newsletter update

February 2020 www.racecourseassociation.co.uk CONTENTS

Welcome 03 Community Engagement 05 06 Support Services 06 As Proud as Ponte 07 'Go North' 09 RCA Medical, Racing & Turf Conf. 10 RCA Technical Group 11 Racecourse Groundstaff Couses 11 Badges & Pass 2019 12 Racegoers Club 13 Five Minutes of Fame 15 GBRI 16 Racing to School 17 Racing Together 18 19 Racing Foundation 20 RaceTech 21 ROA 22 Britbet 22 TBA 23 Watt Fences 25 Duralock 26 Job Board 27 Racing TV PJA ProAm 28 Diary Dates / Contributors / Staff 30 Contact List 31 09

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2 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page WELCOMEWords by Paul Swain

the Showcase Seminar in 2018 as Another of the sport’s new initiatives the team took to embrace inclusivity was on display the ingenious move of including a at Ascot at the recent Carlisle Support sign language interpreter within their Services Innovation Lab where Joanna presentation to share their award- Wales discussed the royal track’s winning deaf-friendly raceday. approach to customer inclusion in a keynote speech. Full details, plus notes The reason this is so prevalent is that from other speakers, are included in the at the recent Grand National weights coming pages. launch, Aintree ambassador Laura Wright’s stunning performance of Ever in the quest of knowledge, our Imagine was accompanied by the Racecourse Services Team have Liverpool Signing Choir (and ITV’s Ed recently returned from Doncaster Chamberlin!) who were able to interpret after hosting the RCA’s multiday the lyrics to the audience. You can view Medical, Veterinary, Racing and Turf the footage here. Management Conference. This three- day event is a significant forum for Such gestures demonstrate how the medical, vetinerary, turf management sport is keen to promote inclusive and racing professionals to gather and initiatives such as the LSC at the highest Do you know what the fourth most share best practice, not to mention host level. Community engagement and common tongue in Britain is? the annual blow football tournament. social inclusion run hand in hand, and in Me neither, but after some research it February’s Update we’re proud to share You can read all the latest from across turns out that British Sign Language details of racecourses’ community the worlds of racecourses and the wider Update is currently the fourth most popularly engagement initiatives which have sport, in February’s . used language across the nation. continued to grow, positively impacting This is also akin to what we learnt at 100,000s of lives in the process.

Imagine: Laura Wright and the Liverpool Signing Choir perform at the Randox Health Grand National Weights Launch

3 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page NEWS FROM THE RCA

The latest from Community Engagement, RCA Technical Group, Racecourse Groundstaff Courses and the Racegoers Club.

4 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page BRITISH RACECOURSES SHARE SIGNIFICANT COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT FOOTPRINT • Over £2.2m fundraised and donated through racecourse charitable activity during 2019 for 250+ charities • 455 racecourse team members volunteered 3,100+ hours • 10,382 free tickets were claimed through Tickets for Troops • Racing’s national day of volunteering, Racing Together Community Day saw 65 racing teams volunteering in their local area Racing Together and the Racecourse were hosted at racecourses. activity has been growing across racing, Association (RCA) are delighted to and to see this evidenced in these The survey revealed that 64% of publish details of the 2019 racecourse results is brilliant. respondents have an established audit on community engagement community programme, with 89% “We are proud to support and showcase activity. discussing community and CSR racing’s community engagement Over 90% of British racecourses have reports at a senior level. Community activity and look forward to continuing shared details of last year’s community partnerships are now commonplace to help racecourses and racing engagement activities as part of the - 80% in 2019. Almost three quarters businesses to be a force for good in annual survey, which covered topics of respondents donate excess food their local communities this year. Racing such as volunteering, fundraising, and flowers to local good causes when Together Community Day, racing’s donations raised and charity fixtures are abandoned. national day of volunteering, takes place partnerships. on Thursday 7th May.” • Links to individual case studies Two stand-out examples of racing’s here: http://www.racingtogether. Paul Swain, Brand & Experience Manager contribution to community causes co.uk/case-studies/ at the RCA, commented: “The Racing are ’s established Together audit has given us a multitude • Link to photos and videos from Macmillan Raceday, which raised over of good stories which demonstrate 2019 community engagement £600,000 last year, and the Magnolia that as well as being first-class sporting activity: https://www.dropbox. Cup at Goodwood, which was a huge venues, British Racecourses can com/sh/15lmhc1ii00y1c4/ success in promoting the charity’s work leverage the power of racing to serve as dwm4m8pS6p8gJuK6V1ijBa?dl=0 and by contributing almost £200,000 in hubs which benefit the interests of their funds for Wellbeing of Women. • View and download the Racing local communities. Together brochure showcasing Almost 50,000 tickets were donated “Alongside Racing Together, the RCA racing’s community engagement to the charity Tickets for Troops, and is excited to continue to work with activity here: http://www. racecourses routinely support their local our member racecourses to promote racingtogether.co.uk/resources/ charities and causes in this way. Racing community engagement and share to School welcomed a record 15,000 Lucy Gurney, Community Engagement both the significant impact and fantastic young people across 372 activity Manager at Racing Together said: “We stories generated with the nation.” learning days, the majority of which know that community engagement

5 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page STAR IN THE 2020 CARLISLE SUPPORT SERVICES INNOVATION LAB

The 2020 CSS Innovation Lab took place at Ascot Racecourse and brought together speakers from across the sports industry to encourage innovation and collaboration. From within racing Ascot’s Head of Operations and Events, Joanna Wales, introduced the seminar to The Ascot Way, explaining how bringing a common purpose to the army of casual workers during Royal Ascot had helped to transform staff morale along with the customer experience journey. From the Ascot Awards to the mid-week motivational videos and staff welfare stations Joanna’s open and honest presentation highlighted exactly what they had done to engage with their Sir Clive Woodward presents on the DNA of a Champion workforce and reduce attrition rates during the five-day Royal Meeting. the day former Olympic Rower Alex a racecourse be chosen to host Partridge spoke about the highs and the event and to listen to Joanna The keynote speaker of the seminar lows of his career in professional sports share the learnings from Ascot’s was the 2003 Rugby World Cup winning and the challenges he had to overcome staff engagement programme to coach Sir Clive Woodward. Sir Clive’s on and off the water. the delegates and businesses in presentation, entitled The DNA of a attendance. The presentations from The RCA’s Brand & Experience Champion, drew on his vast knowledge Sir Clive Woodward and Alex Partridge Executive Matt Jones commented and experience from the worlds of were inspirational and helped to bring a “It was brilliant to attend the CSS professional sport and business to completely fresh perspective to team Innovation Lab at Ascot Racecourse showcase the characteristics that all engagement and staff mindset." champions need to exhibit. Later in alongside a host of other racecourse representatives. It was great to see

Joanna Wales, Head of Operations & Events at Ascot Racecourse introduces delegates to The Ascot Way and highlights what they’re doing to become a more accessible venue

6 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page AS PROUD AS PONTE— SHOWCASE CHAMPIONS 2019

Hammill has other developments on his there is a succession plan in place, but gates for the first time in 2020 on 7th mind, especially after being invited to we can’t get there while I’m doing all the April. present Pontefract’s vision at a seminar marketing. Amber has no background organised by Ireland in in racing, which we thought would be a “One of the things that didn’t really Kilkenny in January. benefit. We want her to bring in fresh dawn on us immediately was the ideas from outside, which we can use or pressure that comes with winning “It was quite daunting,” he says. “I wasn’t adapt for racing.” Showcase,” he says. “While we ordinarily only representing Pontefract but also have ideas, a marketing plan and the RCA and its champions award. I’m Hunt will eventually look at ways of improvements we want to make year relatively new to speaking at events expanding Pontefract’s non-raceday on year, we now have a lot of eyes on us, such as this, and certainly not going solo business, Hammill adds, saying: “At the watching these improvements, and we Norman Gundill took the plaudits says. “I keep thinking someone is going More than 500 people were needed for 45 minutes to an hour. I did a practice moment we’re like a shop that only have to uphold our end of the bargain and gave the first interview when to turn up and say, ‘OK, you’ve had it for to set the record, and with the help of and it only took about 35 minutes, but opens 16 days a year, yet we’ve got by continuing to push forward and do was crowned a couple of months, now’s the time to pre-meeting advertising, the final tally once I got started, they couldn’t shut fantastic facilities, we’re in an amazing exciting things. RCA Showcase champion for 2019, take it away.’ of 763 comfortably established a new me up. I suppose I’ve learned from the location for transport and views, plenty but the man who has been the driving mark. master, Mr Gundill." of parking, but the stands sit empty “The top line and the bottom line is that force behind the track since Pontefract’s overall success was for most of the year. So non-raceday we want to improve. We have probably becoming Managing Director in 1975 preceded by victory in the Events Hammill recalls: “We found that people This year, the close-knit Pontefract functions is an area we want to focus punched above our weight and we’ll was only too happy to hand the credit category, built on entering the Guinness were booking purely to be part of the team will welcome a new member to on, without taking away from the racing keep on punching. We are the champion to his in-house team of Chief Operating Book of World Records for assembling world record, and on the day, when we their ranks with the arrival of operation.” racecourse, but there’s still a lot we want Officer Richard Hammill, Caroline Street, the most number of people into the held the event at 1pm, racegoers were University graduate Amber Hunt. to do.” Nicola Cawood and Carol Nickels. shape of a whippet at the course’s Flat queuing to get into the area we’d set Hammill is beginning to appreciate that Cap and Whippet family day. aside, looping all round the bookmakers Hammill explains: “Mr Gundill is slowly with success comes scrutiny, which will Looking back on the November night in front of the stands, using both trying to come in on fewer days, and intensify when Pontefract opens its at Hamilton Park when Pontefract lifted Hammill explains the background: entrances in the paddock and the picnic the ultimate prize, Gundill says: “It was “We’re always looking for different area. unbelievable. It wasn’t just the winning, things to do, and initially I came up it was the reception we got and the way with the idea of trying to break the “We’re a very close-knit team here and that people seemed to be so pleased world record for the number of people all but one lady from the office, who for us. wearing flat caps. Guinness said we had to take care of the phones, was out would need over 10,000 to qualify, and lending a hand. Even Mrs Gundill and “It’s a great accolade for a small although we thought we might just her friend got involved handing out tee racecourse that operates with a small about get that many for the total crowd, shirts. staff and on a limited budget. I was very we couldn’t guarantee they would all be humbled, not for myself but for Richard wearing flat caps. So instead, we came “The fact it was a full team effort was and the team. I’m not a marketing up with the idea of forming the shape of one of the things that made it so man and I’ve let him get on with that a whippet. worthwhile. We’d all had such input and side of things, so the Showcase award ownership over the event, and there is a wonderful tribute to what he’s “Flat caps didn’t feature at all initially, but was no way it wasn’t going to succeed. achieved.” Guinness has strict rules about setting We were going to set the world record world records and everyone had to have come hell or high water, and we did.” Hammill too retains a sense of matching tops and headgear, so the flat amazement. “It still feels surreal, caps came back in and we did special because we never really considered it tee shirts as a memento.” was something we could achieve,” he

7 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page 8 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page INAUGURAL RACING POST ‘GO NORTH’ WEEKEND LAUNCHED

Tickets are now on sale for the first A discounted weekend ticket will be is already one of our most valuable ever Racing Post ‘Go North’ Weekend, available for Racing Post readers and and high-quality fixtures is a great three exciting days of jump racing and members which will give access to three opportunity for Kelso and the wider behind-the-scenes access coming to days of racing and stable visits for just area." the north of and Scotland in £30. General Manager March as part of an initiative to boost Molly Dingwall said: “It’s great to be The weekend’s racing will feature all jump racing in the region led by the staging the finale of three days of seven finals of the Northern Lights British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and exciting Jump racing and behind-the- Series spread across the Musselburgh sponsored by the Racing Post. scenes access for racegoers and with and Carlisle meetings, with Kelso’s four Northern Lights Series finals, the A total of £400,000 in prize money is on fixture televised live on ITV. racing on offer is sure to be fiercely offer across three fixtures: There will be Retraining of Racehorses fought. • Friday 20th March – Musselburgh parades focused on former regulars “We’ll be crowning the top owner, trainer Racecourse at northern Jumps courses, with each and jockey of the weekend too and racecourse also staging an exhibition on we’re excited about rounding off what • Saturday 21st March – Kelso the history of northern Jump racing. A should be a brilliant weekend for Jump Racecourse prize for the top trainer/jockey/owner racing in the North.” • Sunday 22nd March – Carlisle of the three fixtures will be presented at Paul Johnson, Head of Racing & Racecourse Carlisle on Sunday 22 March. Racecourse at the BHA, said: “The Go North Weekend is shaping up to What they said… With all three fixtures accompanied by be a great weekend which shines the local trainers opening their yards on Chief spotlight on some of the fantastic the morning of each day, offering the Executive Bill Farnsworth: “We’re very horses, jockeys, trainers and owners public behind-the-scenes insight into much looking forward to kicking off based in the region. the industry before enjoying a day at the Racing Post ‘Go North’ Weekend, and “With some of the biggest trainers in races: it’s shaping up to be a great event for the area also opening their yards to the • Friday 20th March – Nick Alexander, owners, trainers, jockeys and racegoers public on the morning of each day, it will Lucinda Russell based in the region. be a great chance for the public to get “Friday’s card will be an extremely behind-the-scenes of the sport.” • Saturday 21st March – Stuart competitive one and there will be plenty Tom Kerr, Editor of the Racing Post: Coltherd, Rose Dobbin, Katie Scott, on offer both on and off the track to “We’re proud to be sponsoring the Sandy Thomson showcase Jump racing in this part of the inaugural Racing Post ‘Go North’ • Sunday 22nd March – James Ewart, world.” Weekend, which is all about celebrating, Iain Jardine, Nicky Richards Managing Director promoting and supporting the sport in Jonathan Garratt: “This region has Scotland and the North. This is a superb A weekend ticket which covers all three a wealth of equine and human talent initiative and we’re genuinely thrilled to days of racing will be available for £40 when it comes to racing, as well as other be involved in what is set to be three with tickets also available for each equine disciplines. great days’ racing and yard visits.” individual fixture. “To be able to highlight this on what

9 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page The RCA Medical, Veterinary, Racing of the speakers and delegates for their A full report of the Conference will be and Turf Management Conference was input across the three days, and our included in the March issue of RCA held on Monday 10, Tuesday 11 and sponsors Duralock for their generous Update. Wednesday 12 February at Doncaster support of the event. Racecourse. We would like to thank all

10 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page RCA TECHNICAL GROUP The RCA Technical Group met on Safeguarding The Meeting was attended by: Wednesday 22 January 2020. A The Group discussed the safeguarding summary of the key points and action requirements in Jockeys Saunas and Holly Cook (Chair) points is provided below: would follow up as appropriate with the Edward Arkell PJA and BHA. Katya Browne Stop Race Procedure Simon Claisse The Group discussed the stop race Red Hoods Roderick Duncan procedure and received an update on The Group discussed Red Hoods worn Dale Gibson (PJA) wider discussions on this topic. to the Start and would follow up with James Grey (RaceTech) BHA and NTF as appropriate. Sally Iggulden Charity Race Guidance Document Richard Linley (BHA) The Group agreed no further changes Media Sophia Monkman (RaceTech) would be made to the Charity Race The Group discussed the information Anthea Morshead Guidance Document at this time. and education received by members George Noad (NTF) of Racing Media and would discuss Jon Pullin Going Group with the BHA how this could be further Jimmy Stevenson The Group reviewed and discussed the developed. Kirkland Tellwright objectives to be put forward by the RCA Sulekha Varma for the BHA Going Group. Training for Stewards Panel Chairs Lydia Hislop (BHA) The Group was provided with a Biosecurity summary of the BHA training proposals The Group discussed biosecurity and for stewards’ panel chairs and provided would follow up with NTF as appropriate. feedback.

Lingfield Park All Weather

RACECOURSE GROUNDSTAFF COURSES

The date and location for the forthcoming Racecourse Groundstaff Course has been finalised as follows:

Level 1 Racecourse: Turf Maintenance - 6-7 April 2020,

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

11 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page BADGES & PASS 2020

The need-to-knows

RCA & Media Badge Posters for Accreditation Lists for Racecourses only

Racecourses only Eight copies of the large poster and four copies of the A4 sized Copies of the lists of 2020 RCA poster for 2020 have been sent to and Media Accreditation holders all racecourses. Extra copies and are available on request for electronic copies are available on racecourses only from Carol Walker request from Carol Walker

2020 Missing Badges

RCA: 56, 328, 337, 374, 928, 929, 930, 931, 932, 956, 957, 958, 959, 1159, 1367, 1875, 2627 Media: PJA: NTF: 390, 391, 578, 579, 580, 581, 582, 646, 647, 779, 780, 830, 831, 998, 999, 1342, 1343

12 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page OUT AND ABOUT WITH THE CLUB

Words by Matt Jones

Cheltenham Festival hopeful Mister - Fisher and an impressive 17 length Sky Bet Chase Raceday victory for Ramses De Teillee. With brilliant views of all the racing Sky Bet Chase day at Doncaster action from the private box and some Racecourse saw around 25 Racegoers fantastic Yorkshire hospitality its safe to Club members head to the Yorkshire say a good day was had by all. A special track to enjoy the graded racing action thank you goes to Racegoers Club from the comfort of a private box. The Committee member Paul Seviour who day didn’t disappoint with fantastic wins hosted members on the day. for northern favourite Lady Buttons,

Dan Skelton Ownership Group Yard Visit

Away from the racecourse January Davies commented “There has the Racegoers Club team have been also saw members of the newly form already been a lot for Club members busy booking events at some of the Ownership Group with Dan Skelton to enjoy in 2020 with the visits to Dan Club’s favourite racecourses and stable head to his yard to meet our new Skelton’s and Doncaster Racecourse visits to top training yards. Finally, I’d Leading Light x Bonnie Parker filly. being particular highlights. Alongside like to take the opportunity thank the Members got to see her at work with this January also saw members enjoy racecourses and trainers that have some of Dan’s other younger horses six complimentary racedays at five been so welcoming and supportive of and had the opportunity to say hello to different racecourses and there are lots the Club already this year.” the horses during a tour of his smaller more for members to make the most of If you’d like to find out more about yard. throughout the month of February. Racegoers Club head to the Club Racegoers Club Chairman Caroline “Looking ahead to the rest of 2020 website at www.racegoersclub.co.uk

Members of the newly formed Dan Skelton Ownership Group meeting the Club filly for the first time

13 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page NEWS FROM THE SPORT

A look at the wider world of horseracing including updates from Racing to School, Racing Together plus 5 Minutes of Fame with Emma Rouse.

14 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page 5 MINUTES OF FAME

Which tune is the most played on your iTunes? I’m not a big iTunes fan, I would rather listen to the radio, listen to the chat and see what tunes come on.

What is your favourite racing memory? It has to be Frankie leaping off Logician at St Leger 2019. I was slightly worried he would land on me, but it was worth it for the photo!

What’s the daftest work related question you have ever been asked? It’s a tough one… either: Will the dinosaurs be racing or the horses? Or It’s raining but I’m worried my umbrella won’t be safe, what should I do?

If you weren’t at work today, what might you be doing instead? Probably decorating. I own a character cottage, but it’s a On what day of the week were you renovation project that seems to born and what was number one in never end. the charts? Monday, it was the start of Emma Rouse If you were writing your Wimbledon, Thatcher was prime autobiography the name of it would minster, and Two Tribes- Frankie be... Goes to Hollywood was No1 in the ‘The left of center’ by Emma Rouse. Head of Marketing charts. What do you find most rewarding? When you were a child what did you Doncaster Racecourse When a marketing campaign makes want to be when you grew up? a positive difference to someone’s When I was really little, I wanted to life, and we can have a role in making be a Postman, so I could walk lots, memories. see lots of different houses and meet people. I didn’t account for the What is your most bizarre talent? barking dogs, and British weather! It’s not bizarre, but I can sprint pretty quickly. It comes in handy at School What’s your guilty pleasure? Sports Days- major mum points! I stay up far too late watching Netflix, an upcoming theme is a great What is something about you that excuse- 6 series of Peaky Blinders most people don’t know? blitzed in a few weeks. Smashed it. I once did a Skydive and free fell at 170mph, for a mile and a half, all in aid What makes you tick? of muscular dystrophy. I love thinking up new ideas that get the team excited, especially when the ideas to develop into exciting events, that give people a new experience.

15 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page GOING GLOBAL

Words by Camilla Perrett

British Bred Success

Honeysuckle provided the British National Hunt breeding industry with another landmark success when victorious in the Grade 1 Irish Champion Hurdle at ’s Dublin Festival.

For the first time in her relatively short career, Honeysuckle was made to work hard for victory, but the classy mare showed admirable courage and battled all the way to the line.

Honeysuckle who was bred by Dr Geoffrey Guy and co-owners and managers of The Glanvilles Stud in Dorset, Doug and Lucy Procter, has now won three Grade 1 races and is undefeated in all seven of her starts over hurdles.

Honeysuckle winning the Grade 1 Irish Champion Hurdle

Sales update

The Goffs UK January Sale at less horses, last year’s turnover was the significantly smaller catalogue, the Doncaster produced a new sale record exceeded, demonstrating strength in sale saw its third highest turnover since with Gold Cup winning trainer Henrietta the National Hunt market. its inception in 2000, with the top price Knight going to £370,000 to secure of 200,000 guineas given for Stakes The February Sale was a truly smart debut bumper winner Keskonrisk. winner I’ll Have Another, surpassing last international affair, welcoming buyers The sale as a whole saw a diverse buying year’s top price. from 30 different countries. Despite bench and the although there were 35

GBRI Members’ Club

Once again in 2020, we are delighted to offer the GBRI Members’ Club to international owners who have at least one full horse currently in training in Britain and a primary address outside of Great Britain. The Members’ Club allows owners to experience the very best that racing in Britain has to offer in recognition of their contribution to our industry. This initiative is made possible by the generous support of RCA, who GBRI would like to thank for their continued involvement.

16 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page RACING INTO 2020 – JANUARY SETS THE TONE FOR ANOTHER GREAT YEAR Words by Rob Sage

Racing to School is planning to eclipse We are also running our most events at possible training and career route. last year’s record participation and the Equine Colleges in the first quarter, with We’re pleased to report that six team were straight back in action at the 27 Colleges and 700 young people set students from our Programme are end of the school holidays in January. to take part in the Riders’ Programme applying to the Introduction to Racing The month was one of our busiest, before the end of March. These activity Course at the in delivering 32 events to over 1,100 days are arranged in close partnership May. young people. To reach our target, we’ll with the BHA’s Careers in Racing team need to maintain this early pace and and aim to encourage young people look forward to working with so many in who already ride or have an interest in the sport across the country. equestrianism to consider racing as a

Thank You Booklet a Great Surprise

We never get bored of Some of the pictures are receiving positive feedback showcased here, but we on the impact of our activity think Freddie comments sum days from our beneficiaries. up the positive experience However, we really were of all his classmates: “It humbled to read a fantastic was the best opportunity I thank you booklet sent to (have) ever had, my opinion us in January. The book of of horseracing has definitely individual letters was put gone up. I had (the) most fun together by pupils from St at the weighing room, seeing Nicolas Church of England how much I weighed and Junior School, describing what weigh you had to be to their Racing to School day at ride the horses.” Newbury.

17 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page RACECOURSES POST IMPRESSIVE COMMUNITY NUMBERS FOR 2019 Words by Lucy Gurney

• Over £2.2m fundraised and • 10,382 free tickets claimed • 372 free, curriculum-based school donated through racecourse through Tickets for Troops trips were hosted at racecourses in charitable activity during 2019 for 2019 for 15,011 students • Racing’s national day of 250+ charities volunteering, Racing Together • 449 racecourse team members Community Day saw 65 racing volunteered 3,000+ hours teams volunteering in their local area

Thank you to everyone who submitted A record 89% of respondents told us by racecourse teams in 2019. Visit information to the Racing Together that community and CSR activity is the Racing Together website to see community survey; 54 racecourse and discussed at a senior level (up from case studies on individual community racecourse group responses showed 76%), while recorded volunteering programmes and to learn more. the highest figures for activity in the activity has almost doubled from short history of the annual audit. 1,673 hours in 2018 to 3,081 hours

Just Three Months To Go!

Racing Together Community Day Racing on or near the day? takes place on Thursday 7th May. We know it’s a busy time of year – This year looks set to be bigger and simply schedule your activity at a time better yet, with activity taking shape that suits your team better but still nationwide. please make an announcement about it and support the day on your social To sign up, and for help finding suitable media channels on 7th May. activities and local causes to support, speak to Lucy: lucy@racingtoschool. Find out more: http://www. co.uk racingtogether.co.uk/racing-together- community-day/

18 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page BATH RACECOURSE REVEALS SUPERB £100K+ CHARITABLE DONATION IN RACING TOGETHER AUDIT

Bath Racecourse has revealed its total happening at Bath Racecourse to as being first-class sporting venues, charitable and community contribution support local charities and the local racecourses can serve as hubs from for 2019 as part of the annual Racing community that we felt it was time to which to serve the interests of their Together audit in which all racecourses shout about it a bit more! local communities. Alongside Racing log appropriate activity throughout the Together, we’re excited to share further “Last year, we donated more than 2,000 past year. information from across Great Britain tickets and hospitality packages to local over the next few months.” As well as donating more than £100,000 and horse racing charities for them to worth of tickets to local residents, the use as raffle and auction prizes; and Bath Racecourse’s 2019 Charitable and armed forces, NHS and emergency we had 15 different charities attend an Local support highlights: services staff, and local charities, Bath’s exciting horse racing fixtures to bucket • A huge £36,000 raised for the other notable achievements during collect – raising more than £3,000 RUH Forever Friends Appeal via MJ the year included MJ Church’s charity between them. Church’s Charity Raceday raceday in May, which raised more than “We are so proud to have been involved £36,000 for the RUH Forever Friend’s • 2071 racing tickets and raceday with MJ Church’s hugely successful Appeal, and £5,000 raised for Cancer hospitality packages given away for charity raceday, which in the past four Research UK on Ladies Day. charity raffles and auctions worth years has raised more than a staggering more than £42,000 Bath Racecourse’s Acting General £109,000 for the RUH Forever Friends Manager, Maddie Difazio-Wright, Appeal; it’s fantastic to see so many • 15 charity bucket collections at said: “There’s so much good activity people here having fun at the races horse racing fixtures, raising more whilst also supporting a than £3,000 wonderful cause. • 2,209 tickets given away to local “We’re a small, busy team residents, worth £37,000 but we are keen to offer • 1,189 tickets given away to support to local and horse NHS and Emergency Services racing charities so it’s been employees, worth £20,000 an illuminating process pulling together what we contributed • 134 tickets donated to Armed last year. I know we will Forces via ‘Tickets For Troops’ continue to support more worth £2,500 charities in 2020.” • Racing’s educational programme, The RCA’s Brand & Racing To School, brought 130 Experience Manager children from four local schools to Paul Swain added “Bath learn math’s skills Racecourse’s contribution to the local community and its • £5,000 raised on Ladies Day for charitable partners highlights Cancer Research UK via ticket the power of racing and donations and bucket collections that of racecourses within • £4,000 donated equally to their locality. The initiatives Empire Fighting Chance and the promoted by Bath over the Forever Friends Appeal from Bath past year are fantastic and. Racecourse’s owners’ charitable “The Racing Together audit foundation, the Reuben Foundation has given us a multitude of good stories which demonstrate that as well

19 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page LOUISE KEMBLE APPOINTED AS A NEW TRUSTEE

Words by Tansy Challis

The Racing Foundation is delighted Louise will join Ian Barlow, Linda to announce that former TBA Chief Bowles, Susannah Gill, Mark Johnston Executive, Louise Kemble, has been and William Rucker on the Board. appointed as a new Trustee and will The Foundation is also delighted to replace Jane Keir, whose extended term announce that Mark Johnston has has come to an end. agreed to extend his term by another year. Louise has an impressive track record in the racing and breeding industries The Foundation’s Trustees are and now runs Elms Bloodstock from responsible for ensuring the delivery her stud farm in Northamptonshire. of its strategic aims and overseeing its She also holds the post of Secretary- grant making, governance and financial General of the Federation of Bloodstock affairs. All appointments are agreed by Agents (GB) Ltd; is a member of the the Foundation’s founding members Cheltenham Racecourse committee - British Horseracing Authority, all Trustees please visit: https://www. and a director of the Newmarket Stud Horsemen’s Group and Racecourse racingfoundation.co.uk/about-us/ Farmers Association. Association. For more information on trustees-and-staff

Overview of giving in 2019

The Racing Foundation is currently producing its formal review of activity for 2019 but, in the meantime, is delighted to confirm that a total of £4,991,888 was awarded over the year, in the following areas:

Social Welfare: £2,681,129 Education, Training and Participation: £1,616,379 Equine Welfare: £ 374,380 Heritage and Culture: £ 320,000

This takes the total value of grants awarded, since inception, to just over £20million.

The first funding round of 2020 is now closed, but subsequent deadlines for first stage applications are: • Friday 1st May • Friday 11th September Further information on what we fund and how to apply is available on our website: https://www.racingfoundation.co.uk/grants

20 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page RACETECH Words by Kate Hills

Media Walls Make a Big Impact

Always working ahead, we are in the National Weights Lunch, they will have operators on site sent content back midst of festival season planning. been treated to exciting highlights of to RaceTech’s offices in for the greatest steeplechase ahead of the fast turnaround social media content RaceTech’s Media department have Aintree three-day spectacular, on one creation. Now proven technology, been working with of Europe’s largest media walls. RaceTech is happy to be providing on a new initiative to promote the this for a second year running. Thank Randox Health Grand National 2020 Aintree Racecourse have also been you, Aintree, for putting your faith in Festival and preceding events. working with the Media Department to RaceTech’s Media Team. create innovative solutions for remote As visitors arrived at Lime Street Station content production for the second Among the many new initiatives we now and crossed the road to St. George’s year running. Trialled in 2019 camera offer to racecourses is a full recording Hall for the Randox Health, Grand of the day’s output on their Racecourse TV. This is not only a colourful record of the raceday, but a fantastic gift to add to your ‘benefits of sponsorship’. Race Sponsors are often keen to know how much exposure they get throughout the day and this is one way you can provide a record of some of that data. It is also useful to show potential new sponsors one of the many ways they will benefit. Please contact us for more information on how we can work with you using technical solutions and creative ideas to enhance your Racecourse TV output and your customer experience throughout.

INDUSTRY OWNERSHIP STRATEGY: UPDATE Words by Pip Kirkby

ROA Owners’ Experience Workshops *REMINDER*

As a reminder the ROA will again To reserve your place(s), please email the 2020 Racedays – we will be working be hosting two workshops that will [email protected] indicating your across the Industry to utilise the focus on the Racecourse Ownership racecourse, details of the attendee(s) Racedays to promote ownership of all Experience. They will focus on a review and dietary requirements plus which types. of the 2019 Quality Mark Assessment workshop you would like to attend. scheme and trends/key areas, and best The schedule of racedays for the next practice. Ownership Racedays few months is:

The deadline for responses has been Again, thanks go to Racecourses for extended to: 20 February 2020. their help in developing the schedule for

February Bangor Tuesday 18th February • on Wednesday 4 March March Musselburgh Tuesday 31st March • Ascot Racecourse on Thursday 5 April Sedgefield Tuesday 21st April March

21 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page BRITBET Words by Clare Rogerson

In March 2019, we introduced ‘lucky opportunity to try new bets they might • ‘Meeting’ wallets (with a pick’ bets, with the product quickly not normally choose. selection of bets to cover the becoming one of the standout entire raceday) include a win and Lucky picks are available for all Tote successes of the last year for our 55 exacta bets for the first race to products and can be bought as a britbet racecourse partners. give a chance of returning some ‘wallet’ with a selection of bet for the winnings to customers on the first Lucky pick bets are similar to a ‘lucky whole meeting or for one specific race which can be reinvested on dip’ on the lottery. A smart algorithm race. more bets or F&B on the day selects bets for a customer, weighted The algorithm that makes the towards the most likely outcome to • They introduce customers to selections for the lucky pick bets has give punters more chance, on average, some more exotic tote bets such been specifically designed to benefit of winning. as the placepot, quadpot and both the racecourse and the customer exacta The bet type is aimed primarily at as: casual ‘daytripper’ racegoers and seek • Wins assist in the creation of a • Bets include perms (multiple to create a memorable, fun, social memorable raceday experience, selections of horses for a race) to raceday experience. They also serve particularly for customers in give customers more opportunity as a great introduction to groups or hospitality. to win and, for more experienced bettors, the

2019 Lucky Pick Wins

Pool Name Stake Customer Winnings Placepot £2 £13,027 Trifecta £3 £11,571 Placepot £12 £7,318 Placepot £12 £7,318 Placepot £4 £5,851 Quadpot £3 £5,421

If you are interested in adding lucky pick bets to your ticket packages, please contact your britbet Racing Manager.

britbet contact: Steven Johnson ([email protected])

UK Tote Group contact: Dani Johnson ([email protected])

DAVID MAYKELS RETURNS TO Leicester Racecourse are pleased to David Maykels commented "I am very welcome back David Maykels as new excited to be back at the Racecourse General Manager. No stranger to the after 6 years away. I have enjoyed my racecourse, David previously held the time working with various different position of General Manager from business genres and now need some 2006-2013. time to re-engage and familiarise myself with all operations here at the Following his first stint at Leicester, Racecourse. David spent the next six years working for various organisations, mostly within “Having been a racing fan since the age the leisure industry attaining new skills of 13, this industry always pulls you and experiences. back, sometimes when you least expect it. I look forward to the future!"

22 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page THE THOROUGHBRED CLUB

Words by Olivia May

The Thoroughbred Club is a social, from around the country through TBA South East Regional Forum – educational and professional club open various events and offers. Open to TBA and TTC Members to all 16 to 35-year olds with a passion for horseracing and who wish to gain an in- February Badge Offers Friday 14 February Sandown Racecourse depth insight into the bloodstock industry. Saturday 15 February TTC members are invited to join the Ascot Racecourse Membership starts from just £25 a year TBA at the South East Regional Forum Ascot Racecourse are kindly offering and benefits include exclusive race badge on Friday 14 February to learn about TTC members the opportunity to offers, subscription to the Thoroughbred the latest industry initiatives and purchase two HALF PRICE admission Owner Breeder Magazine, behind-the projects. The forum is followed by a Q tickets to TTC members at the Betfair scenes industry events and much more. & A session where you can put your Ascot Chase Race day on Saturday 15 questions to representatives of the February. Tickets can be purchased The TTC is a great opportunity to meet TBA and . Lunch will be on the day only by showing a valid TTC with fellow TTC and TBA members provided and is followed by an enjoyable membership card at Ticket Office East. as well as getting exclusive access to afternoon of racing. leading racing and breeding operations

THOROUGHBRED BREEDERS ASSOCIATION

National Hunt Mare Owners' Prize Scheme

The National Hunt Mare Owners’ Prize Scheme (NH MOPS) pays cash bonuses to the connections of Course Name Race Date Race No. registered mares that win qualifying bonus races, meaning WETHERBY 01/02/2020 30654 that NH MOPS races can have up to an additional value of TAUNTON 02/02/2020 30682 £10,000. CARLISLE 03/02/2020 30694 A list of qualifying races in January 2020 and full details of HUNTINGDON 06/02/2020 30757 the races (including race titles) can be found here. BANGOR-ON-DEE 07/02/2020 30762 Please do not hesitate to contact the TBA office should WARWICK 08/02/2020 30803 you wish to confirm which horses are eligible for the cash EXETER 09/02/2020 30812 bonuses. WETHERBY 12/02/2020 30878 For more information on NH MOPS and how you can FONTWELL PARK 13/02/2020 30885 highlight that your course hosts these valuable races, including presentation boards, big screen and racecard SANDOWN PARK 14/02/2020 30921 adverts, please contact the TBA Office at info@thetba. ASCOT 15/02/2020 30937 co.uk or 01638 661321. MARKET RASEN 16/02/2020 30964 TAUNTON 18/02/2020 31003 LUDLOW 19/02/2020 31022 EXETER 21/02/2020 31056 WARWICK 21/02/2020 31067 NEWCASTLE 22/02/2020 31096 CARLISLE 24/02/2020 31127 DONCASTER 28/02/2020 31206 NEWBURY 28/02/2020 31227 DONCASTER 29/02/2020 31213

23 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page NEWS FROM OUR PARTNERS

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

24 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page WATT FENCES

Running Rails Wattfences supply both Duralock and Gilling Running Rail to Racecourses across the country. All the Gallop Rail we supply is made to BHA specifications and is available in white and green.

Gilling Running Rail

Our Gilling Running Rail is a very popular product amongst Racecourse across the UK. Available in swan neck or upright, Gilling Rail is suitable for any venue.

Duralock Running Rail

Duralock rails smooth surfaces and rounded edges remove the risk of injury when brushing against the rails at speed. Duralock Running Rail is used on many prestigious Racecourses across the UK and globally.

WEBSITE TELEPHONE EMAIL www.wattfences.com +44 (0)1748822666 [email protected]

Watt Fences Ltd, Broken Brea Farm, Easby, North Yorkshire, DL10 7EY

25 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page DURALOCK

• DURALOCK CROWD BARRIERS •

Crowd Barrier With Tube Crowd Barrier With Mesh

Duralock is delighted that our Crowd Barrier systems will guide and protect over 260,000 racegoers over the 4 day Cheltenham Festival in a few weeks time

"Chantilly" Crowd Barrier Picket Fencing

CONTACT US TODAY TO DISCUSS ANY FENCING PROJECTS

T: +44 (0)1608 678238 E: [email protected] W: www.duralock.com

Duralock UK Ltd. 6A Enstone Business Park, Enstone, Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire, OX7 4NP

26 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page JOB BOARD

Business Development Executive (Racing Sales)

Competitive Salary + Benefits

Newbury Racecourse is an award-winning sporting venue with a multi-functional site playing host to c. 30 racedays per year, plus a wide range of other exciting events including concerts, weddings and exhibitions. In 2020 we will deliver over 200 event days; including two raceday concerts, the Al Shaqab Lockinge with Ladies Day, the Ladbrokes Winter Carnival and a host of other themed events.

As part of our ambitious on-going development plan we are now seeking a pro-active Business Development Executive to join the Racing Sales team to maximise sales revenue and profitability of our racing facilities; boxes, restaurants, membership and ticketing.

The successful candidate in this role will; • Proactively represent racing business to existing and potential clients • Work with the Racing Sales Manager to develop sales opportunities, sales initiatives & targeted campaigns to deliver sales growth • Create, manage and develop relationships with key individuals, corporates and booking agents to maximise the delivery of profitable business • Work alongside the Racing Sales Manager to manage key accounts for Racing Hospitality Customers to achieve year on year retention & growth • Proactively cross sell across Sponsorship, Conference & Events and The Lodge • Prepare detailed and accurate proposals and contract documents • Produce a proactive monthly sales report; confirming the completion of account management and new business activity against agreed targets • Attend client appointments, exhibitions and events • Host and entertain potential partners at Newbury Racecourse • Assist in building and enhancing long term client relationships, increasing client retention and referrals and building new business

You will be able to demonstrate: • Exceptional communication and negotiation skills combined with a flair for customer interaction • Significant proactive sales experience • Comprehensive understanding of budgets, forecasting and associated deliverables • Motivation and enthusiasm, for both the position and the Racecourse • Excellent organisational and administrative skills • A positive, proactive attitude

In return we offer a competitive salary and attractive benefits scheme including; • 25 days holiday per year + Bank Holidays + days in lieu for weekend racedays worked • Free annual membership to the Racecourse + complimentary tickets • Reduced rate childcare at the Rocking Horse Nursery on-site • Contributory pension scheme matched up to 5% • Private healthcare scheme • Life assurance scheme • Discounted Health Club membership • Excellent opportunities for training and career growth.

To apply please email your CV and covering letter including remuneration details to Hugh Nickerson at Conundrum Consulting Ltd. [email protected] Quoting reference number JID1119 in the email subject line All direct and third party responses will be forwarded to Conundrum.

27 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page JOB BOARD

MARKETING MANAGER Competitive Salary + Benefits

Newbury Racecourse is an award-winning sporting venue with a multi-functional site playing host to c. 30 racedays per year, plus a wide range of other exciting events including concerts, weddings and exhibitions. In 2020 we will deliver over 200 event days; including two raceday concerts, the Al Shaqab Lockinge with Ladies Day, the Ladbrokes Winter Carnival and a host of other themed events.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced marketing professional who is ambitious, dynamic and highly creative with a desire to progress and grow. Working closely with the Director of Marcomms and Sponsorship, you will be responsible for planning, executing and reporting on all raceday marketing activity in order to grow attendance and revenue.

The successful candidate in this role will: • Have extensive and demonstrable experience as a marketing professional, specifically in deploying marketing spend and activity (online and offline) to meet commercial targets including customer acquisition and retention • Be confident with the management processes of planning, communication, implementation, analysis and reporting • Have experience of leading, motivating and developing direct reports • Have a good working knowledge of key routes to market and explore new ones: specifically, digital marketing routes including email, web, social, PPC, display, affiliates and analytics • Have experience of successfully managing agency relationships • Be familiar with effective budget management • Pride themselves on achieving high levels of customer satisfaction • Have strong IT and administration skills and demonstrate excellent attention to detail • Be an organised team player who is self-motivated, shows initiative and flexibility and thrives in a fast-paced environment

Marketing experience in a venue, racing / sporting or leisure environment would be advantageous but not essential, and we are open to considering applications from those with transferable business skills.

In return we can offer a competitive salary and attractive benefits scheme including: • 25 days holiday per year + Bank Holidays + days in lieu for weekend racedays worked • Free annual membership to the Racecourse + complimentary tickets • Reduced rate childcare at the Rocking Horse Nursery on-site • Contributory pension scheme matched up to 5% • Private healthcare scheme • Life assurance scheme • Discounted Health Club membership • Excellent opportunities for training and career growth.

To apply please email your CV and covering letter including remuneration details to Hugh Nickerson at Conundrum Consulting Ltd. [email protected] Quoting reference number JID1117 in the email subject line All direct and third party responses will be forwarded to Conundrum.

28 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page 29 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page DIARY DATES

Wednesday 19 February GBR Board Tuesday 25 February RCA Racing Group Tuesday 25 February BHA Fixtures & Funding Group Tuesday 25 February RaceTech Board Wednesay 26 February Pony Racing Authority Wednesday 26 February Pontefract Press Lunch Wednesday 26 February HBLB Friday 28 February BHA Racing Group

Tuesday 3 March RCA Board

CONTRIBUTORS

Tansy Challis 07709 954620 [email protected] Lucy Gurney 07387 260980 [email protected] Kate Hills 07813947201 [email protected] Pip Kirkby 0207 152 0200 [email protected] Olivia May 01638 661321 [email protected] Camilla Perrett 0207 152 0198 [email protected] Clare Rogerson 0750 873 3750 [email protected] Rob Sage 07798 655427 [email protected]

RCA STAFF CONTACT LIST

David Armstrong 01344 873538 [email protected] Katya Browne 01344 873536 [email protected] Andy Clifton 01344 625723 [email protected] Holly Cook 01344 873536 [email protected] Caroline Davies 01344 873536 [email protected] Dan Franzen 01344 873537 [email protected] Matthew Jones 01344 873536 [email protected] Paul Swain 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

30 | RCA Update Newsletter 2020 Back to content page