february 2020 update - racecourse association
TRANSCRIPT
February 2020w
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.racecourseassociation.co.uk
update newsletter
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WelcomeCommunity EngagementCarlisle Support ServicesAs Proud as Ponte'Go North'RCA Medical, Racing & Turf Conf.RCA Technical GroupRacecourse Groundstaff CousesBadges & Pass 2019Racegoers ClubFive Minutes of FameGBRIRacing to SchoolRacing TogetherBath RacecourseRacing FoundationRaceTechROABritbetTBAWatt FencesDuralockJob BoardRacing TV PJA ProAmDiary Dates / Contributors / Staff Contact List
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CONTENTS
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Do you know what the fourth most common tongue in Britain is?
Me neither, but after some research it turns out that British Sign Language is currently the fourth most popularly used language across the nation. This is also akin to what we learnt at
the Showcase Seminar in 2018 as the Beverley Racecourse team took the ingenious move of including a sign language interpreter within their presentation to share their award-winning deaf-friendly raceday.
The reason this is so prevalent is that at the recent Grand National weights launch, Aintree ambassador Laura Wright’s stunning performance of Imagine was accompanied by the Liverpool Signing Choir (and ITV’s Ed Chamberlin!) who were able to interpret the lyrics to the audience. You can view the footage here.
Such gestures demonstrate how the sport is keen to promote inclusive initiatives such as the LSC at the highest level. Community engagement and social inclusion run hand in hand, and in February’s Update we’re proud to share details of racecourses’ community engagement initiatives which have continued to grow, positively impacting 100,000s of lives in the process.
Another of the sport’s new initiatives to embrace inclusivity was on display at Ascot at the recent Carlisle Support Services Innovation Lab where Joanna Wales discussed the royal track’s approach to customer inclusion in a keynote speech. Full details, plus notes from other speakers, are included in the coming pages.
Ever in the quest of knowledge, our Racecourse Services Team have recently returned from Doncaster after hosting the RCA’s multiday Medical, Veterinary, Racing and Turf Management Conference. This three-day event is a significant forum for medical, vetinerary, turf management and racing professionals to gather and share best practice, not to mention host the annual blow football tournament.
You can read all the latest from across the worlds of racecourses and the wider sport, in February’s Update.
Words by Paul Swain
WELCOME
Imagine: Laura Wright and the Liverpool Signing Choir perform at the Randox Health Grand National Weights Launch
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NEWS FROM THE RCA
The latest from Community Engagement, RCA Technical Group, Racecourse Groundstaff Courses and the Racegoers Club.
BRITISH RACECOURSES SHARE SIGNIFICANT COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT FOOTPRINT
Racing Together and the Racecourse Association (RCA) are delighted to publish details of the 2019 racecourse audit on community engagement activity.
Over 90% of British racecourses have shared details of last year’s community engagement activities as part of the annual survey, which covered topics such as volunteering, fundraising, donations raised and charity partnerships.
Two stand-out examples of racing’s contribution to community causes are York Racecourse’s established Macmillan Raceday, which raised over £600,000 last year, and the Magnolia Cup at Goodwood, which was a huge success in promoting the charity’s work and by contributing almost £200,000 in funds for Wellbeing of Women.
Almost 50,000 tickets were donated to the charity Tickets for Troops, and racecourses routinely support their local charities and causes in this way. Racing to School welcomed a record 15,000 young people across 372 activity learning days, the majority of which
were hosted at racecourses.
The survey revealed that 64% of respondents have an established community programme, with 89% discussing community and CSR reports at a senior level. Community partnerships are now commonplace - 80% in 2019. Almost three quarters of respondents donate excess food and flowers to local good causes when fixtures are abandoned.
• Links to individual case studies here: http://www.racingtogether.co.uk/case-studies/
• Link to photos and videos from 2019 community engagement activity: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/15lmhc1ii00y1c4/dwm4m8pS6p8gJuK6V1ijBa?dl=0
• View and download the Racing Together brochure showcasing racing’s community engagement activity here: http://www.racingtogether.co.uk/resources/
Lucy Gurney, Community Engagement Manager at Racing Together said: “We know that community engagement
activity has been growing across racing, and to see this evidenced in these results is brilliant.
“We are proud to support and showcase racing’s community engagement activity and look forward to continuing to help racecourses and racing businesses to be a force for good in their local communities this year. Racing Together Community Day, racing’s national day of volunteering, takes place on Thursday 7th May.”
Paul Swain, Brand & Experience Manager at the RCA, commented: “The Racing Together audit has given us a multitude of good stories which demonstrate that as well as being first-class sporting venues, British Racecourses can leverage the power of racing to serve as hubs which benefit the interests of their local communities.
“Alongside Racing Together, the RCA is excited to continue to work with our member racecourses to promote community engagement and share both the significant impact and fantastic stories generated with the nation.”
• 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
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ASCOT RACECOURSE STAR IN THE 2020 CARLISLE SUPPORT SERVICES INNOVATION LABThe 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 workforce and reduce attrition rates during the five-day Royal Meeting.
The keynote speaker of the seminar was the 2003 Rugby World Cup winning coach Sir Clive Woodward. Sir Clive’s presentation, entitled The DNA of a Champion, drew on his vast knowledge and experience from the worlds of professional sport and business to showcase the characteristics that all champions need to exhibit. Later in
the day former Olympic Rower Alex Partridge spoke about the highs and lows of his career in professional sports and the challenges he had to overcome on and off the water.
The RCA’s Brand & Experience Executive Matt Jones commented “It was brilliant to attend the CSS Innovation Lab at Ascot Racecourse alongside a host of other racecourse representatives. It was great to see
a racecourse be chosen to host the event and to listen to Joanna share the learnings from Ascot’s staff engagement programme to the delegates and businesses in attendance. The presentations from Sir Clive Woodward and Alex Partridge were inspirational and helped to bring a completely fresh perspective to team engagement and staff mindset."
Sir Clive Woodward presents on the DNA of a Champion
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
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Hammill has other developments on his mind, especially after being invited to present Pontefract’s vision at a seminar organised by Horse Racing Ireland in Kilkenny in January.
“It was quite daunting,” he says. “I wasn’t only representing Pontefract but also the RCA and its champions award. I’m relatively new to speaking at events such as this, and certainly not going solo for 45 minutes to an hour. I did a practice and it only took about 35 minutes, but once I got started, they couldn’t shut me up. I suppose I’ve learned from the master, Mr Gundill."
This year, the close-knit Pontefract team will welcome a new member to their ranks with the arrival of Leeds University graduate Amber Hunt.
Hammill explains: “Mr Gundill is slowly trying to come in on fewer days, and
there is a succession plan in place, but we can’t get there while I’m doing all the marketing. Amber has no background in racing, which we thought would be a benefit. We want her to bring in fresh ideas from outside, which we can use or adapt for racing.”
Hunt will eventually look at ways of expanding Pontefract’s non-raceday business, Hammill adds, saying: “At the moment we’re like a shop that only opens 16 days a year, yet we’ve got fantastic facilities, we’re in an amazing location for transport and views, plenty of parking, but the stands sit empty for most of the year. So non-raceday functions is an area we want to focus on, without taking away from the racing operation.”
Hammill is beginning to appreciate that with success comes scrutiny, which will intensify when Pontefract opens its
gates for the first time in 2020 on 7th April.
“One of the things that didn’t really dawn on us immediately was the pressure that comes with winning Showcase,” he says. “While we ordinarily have ideas, a marketing plan and improvements we want to make year on year, we now have a lot of eyes on us, watching these improvements, and we have to uphold our end of the bargain by continuing to push forward and do exciting things.
“The top line and the bottom line is that we want to improve. We have probably punched above our weight and we’ll keep on punching. We are the champion racecourse, but there’s still a lot we want to do.”
Norman Gundill took the plaudits and gave the first interview when Pontefract Racecourse was crowned RCA Showcase champion for 2019, but the man who has been the driving force behind the Yorkshire track since becoming Managing Director in 1975 was only too happy to hand the credit to his in-house team of Chief Operating Officer Richard Hammill, Caroline Street, Nicola Cawood and Carol Nickels.
Looking back on the November night at Hamilton Park when Pontefract lifted the ultimate prize, Gundill says: “It was unbelievable. It wasn’t just the winning, it was the reception we got and the way that people seemed to be so pleased for us.
“It’s a great accolade for a small racecourse that operates with a small staff and on a limited budget. I was very humbled, not for myself but for Richard and the team. I’m not a marketing man and I’ve let him get on with that side of things, so the Showcase award is a wonderful tribute to what he’s achieved.”
Hammill too retains a sense of amazement. “It still feels surreal, because we never really considered it was something we could achieve,” he
says. “I keep thinking someone is going to turn up and say, ‘OK, you’ve had it for a couple of months, now’s the time to take it away.’
Pontefract’s overall success was preceded by victory in the Events category, built on entering the Guinness Book of World Records for assembling the most number of people into the shape of a whippet at the course’s Flat Cap and Whippet family day.
Hammill explains the background: “We’re always looking for different things to do, and initially I came up with the idea of trying to break the world record for the number of people wearing flat caps. Guinness said we would need over 10,000 to qualify, and although we thought we might just about get that many for the total crowd, we couldn’t guarantee they would all be wearing flat caps. So instead, we came up with the idea of forming the shape of a whippet.
“Flat caps didn’t feature at all initially, but Guinness has strict rules about setting world records and everyone had to have matching tops and headgear, so the flat caps came back in and we did special tee shirts as a memento.”
More than 500 people were needed to set the record, and with the help of pre-meeting advertising, the final tally of 763 comfortably established a new mark.
Hammill recalls: “We found that people were booking purely to be part of the world record, and on the day, when we held the event at 1pm, racegoers were queuing to get into the area we’d set aside, looping all round the bookmakers in front of the stands, using both entrances in the paddock and the picnic area.
“We’re a very close-knit team here and all but one lady from the office, who had to take care of the phones, was out lending a hand. Even Mrs Gundill and her friend got involved handing out tee shirts.
“The fact it was a full team effort was one of the things that made it so worthwhile. We’d all had such input and ownership over the event, and there was no way it wasn’t going to succeed. We were going to set the world record come hell or high water, and we did.”
AS PROUD AS PONTE—SHOWCASE CHAMPIONS 2019
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Tickets are now on sale for the first ever Racing Post ‘Go North’ Weekend, three exciting days of jump racing and behind-the-scenes access coming to the north of England and Scotland in March as part of an initiative to boost jump racing in the region led by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and sponsored by the Racing Post.
A total of £400,000 in prize money is on offer across three fixtures:
• Friday 20th March – Musselburgh Racecourse
• Saturday 21st March – Kelso Racecourse
• Sunday 22nd March – Carlisle Racecourse
With all three fixtures accompanied by local trainers opening their yards on the morning of each day, offering the public behind-the-scenes insight into the industry before enjoying a day at the races:
• Friday 20th March – Nick Alexander, Lucinda Russell
• Saturday 21st March – Stuart Coltherd, Rose Dobbin, Katie Scott, Sandy Thomson
• Sunday 22nd March – James Ewart, Iain Jardine, Nicky Richards
A weekend ticket which covers all three days of racing will be available for £40 with tickets also available for each individual fixture.
A discounted weekend ticket will be available for Racing Post readers and members which will give access to three days of racing and stable visits for just £30.
The weekend’s racing will feature all seven finals of the Northern Lights Series spread across the Musselburgh and Carlisle meetings, with Kelso’s fixture televised live on ITV.
There will be Retraining of Racehorses parades focused on former regulars at northern Jumps courses, with each racecourse also staging an exhibition on the history of northern Jump racing. A prize for the top trainer/jockey/owner of the three fixtures will be presented at Carlisle on Sunday 22 March.
What they said…
Musselburgh Racecourse Chief Executive Bill Farnsworth: “We’re very much looking forward to kicking off Racing Post ‘Go North’ Weekend, and it’s shaping up to be a great event for owners, trainers, jockeys and racegoers based in the region.“Friday’s card will be an extremely competitive one and there will be plenty on offer both on and off the track to showcase Jump racing in this part of the world.”Kelso Racecourse Managing Director Jonathan Garratt: “This region has a wealth of equine and human talent when it comes to racing, as well as other equine disciplines.“To be able to highlight this on what
is already one of our most valuable and high-quality fixtures is a great opportunity for Kelso and the wider area."Carlisle Racecourse General Manager Molly Dingwall said: “It’s great to be staging the finale of three days of exciting Jump racing and behind-the-scenes access for racegoers and with four Northern Lights Series finals, the racing on offer is sure to be fiercely fought.“We’ll be crowning the top owner, trainer and jockey of the weekend too and we’re excited about rounding off what should be a brilliant weekend for Jump racing in the North.”Paul Johnson, Head of Racing & Racecourse at the BHA, said: “The Go North Weekend is shaping up to be a great weekend which shines the spotlight on some of the fantastic horses, jockeys, trainers and owners based in the region.“With some of the biggest trainers in the area also opening their yards to the public on the morning of each day, it will be a great chance for the public to get behind-the-scenes of the sport.”Tom Kerr, Editor of the Racing Post: “We’re proud to be sponsoring the inaugural Racing Post ‘Go North’ Weekend, which is all about celebrating, promoting and supporting the sport in Scotland and the North. This is a superb initiative and we’re genuinely thrilled to be involved in what is set to be three great days’ racing and yard visits.”
INAUGURAL RACING POST ‘GO NORTH’ WEEKEND LAUNCHED
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The RCA Medical, Veterinary, Racing and Turf Management Conference was held on Monday 10, Tuesday 11 and Wednesday 12 February at Doncaster Racecourse. We would like to thank all
of the speakers and delegates for their input across the three days, and our sponsors Duralock for their generous support of the event.
A full report of the Conference will be included in the March issue of RCA Update.
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RCA TECHNICAL GROUP
The date and location for the forthcoming Racecourse Groundstaff Course has been finalised as follows:
Level 1 Racecourse: Turf Maintenance - 6-7 April 2020, Cheltenham Racecourse
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
RACECOURSE GROUNDSTAFF COURSES
The RCA Technical Group met on Wednesday 22 January 2020. A summary of the key points and action points is provided below:
Stop Race ProcedureThe Group discussed the stop race procedure and received an update on wider discussions on this topic.
Charity Race Guidance Document The Group agreed no further changes would be made to the Charity Race Guidance Document at this time.
Going GroupThe Group reviewed and discussed the objectives to be put forward by the RCA for the BHA Going Group.
BiosecurityThe Group discussed biosecurity and would follow up with NTF as appropriate.
Safeguarding The Group discussed the safeguarding requirements in Jockeys Saunas and would follow up as appropriate with the PJA and BHA.
Red Hoods The Group discussed Red Hoods worn to the Start and would follow up with BHA and NTF as appropriate.
Media The Group discussed the information and education received by members of Racing Media and would discuss with the BHA how this could be further developed.
Training for Stewards Panel ChairsThe Group was provided with a summary of the BHA training proposals for stewards’ panel chairs and provided feedback.
The Meeting was attended by:
Holly Cook (Chair) Edward ArkellKatya Browne Simon Claisse Roderick Duncan Dale Gibson (PJA)James Grey (RaceTech)Sally Iggulden Richard Linley (BHA)Sophia Monkman (RaceTech)Anthea MorsheadGeorge Noad (NTF) Jon Pullin Jimmy Stevenson Kirkland Tellwright Sulekha Varma Lydia Hislop (BHA)
Lingfield Park All Weather
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BADGES & PASS 2020
The need-to-knows
Badge Posters for Racecourses only
Eight copies of the large poster and four copies of the A4 sized poster for 2020 have been sent to all racecourses. Extra copies and electronic copies are available on request from Carol Walker
RCA & Media Accreditation Lists for Racecourses only
Copies of the lists of 2020 RCA and Media Accreditation holders are available on request for racecourses only from Carol Walker
2020 Missing Badges
RCA: 56, 328, 337, 374, 928, 929, 930, 931, 932, 956, 957, 958, 959, 1159, 1367, 1875, 2627Media: PJA: NTF: 390, 391, 578, 579, 580, 581, 582, 646, 647, 779, 780, 830, 831, 998, 999, 1342, 1343
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Away from the racecourse January also saw members of the newly form Ownership Group with Dan Skelton head to his yard to meet our new Leading Light x Bonnie Parker filly. Members got to see her at work with some of Dan’s other younger horses and had the opportunity to say hello to the horses during a tour of his smaller yard.
Racegoers Club Chairman Caroline
Davies commented “There has already been a lot for Club members to enjoy in 2020 with the visits to Dan Skelton’s and Doncaster Racecourse being particular highlights. Alongside this January also saw members enjoy six complimentary racedays at five different racecourses and there are lots more for members to make the most of throughout the month of February.
“Looking ahead to the rest of 2020
the Racegoers Club team have been busy booking events at some of the Club’s favourite racecourses and stable visits to top training yards. Finally, I’d like to take the opportunity thank the racecourses and trainers that have been so welcoming and supportive of the Club already this year.”
If you’d like to find out more about Racegoers Club head to the Club website at www.racegoersclub.co.uk
Doncaster Racecourse - Sky Bet Chase Raceday
Sky Bet Chase day at Doncaster Racecourse saw around 25 Racegoers Club members head to the Yorkshire track to enjoy the graded racing action from the comfort of a private box. The day didn’t disappoint with fantastic wins for northern favourite Lady Buttons,
Cheltenham Festival hopeful Mister Fisher and an impressive 17 length victory for Ramses De Teillee.
With brilliant views of all the racing action from the private box and some fantastic Yorkshire hospitality its safe to say a good day was had by all. A special thank you goes to Racegoers Club Committee member Paul Seviour who hosted members on the day.
OUT AND ABOUT WITH THE CLUBWords by Matt Jones
Members of the newly formed Dan Skelton Ownership Group meeting the Club filly for the first time
Dan Skelton Ownership Group Yard Visit
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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.
On what day of the week were you born and what was number one in the charts?Monday, it was the start of Wimbledon, Thatcher was prime minster, and Two Tribes- Frankie Goes to Hollywood was No1 in the charts.
When you were a child what did you want to be when you grew up?When I was really little, I wanted to be a Postman, so I could walk lots, see lots of different houses and meet people. I didn’t account for the barking dogs, and British weather!
What’s your guilty pleasure?I stay up far too late watching Netflix, an upcoming theme is a great excuse- 6 series of Peaky Blinders blitzed in a few weeks. Smashed it.
What makes you tick?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.
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 renovation project that seems to never end.
If you were writing your autobiography the name of it would be...‘The left of center’ by Emma Rouse.
What do you find most rewarding?When a marketing campaign makes a positive difference to someone’s life, and we can have a role in making memories.
What is your most bizarre talent?It’s not bizarre, but I can sprint pretty quickly. It comes in handy at School Sports Days- major mum points!
What is something about you that most people don’t know?I once did a Skydive and free fell at 170mph, for a mile and a half, all in aid of muscular dystrophy.
Emma Rouse
Head of Marketing
Doncaster Racecourse
MINUTES OF FAME 5
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GOING GLOBAL
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 Leopardstown Racecourse’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.
Sales update
The Goffs UK January Sale at Doncaster produced a new sale record with Gold Cup winning trainer Henrietta Knight going to £370,000 to secure smart debut bumper winner Keskonrisk. The sale as a whole saw a diverse buying bench and the although there were 35
less horses, last year’s turnover was exceeded, demonstrating strength in the National Hunt market.
The Tattersalls February Sale was a truly international affair, welcoming buyers from 30 different countries. Despite
the significantly smaller catalogue, the sale saw its third highest turnover since its inception in 2000, with the top price of 200,000 guineas given for Stakes winner I’ll Have Another, surpassing last year’s top price.
Words by Camilla Perrett
Honeysuckle winning the Grade 1 Irish Champion Hurdle
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.
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Racing to School is planning to eclipse last year’s record participation and the team were straight back in action at the end of the school holidays in January. The month was one of our busiest, delivering 32 events to over 1,100 young people. To reach our target, we’ll need to maintain this early pace and look forward to working with so many in the sport across the country.
We are also running our most events at Equine Colleges in the first quarter, with 27 Colleges and 700 young people set to take part in the Riders’ Programme before the end of March. These activity days are arranged in close partnership with the BHA’s Careers in Racing team and aim to encourage young people who already ride or have an interest in equestrianism to consider racing as a
possible training and career route.
We’re pleased to report that six students from our Programme are applying to the Introduction to Racing Course at the British Racing School in May.
Words by Rob Sage
RACING INTO 2020 – JANUARY SETS THE TONE FOR ANOTHERGREAT YEAR
Thank You Booklet a Great Surprise
We never get bored of receiving positive feedback on the impact of our activity days from our beneficiaries. However, we really were humbled to read a fantastic thank you booklet sent to us in January. The book of individual letters was put together by pupils from St Nicolas Church of England Junior School, describing their Racing to School day at Newbury.
Some of the pictures are showcased here, but we think Freddie comments sum up the positive experience of all his classmates: “It was the best opportunity I (have) ever had, my opinion of horseracing has definitely gone up. I had (the) most fun at the weighing room, seeing how much I weighed and what weigh you had to be to ride the horses.”
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Thank you to everyone who submitted information to the Racing Together community survey; 54 racecourse and racecourse group responses showed the highest figures for activity in the short history of the annual audit.
A record 89% of respondents told us that community and CSR activity is discussed at a senior level (up from 76%), while recorded volunteering activity has almost doubled from 1,673 hours in 2018 to 3,081 hours
by racecourse teams in 2019. Visit the Racing Together website to see case studies on individual community programmes and to learn more.
Words by Lucy Gurney
RACECOURSES POST IMPRESSIVE COMMUNITY NUMBERS FOR 2019
• Over £2.2m fundraised and donated through racecourse charitable activity during 2019 for 250+ charities
• 449 racecourse team members volunteered 3,000+ hours
• 10,382 free tickets claimed through Tickets for Troops
• Racing’s national day of volunteering, Racing Together Community Day saw 65 racing teams volunteering in their local area
• 372 free, curriculum-based school trips were hosted at racecourses in 2019 for 15,011 students
Just Three Months To Go!
Racing Together Community Day takes place on Thursday 7th May.
This year looks set to be bigger and better yet, with activity taking shape nationwide.
To sign up, and for help finding suitable activities and local causes to support, speak to Lucy: [email protected]
Racing on or near the day?
We know it’s a busy time of year – simply schedule your activity at a time that suits your team better but still please make an announcement about it and support the day on your social media channels on 7th May.
Find out more: http://www.racingtogether.co.uk/racing-together-community-day/
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BATH RACECOURSE REVEALS SUPERB £100K+ CHARITABLE DONATION IN RACING TOGETHER AUDIT Bath Racecourse has revealed its total charitable and community contribution for 2019 as part of the annual Racing Together audit in which all racecourses log appropriate activity throughout the past year.
As well as donating more than £100,000 worth of tickets to local residents, the armed forces, NHS and emergency services staff, and local charities, Bath’s other notable achievements during the year included MJ Church’s charity raceday in May, which raised more than £36,000 for the RUH Forever Friend’s Appeal, and £5,000 raised for Cancer Research UK on Ladies Day.
Bath Racecourse’s Acting General Manager, Maddie Difazio-Wright, said: “There’s so much good activity
happening at Bath Racecourse to support local charities and the local community that we felt it was time to shout about it a bit more!
“Last year, we donated more than 2,000 tickets and hospitality packages to local and horse racing charities for them to use as raffle and auction prizes; and we had 15 different charities attend an exciting horse racing fixtures to bucket collect – raising more than £3,000 between them.
“We are so proud to have been involved with MJ Church’s hugely successful charity raceday, which in the past four years has raised more than a staggering £109,000 for the RUH Forever Friends Appeal; it’s fantastic to see so many people here having fun at the races
whilst also supporting a wonderful cause.
“We’re a small, busy team but we are keen to offer support to local and horse racing charities so it’s been an illuminating process pulling together what we contributed last year. I know we will continue to support more charities in 2020.”
The RCA’s Brand & Experience Manager Paul Swain added “Bath Racecourse’s contribution to the local community and its charitable partners highlights the power of racing and that of racecourses within their locality. The initiatives promoted by Bath over the past year are fantastic and.
“The Racing Together audit has given us a multitude of good stories which demonstrate that as well
as being first-class sporting venues, racecourses can serve as hubs from which to serve the interests of their local communities. Alongside Racing Together, we’re excited to share further information from across Great Britain over the next few months.”
Bath Racecourse’s 2019 Charitable and Local support highlights:
• A huge £36,000 raised for the RUH Forever Friends Appeal via MJ Church’s Charity Raceday
• 2071 racing tickets and raceday hospitality packages given away for charity raffles and auctions worth more than £42,000
• 15 charity bucket collections at horse racing fixtures, raising more than £3,000
• 2,209 tickets given away to local residents, worth £37,000
• 1,189 tickets given away to NHS and Emergency Services employees, worth £20,000
• 134 tickets donated to Armed Forces via ‘Tickets For Troops’ worth £2,500
• Racing’s educational programme, Racing To School, brought 130 children from four local schools to learn math’s skills
• £5,000 raised on Ladies Day for Cancer Research UK via ticket donations and bucket collections
• £4,000 donated equally to Empire Fighting Chance and the Forever Friends Appeal from Bath Racecourse’s owners’ charitable foundation, the Reuben Foundation
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The Racing Foundation is delighted to announce that former TBA Chief Executive, Louise Kemble, has been appointed as a new Trustee and will replace Jane Keir, whose extended term has come to an end.
Louise has an impressive track record in the racing and breeding industries and now runs Elms Bloodstock from her stud farm in Northamptonshire. She also holds the post of Secretary-General of the Federation of Bloodstock Agents (GB) Ltd; is a member of the Cheltenham Racecourse committee and a director of the Newmarket Stud Farmers Association.
Louise will join Ian Barlow, Linda Bowles, Susannah Gill, Mark Johnston and William Rucker on the Board. The Foundation is also delighted to announce that Mark Johnston has agreed to extend his term by another year.
The Foundation’s Trustees are responsible for ensuring the delivery of its strategic aims and overseeing its grant making, governance and financial affairs. All appointments are agreed by the Foundation’s founding members - British Horseracing Authority, Horsemen’s Group and Racecourse Association. For more information on
all Trustees please visit: https://www.racingfoundation.co.uk/about-us/trustees-and-staff
Words by Tansy Challis
LOUISE KEMBLE APPOINTED AS A NEW TRUSTEE
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: £2,681,129Education, Training and Participation: £1,616,379Equine Welfare: £ 374,380Heritage 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
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Always working ahead, we are in the midst of festival season planning.
RaceTech’s Media department have been working with Aintree Racecourse on a new initiative to promote the Randox Health Grand National 2020 Festival and preceding events.
As visitors arrived at Lime Street Station and crossed the road to St. George’s Hall for the Randox Health, Grand
National Weights Lunch, they will have been treated to exciting highlights of the greatest steeplechase ahead of the Aintree three-day spectacular, on one of Europe’s largest media walls.
Aintree Racecourse have also been working with the Media Department to create innovative solutions for remote content production for the second year running. Trialled in 2019 camera
operators on site sent content back to RaceTech’s offices in London for fast turnaround social media content creation. Now proven technology, RaceTech is happy to be providing this for a second year running. Thank you, Aintree, for putting your faith in RaceTech’s Media Team.
Among the many new initiatives we now offer to racecourses is a full recording 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.
RACETECH
ROA Owners’ Experience Workshops *REMINDER*
Words by Pip Kirkby
INDUSTRY OWNERSHIP STRATEGY: UPDATE
As a reminder the ROA will again be hosting two workshops that will focus on the Racecourse Ownership Experience. They will focus on a review of the 2019 Quality Mark Assessment scheme and trends/key areas, and best practice. The deadline for responses has been extended to: 20 February 2020. • Chester Racecourse on
Wednesday 4 March• Ascot Racecourse on Thursday 5
March
To reserve your place(s), please email [email protected] indicating your racecourse, details of the attendee(s) and dietary requirements plus which workshop you would like to attend.
Ownership Racedays
Again, thanks go to Racecourses for their help in developing the schedule for
the 2020 Racedays – we will be working across the Industry to utilise the Racedays to promote ownership of all types.
The schedule of racedays for the next few months is:
February Bangor Tuesday 18th FebruaryMarch Musselburgh Tuesday 31st March April Sedgefield Tuesday 21st April
Media Walls Make a Big Impact
Words by Kate Hills
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In March 2019, we introduced ‘lucky pick’ bets, with the product quickly becoming one of the standout successes of the last year for our 55 britbet racecourse partners.
Lucky pick bets are similar to a ‘lucky dip’ on the lottery. A smart algorithm selects bets for a customer, weighted towards the most likely outcome to give punters more chance, on average, of winning.
The bet type is aimed primarily at casual ‘daytripper’ racegoers and seek to create a memorable, fun, social raceday experience. They also serve as a great introduction to the Tote and, for more experienced bettors, the
opportunity to try new bets they might not normally choose.
Lucky picks are available for all Tote products and can be bought as a ‘wallet’ with a selection of bet for the whole meeting or for one specific race.
The algorithm that makes the selections for the lucky pick bets has been specifically designed to benefit both the racecourse and the customer as:
• Bets include perms (multiple selections of horses for a race) to give customers more opportunity to win
• ‘Meeting’ wallets (with a selection of bets to cover the entire raceday) include a win and exacta bets for the first race to give a chance of returning some winnings to customers on the first race which can be reinvested on more bets or F&B on the day
• They introduce customers to some more exotic tote bets such as the placepot, quadpot and exacta
• Wins assist in the creation of a memorable raceday experience, particularly for customers in groups or hospitality.
BRITBETWords by Clare Rogerson
2019 Lucky Pick Wins
Pool Name Stake Customer WinningsPlacepot £2 £13,027Trifecta £3 £11,571
Placepot £12 £7,318Placepot £12 £7,318Placepot £4 £5,851Quadpot £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])
Leicester Racecourse are pleased to welcome back David Maykels as new General Manager. No stranger to the racecourse, David previously held the position of General Manager from 2006-2013.
Following his first stint at Leicester, David spent the next six years working for various organisations, mostly within the leisure industry attaining new skills and experiences.
David Maykels commented "I am very excited to be back at the Racecourse after 6 years away. I have enjoyed my time working with various different business genres and now need some time to re-engage and familiarise myself with all operations here at the Racecourse.
“Having been a racing fan since the age of 13, this industry always pulls you back, sometimes when you least expect it. I look forward to the future!"
DAVID MAYKELS RETURNS TO LEICESTER RACECOURSE
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The Thoroughbred Club is a social, educational and professional club open to all 16 to 35-year olds with a passion for horseracing and who wish to gain an in-depth insight into the bloodstock industry.
Membership starts from just £25 a year and benefits include exclusive race badge offers, subscription to the Thoroughbred Owner Breeder Magazine, behind-the scenes industry events and much more.
The TTC is a great opportunity to meet with fellow TTC and TBA members as well as getting exclusive access to leading racing and breeding operations
from around the country through various events and offers.
February Badge Offers
Saturday 15 FebruaryAscot Racecourse Ascot Racecourse are kindly offering TTC members the opportunity to purchase two HALF PRICE admission tickets to TTC members at the Betfair Ascot Chase Race day on Saturday 15 February. Tickets can be purchased on the day only by showing a valid TTC membership card at Ticket Office East.
TBA South East Regional Forum – Open to TBA and TTC Members
Friday 14 February Sandown RacecourseTTC members are invited to join the TBA at the South East Regional Forum on Friday 14 February to learn about the latest industry initiatives and projects. The forum is followed by a Q & A session where you can put your questions to representatives of the TBA and Weatherbys. Lunch will be provided and is followed by an enjoyable afternoon of racing.
THE THOROUGHBRED CLUBWords by Olivia May
The National Hunt Mare Owners’ Prize Scheme (NH MOPS) pays cash bonuses to the connections of registered mares that win qualifying bonus races, meaning that NH MOPS races can have up to an additional value of £10,000.
A list of qualifying races in January 2020 and full details of the races (including race titles) can be found here.
Please do not hesitate to contact the TBA office should you wish to confirm which horses are eligible for the cash bonuses.
For more information on NH MOPS and how you can highlight that your course hosts these valuable races, including presentation boards, big screen and racecard adverts, please contact the TBA Office at [email protected] or 01638 661321.
THOROUGHBRED BREEDERS ASSOCIATION
National Hunt Mare Owners' Prize Scheme
Course Name Race Date Race No.WETHERBY 01/02/2020 30654TAUNTON 02/02/2020 30682CARLISLE 03/02/2020 30694
HUNTINGDON 06/02/2020 30757BANGOR-ON-DEE 07/02/2020 30762
WARWICK 08/02/2020 30803EXETER 09/02/2020 30812
WETHERBY 12/02/2020 30878FONTWELL PARK 13/02/2020 30885SANDOWN PARK 14/02/2020 30921
ASCOT 15/02/2020 30937MARKET RASEN 16/02/2020 30964
TAUNTON 18/02/2020 31003LUDLOW 19/02/2020 31022EXETER 21/02/2020 31056
WARWICK 21/02/2020 31067NEWCASTLE 22/02/2020 31096
CARLISLE 24/02/2020 31127DONCASTER 28/02/2020 31206
NEWBURY 28/02/2020 31227DONCASTER 29/02/2020 31213
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NEWS FROM OUR PARTNERS
A word from partners of the RCA : Watt Fences, Duralock and the Job Board
WATT FENCES
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.
Running Rails
WEBSITE TELEPHONE EMAIL www.wattfences.com +44 (0)1748822666 [email protected]
Watt Fences Ltd, Broken Brea Farm, Easby, North Yorkshire, DL10 7EY
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.
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DURALOCK
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
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
• DURALOCK CROWD BARRIERS •
CONTACT US TODAY TO DISCUSS ANY FENCING PROJECTS
Crowd Barrier With Tube Crowd Barrier With Mesh
"Chantilly" Crowd Barrier Picket Fencing
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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 Newbury Racecourse 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.
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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.
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Tansy ChallisLucy GurneyKate HillsPip KirkbyOlivia MayCamilla PerrettClare RogersonRob Sage
07709 95462007387 260980078139472010207 152 020001638 6613210207 152 01980750 873 375007798 655427
[email protected]@[email protected]@[email protected]@[email protected]@racingtoschool.co.uk
David ArmstrongKatya BrowneAndy CliftonHolly Cook Caroline Davies Dan FranzenMatthew JonesPaul Swain Jackie Tizzard Carol Walker Kevin Walsh
EDITOR: Carol Walker The Racecourse Association Ltd
UPDATE is also available on our website:www.racecourseassociation.co.uk
01344 87353801344 87353601344 62572301344 873536 01344 873536 01344 87353701344 87353601344 873536 01344 873537 01344 87353601344 625723
[email protected]@racecourseassociation.co.ukandy.clifton@racecourseassociation.co.ukholly.cook@racecourseassociation.co.uk [email protected] [email protected]@racecourseassociation.co.ukpaul.swain@racecourseassociation.co.uk [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
Wednesday 19 February GBR BoardTuesday 25 February RCA Racing GroupTuesday 25 February BHA Fixtures & Funding GroupTuesday 25 February RaceTech BoardWednesay 26 February Pony Racing AuthorityWednesday 26 February Pontefract Press LunchWednesday 26 February HBLBFriday 28 February BHA Racing Group
Tuesday 3 March RCA Board
DIARY DATES
CONTRIBUTORS
RCA STAFF CONTACT LIST
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