The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has unveiled a fresh governance framework for horse racing. This framework is crafted to aid the sport in its expansion and the creation of a novel strategy for the future.
The new framework encompasses a Commercial Board and an Integrity Advisory Board. Moreover, a new Industry Project Group will be established to assist with crucial strategic objectives for horse racing.
The Commercial Board will convene monthly to supervise the operations of existing racecourse and funding entities, the racing group, and the betting strategy group. The board will also formulate industry strategic domains with a commercial emphasis. This will encompass racing products, racing promotion, and initiatives targeted at key stakeholders, such as owners and bettors.
The board will be spearheaded by David Jones, an independent non-executive director of the BHA. Additional members include BHA Chief Executive Julie Harrington, BHA Chief Operating Officer Richard Wayman, Racecourse Association (RCA) Chief Executive David Armstrong, Jockey Club Chief Executive Martin Cruddace, and the Horserace Betting Levy Board Chief Executive Nevin Truesdale.
The Ethics Advisory Panel will offer strategic guidance to the BHA Board and propose solutions for issues related to the sport’s honesty. The panel will convene four times annually.
The panel will be comprised of BHA’s Jones, independent disciplinary official Patrick Russell, BHA Chief Regulatory Officer Brant Dunshea, and BHA Director of Ethics and Regulation Tim Naylor. BHA’s independent non-executive director Raji Pack will preside over the panel.
Moreover, an industry working group will contribute to strategy in areas such as equine well-being, industry personnel, equality, diversity and inclusion, corporate social responsibility, public acceptance and environmental sustainability.
The working group will be led by Harrington and will include three members each designated by the RCA and the BHA’s Thoroughbred Group. BHA Director of Strategy and Change Alison Enticknap, along with representatives from the Racehorse Betting Levy Board and the Racehorse Welfare Foundation will also be part of the working group.
“The accomplishment of the new governance framework is a considerable step forward in the British racing industry’s plan to ensure the future success of racing,” stated Harrington.
“This new framework not only provides a foundation for establishing progress but also clarifies the BHA’s role as the governing and regulatory body of the sport.”
Representing RCA and the Thoroughbred Group, I am certain this structure will aid us in making more informed choices regarding our operations and strategic direction.”
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