockey Club Racecourses Rebecca Davies Ed Gretton David Hunter Roderick Duncan Holly Cook RCA Independent Racecourses Ashley Moon Arena Racing Company Racecourse Media Group Independent Racecourses Arena Racing Company RCA Dr John Edwards Jonathan Garratt Independent Racecourses Simon Durrant Pat Masterson James Hutchinson Sally Iggulden John Currie North West Independent Racecourses Steve Parlett Jockey Club Racecourses Independent Racecourses Independent Racecourses Independent Racecourses Independent Racecourses Dr Marc Epps Fraser Garrity Jockey Club Racecourses Steve Horlick Andrew Morris Richard Norris Anthea Morshead David Roberts South West Independent Racecourses Max Roberts Independent Racecourses Large Independent Racecourses Jockey Club Racecourses Independent Racecourses Arena Racing Company Dr Lucy Free Jo Hall Arena Racing Company David Mackinnon Richard Norris Michael Prosser Jon Pullin Dan Thompson South Arena Racing Company Toby Shaw Jockey Club Racecourses Jockey Club Racecourses Jockey Club Racecourses Arena Racing Company Independent Racecourses Dr Graham Russell Rebecca Hamilton Great British Racing Nick Russell Jon Pullin Jon Pullin James Stevenson Dickon White Scotland Jockey Club Racecourses Juliet Slot Independent Racecourses Arena Racing Company Arena Racing Company Independent Racecourses Jockey Club Racecourses Dr Andy Simpson Richard Hammill Large Independent Racecourses Mick Stamp Jonjo Sanderson Sulekha Varma Chris Stickels Midlands Independent Racecourses Paul Swain Arena Racing Company Independent Racecourses Scottish Racecourses Large Independent Racecourses Dr Sue Smith Kerry Hill RCA Katya Browne James Singer Kevin Walsh Katya Browne Midlands Jockey Club Racecourses Gregg Taylor RCA At The Races RCA RCA Stephanie Hughes Great British Racing Joanna Wales Kevin Walsh Kirkland Tellwright Large Independent Racecourses Joanna Wales Large Independent Racecourses RCA Jockey Club Racecourses Sally Iggulden Large Independent Racecourses Chris Ward Sulekha Varma Independent Racecourses Rachel White Large Independent Racecourses Scottish Racecourses Arena Racing Company Matthew Woolston Jockey Club Racecourses Partners

30 RCA Annual Report 2019 RCA Annual Report 2019 31 Get in touch

The Racecourse Association Winkfield Road, Ascot, Berkshire, SL5 7HX

01344 873 536

[email protected]

www.racecourseassociation.co.uk

@TheRCA @RCAShowcase

32 RCA Annual Report 2019