1. sports
2. horse racing

April 2015
contents
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
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12
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RCA Appoints New Chairman
Good Friday Racing
Charity Race
Racing Together
Bitesize Blog
RCA Food:Live!
Raceday Experience Group
Easter #Top Spot
Easter #Top Spot
GBR
GBRI
BHA
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
BHA
RaceTech
RaceTech
Sponsorship
5 Minutes of Fame
Medical
Medical / Badges & PASS
Technical
Technical
Technical
Technical
Diary Dates / Contributors List
RCA Appoints
Maggie Carver as Chairman
At the end of March, the RCA was delighted to
announce the appointment of Maggie Carver as the
RCA’s next Chairman. Mrs Carver will succeed Ian
Barlow, who retires on 30 June having completed six
years in the role, on Wednesday 1 July.
Mrs Carver, who joined the RCA Board in a nonexecutive role from 1 April, prior to taking over as
Chairman, has a background rich in racing and
television and is currently Chairman of RaceTech, a
subsidiary wholly owned by the RCA. She is, inter alia,
also a director, and past Chairman, of ITN, a former
director of SiS, Channel 5, and leading spread betting
company, Sporting Index.
Her executive roles have included Managing Director of
“Three on Four” (which produced Channel 4 Racing and
operated Global Outside Broadcasting), running a retail
business and strategist to Lord Clive Hollick at United
Business Media. Mrs Carver’s working life began in
investment banking with S.G. Warburg (now UBS).
knowledge and understanding of the media and
broadcast industries. We would also like to take this
opportunity to pay tribute to the contribution Ian Barlow
has made to the RCA and its members through his
leadership over the past six years.’
Mrs Carver will continue as Chairman of RaceTech for
the time being to ensure an orderly transition but would
envisage handing over the chairmanship later this year.
RCA Vice Chairman Vivien Kyles said, ‘We are
delighted to announce the appointment of Maggie
Carver as our next Chairman. She offers a wealth
of experience in a number of areas that are of key
importance to racecourses, including her expert
April 2015
Maggie Carver added, ‘It is an enormous privilege to
take up this key role at such an exciting time for the
RCA and racecourses and I look forward to working with
the Board and serving the Industry.’
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Record Crowd at Second
All-Weather Championships
Finals Day
For the second year in succession, Lingfield Park set
a new record attendance on Good Friday, as they
saw 9,021 racegoers through the gates. Since last
year’s sell-out crowd of 8,777 at the first All-Weather
Championships Finals Day, capacity at the Surrey
course has been increased.
Andrew Perkins, Executive Director at Lingfield Park
Resort, said: "We are delighted to have an increased
attendance and new record crowd figure at our second AllWeather Championships Finals Day.
"All our hospitality areas and the restaurants were sold
out. There is a great atmosphere at Lingfield Park today
and it has been another tremendous day."
turn of foot to outclass his rivals in the feature £200,000
Coral Easter Classic under William Buick.
Racegoers were welcomed onto the racecourse by a
military band, who also played the national anthem before
racing started and there were plenty of other activities on
hand to make sure everyone got the most from their day
out.
North of the border, crowds at Musselburgh enjoyed a card
worth £166,000, including two £50,000 handicaps - before
the equally popular family fun day on Easter Sunday.
Sarah Montgomery, Commercial Manager at Musselburgh
said, "We were delighted to host racing again on Good
Friday and were thrilled with the number of owners and
trainers that were here on the day. Similarly, racegoers
of all ages really enjoyed Sunday's racing, including the
Shetland Pony Gold Cup.
Appearances from both Archie the Horse (the ARC Kids’
Club Mascot) and Dame Judi Dench’s former racehorse
Smokey Oakey helped to engage racegoers of all ages
with the action, with the Horse Comes First campaign
offering a valuable insight into the high levels of welfare
employed throughout British Racing.
We think there is great potential for an Easter Festival of
racing at Musselburgh and we hope that Friday's feature
races, the Balmoral Cup and Royal Mile Handicap, each
worth £50,000, will continue to attract strong support from
owners and trainers across the country. It also provides
an ideal opportunity to attract racegoers from further afield
looking to visit Edinburgh over the Easter Bank Holiday."
Another popular initiative was to allow winning and
placed horses to be unsaddled on the turf in front of the
grandstand, to allow maximum viewing for racegoers.
Similarly, jockeys were able to weigh in in the same place,
before being transported back to the weighing room on
golden buggies!
Congratulations to the teams at ARC, Lingfield Park and
Musselburgh for delivering another fantastic day.
There was similarly positive news on the racing front, with
the Charlie Appleby (who was also named All Weather
Champion Trainer) trained Tryster producing a blistering
April 2015
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Charity Race at The Festival
raises over £230,000 for IJF
The charity Flat race run during The Festival at
Cheltenham in March has generated just over
£230,000 for the Injured Jockeys Fund it has
been announced.
The St Patrick's Derby, whose 12 amateur riders
agreed to raise at least £5,000 each for the charity, took
place over 13 furlongs as the last race on St Patrick's
Thursday, 12 March and was won by James Collins on
Knight's Parade.
Jonathan Mills, Olive Murphy, Andrew Nicholson, Hayley
O'Connor, Emily Scott, Rod Trow and Thomas Williams.
This was the sixth charity Flat race, which previously
benefited Cancer Research UK, at The Festival and
earlier winners of the St Patrick's Derby were TV
presenter Lorna Fowler, Orna Madden, Brian Bunyan,
Vicky Laing and Olympic silver medallist Tina Cook in
2012, just prior to her London glory.
James Collins - Winner on Knight's Parade
Ian Renton, Regional Director of Jockey Club
Racecourses South West, commented: "The amount
of money raised by this year's St Patrick's Derby was
astounding and I am delighted that so much has been
provided for such a worthwhile charity.
Lisa Hancock, Chief Executive of the Injured Jockeys
Fund and a member of the Cheltenham Racecourse
committee, commented: "The Injured Jockeys Fund
is incredibly grateful to all those who rode in and
supported the race.
"I am sure that over £230,000 will go a long way to
helping injured jockeys and I would like to thank all
those selected to ride for their hard work regarding
training and fundraising for the race. The whole team at
Cheltenham is delighted we have been able to offer the
platform of a race at The Festival to charity."
"The amount of money raised is incredible and, with
Jack Berry House nearing completion, could not have
come at a better time."
The Injured Jockeys Fund is a registered charity and
celebrated its 50th anniversary last year.
The other 11 riders who took part, from a huge
application, in the 2015 St Patrick's Derby were Clifford
Baker, Lucy Charnock, Simon Clare, Phillip Clark,
April 2015
Sophia Brudenell
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Racing Together
Aintree revealed as pilot ‘Beacon Racecourse’, Racing’s
flagship centre to increase work with the community
As part of Racing Together, a project with industry-wide
support to create, coordinate and communicate British
Racing’s community outreach, Aintree Racecourse has
been launched as the pilot ‘Beacon Racecourse’.
close to the course. Through the educational schemes we
will be running we are proud to be making a really positive
contribution to our neighbours through the wonderful sport
of horseracing.”
As the first ‘Beacon Racecourse’ in the country Aintree,
which is home to the world-famous Crabbie’s Grand
National, will launch a number of projects in the coming
year focusing initially on educational activities that will
make a real difference to local pupils. These will include
providing careers training, hands on pony days and work
experience opportunities at the famous course. Each of the
projects will be delivered by racecourse staff and others
working within racing and are designed to give something
back to the local community.
The Racecourse Association and Racing Together
Chairman Ian Barlow said, "The Beacon Racecourse is a
key platform to make real the Racing Together project. A
big thanks to the Aintree team for being the first to adopt
the programme by becoming a hub for engagement with
Liverpool's communities. I am sure that the participating
children will learn a great deal about our fantastic sport
and the exciting jobs we offer while improving their school
learning. I hope some might even be future champions".
Lucy Alexander, Ambassador for the Racing Together
Programme said, “'I am delighted to be a part of the
Beacon Racecourse initiative at Aintree. It is a great
platform to demonstrate the vast number of careers
available within British Racing whilst also providing local
children with an exciting addition to their regular school
work. It is important for young people to have their options
clearly presented to them, and racing can provide a
great career. I look forward to participating in some of the
activities later this year!"
A series of ambassadors for the project, including young
jockeys Lucy Alexander and Saul Woods and BHEST’s
Carrie Ford, who famously rode Forest Gunner to win the
Aintree Foxhunter’s Chase in 2004 will also participate in
a number of the activities and demonstrate the benefit of
using the power of racing as an educational tool.
Speaking at the Crabbie’s Grand National Northern Media
Lunch, Clerk of Course and Equine Centre Director
Andrew Tulloch commented, “Aintree Racecourse is right
in the heart of the community and we are committed to
making a positive contribution to the lives of those living
April 2015
Grant Rowley / Paul Swain
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Bitesize Blog
The RCA ‘On Tour’ Blog is
a fantastic free resource for
racecourses detailing the very best
of the events and leisure world.
Here, we sample the first ever ‘On
Tour’ blog which investigated the O2
Arena, the world’s most profitable
venue.
Peninsular ensures that the
weather is often challenging and
the approach on foot does little
to inspire. However, the use of
banners highlighting brand partners,
orientation panels and super
graphics help bring to life the O2’s
short but exciting life.
First stop – The O2
Billed as the world’s most profitable
venue, The O2 is held up by experts
as a trailblazer in the venues sector.
Showcasing the best of American
operations and marketing expertise,
The O2 has set the bar by which
others are judged. For proof just
take a look at the line-up of worldclass acts confirmed as performing,
as well as the mélange of activities
popping up throughout the venue
throughout the year.
A Destination in its Own Right
With a multitude of branded food
and drink outlets in ‘Entertainment
Avenue’ to visit (not including the
outlets serving O2 Arena guests)
the quality and choice of places to
eat and drink before and after an
event is spectacular.
Starting with a positive, take a
look at www.theO2.co.uk for a
masterclass in website structure,
ease of navigation and clarity.
Beautifully merchandised and
thoroughly helpful. For a negative
I give you The O2′s car parking.
Arriving by car, having neglected to
pre-book my parking place on-line, I
was charged a whopping £30, cash,
to park the car!
However, arrival by train on the
Jubilee Line is fast and efficient.
The O2’s location on the Greenwich
April 2015
So much so that The O2 has
become a destination in its own
right and trades seven days a week
from 11.30am until 11pm. Aside
from the arena, there is a theatre,
cinema and exhibition space open
to the public, not to mention the
Emirates Cable Car (installed for
the 2012 Olympics) and new rooftop
viewing experience ‘Up at the O2’.
To view the full blog, and access
many more, please click here.
The ‘On Tour’ Blog is prepared on
behalf of the RCA by brand experts
Harrison:Fraser.
Paul Swain
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RCA Food:Live!
The RCA and Raceday
Experience Group are delighted
to announce the first Live! tour
will take place on Thursday 30
April in London.
For our first tour, we will be taking
a select number of the Raceday
Experience Group around London to
see first-hand the latest trends in food
presentation and service, with clear
take-home action points for racecourses.
The route has been carefully planned by
experts Harrison:Fraser to ensure that
there is something for everyone, and
that we observe some of the capital’s
finest eateries at the cutting edge of
excellence and innovation.
It is intended that additional tours will
run throughout the year, covering a wide
range of topics in a number of locations
around Britain.
We look forward to welcoming you to a
Live! event soon!
Paul Swain
April 2015
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Raceday Experience Group
The Raceday Experience Group met on Monday 16 March 2015.
Each REG meeting is an ideal forum for sharing new ideas, and here’s a selection of what is going on around the
racecourses at the moment:
Racecourse/OrganisationInitiative
Musselburgh
New activities for Easter Family Sunday, including Shetland pony grand national.
York
New champagne terraces for the 2015 season.
ARC
Additional live music nights across all ARC racecourses, including some hosting music for the first time.
JCR
New entrance at Aintree for the Grand National with covered lawn to allow live music to be played upon arrival.
Ascot
Creation of an original tapestry to become the centrepiece of the Royal Ascot advertising campaign.
In addition, please see below
a summary of the key action
points from the meeting.
Responsible Drinking Survey
The RCA was pleased
with the response rate of
56/58 members for the
responsible drinking survey,
which highlighted a number
of new initiatives designed
to promote responsible
drinking on racedays. These
will be disseminated to all
racecourses shortly.
The RCA is liaising with
Drinkaware to provide
wording for all racecourses to
demonstrate their commitment
to the Pace Yourself campaign
for display on racecourse
collateral.
VisitEngland Quality Assured
Racecourse Scheme
The RCA released an
information pack detailing the
2015 assessment scheme,
which is due to begin later
this month. In addition, RCA
Excellence Accolades (in
association with VisitEngland
and VisitScotland) can now
be awarded for specific areas
of excellence around the
racecourse site.
Winning Line Review
A number of racecourses
indicated they would like
to be part of the winning
line review. The RCA will
arrange a working group to
progress this work subject to
the previous research paper
being reviewed.
Sponsorship and Brand
Appeal
Will Collinson and Rosie
Gosling of Corbis presented
the final report of this project
and recommendations arising
to the Group. A masterclass
was agreed as the best
forum to work through the
recommendations, and this
will take place on Wednesday
20 May 2015 at Chester
Racecourse. Full details will
be sent shortly.
Paul Swain
The Meeting was attended by:
Caroline Davies (RCA, Chair)
Bill Bailey (RCA)
Brian Barrass (Doncaster)
David Fraser (Harrison:Fraser)
Rob Hogarth (Musselburgh)
Abi Sawyer (Jockey Club Racecourses)
April 2015
Juliet Slot (Ascot)
Becky Somerton (Jockey Club Racecourses)
Paul Swain (RCA)
Amy Swales (York)
Roscoe Young (Newbury)
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Easter #TopSpot
Easter #TopSpot
Our first seasonal #TopSpot competition has seen some fantastic entries to the #TopSpot gallery, with the winning
racecourse receiving a GIANT Easter Egg for the whole team to enjoy!
We asked racecourses to send in #TopSpots showing how they have used the holiday to engage with their
customers.
The winner will be announced shortly after the deadline on Friday 10 April 2015, and here are just a handful of the
initiatives entered.
Lingfield Park
Lingfield Park used
this gorgeous image
alongside their
marketing for the Good
Friday All-Weather
Championships grand
final to drum up some
additional excitement
for the meeting.
Newmarket
Newmarket placed their branded Easter Egg all over Jockey Club
Racecourses’ Twitter, with special prizes for those that found it
first!
Beverley
Beverley took Herbert the Easter bunny/pony along to St. Mary’s primary
school to share some Easter love and also invite the children and their
parents back to the Westwood for racing.
Kempton Park
Alongside a full
programme of Easter
family activities, Kempton
Park staged a children’s
colouring competition and
Easter Egg hunt with local
councillor Mark Francis
presenting the winning
children with their prizes
on the podium live in front
of the crowds.
Hamilton Park
Hamilton Park set the local children a challenge in the Easter holidays
to design a new mascot for the racecourse.
Remember, you can send in a #TopSpot any time
you like, and look out for more seasonal competitions
throughout the year ahead of the overall winner being
revealed at Showcase 2015!
Paul Swain
April 2015
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April 2015
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Great British Racing
Crabbie’s Grand National Festival
A large part of GBR’s work has been to secure coverage
with media outlets not necessarily associated with racing
ahead of the Crabbie’s Grand National. Coverage has
included the Mail on Sunday interview with up and coming
star Sean Bowen, the Express’ S Magazine interview with
Emma Spencer, FHM interview with Sam Twiston Davies,
a Metro interview with Tom O’Brien and the Evening
Standard with Sam Waley-Cohen.
2013 Grand National winning jockey Ryan Mania was also
on hand to guide us through riding the Grand National
fences which circulated on the GBR digital channels.
Watch the video HERE.
In addition to securing interviews, GBR also worked with
iconic cricket commentator Henry Blofeld paying homage
to AP McCoy ahead of his final ride at Aintree by trying his
hand at calling one of AP McCoy’s greatest moments – his
first and only Grand National win aboard Don’t Push It in
2010. The video can be viewed HERE and has received
over 25,000 views to date. The video has received
coverage on The Guardian website, Channel 4 and the
Press Association, as well as commentary-focused pieces
with the Radio Times, ZOO Magazine and the Daily Star.
All-Weather Championship Finals Day
To mark the start of the seven-horse political race to 10
Downing Street, GBR arranged a photoshoot featuring a
septet of horses at Lingfield Park ahead of its All-Weather
Championship Finals Day on Good Friday.
A photographer and videographer were on hand to capture
the start of the mock race, which saw the political hopefuls
each represented by a jockey who had donned their
respective party colours.
With a flash of the camera, the General Election was
marked in a unique way and the video, which was posted
on GBR’s Facebook page, received over 20,000 views in
the first day, it can be viewed HERE.
The New Great British Racing Website
Over the past few months GBR has been working to
streamline all their digital offerings under one headline
brand. The Love the Races brand has been a great
platform since 2009 for providing information and features
to novice racegoers, but with our online remit expanding
we wanted to be in a position to provide a hub for all racing
fans. Since rebranding the GBR social media audiences
have increased by over 15% and engagement levels have
doubled. The new website will showcase all the bespoke
features and fixture information previously housed on Love
the Races, but with an up-to-date news service, racecards,
results, blogs, restyled Guides and Championship tables.
You can keep up to date with all the latest from GBR by
following @GBRacing on Twitter or Great British Racing
on Facebook.
Libby Britten
April 2015
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Great British Racing
International
The Great British Racing International Members Club 2015
Great British Racing International (GBRI) is in the final
stages of preparation for the official launch of the 2015
GBRI Members Club to coincide with Newmarket’s Craven
Meeting on 15 April.
GBRI have received a positive response from trainers
again this year, with over 30 trainers, both Flat and
National Hunt, having nominated their International Owners
to join the Members Club thus far. The Club will include
members from over 30 countries around the world, ranging
from Australia, Hong Kong and America, to India, Japan
and Russia, as well as Europe and the Middle East.
In partnership with the Racecourse Association (RCA),
The GBRI Members Club ensures that International
Owners can experience the best the sport has to offer, in
recognition of the valuable contribution they make to racing
in Britain.
If you have any feedback or questions regarding the
Members Club please do not hesitate to contact Amy on
0207 152 0132 or [email protected], we
would be delighted to hear from you.
New member’s privileges for this year include a partnership
with the Jockey Club Rooms in Newmarket, Your Golf
Travel and Spa Breaks, in addition to the opportunity to
experience Michelin-starred fine dining and complimentary
access to the Racing Post for iPad Daily Edition.
April 2015
We look forward to working with all racecourses again in
2015.
Grace Bowler
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British Horseracing Authority
Future British Racing business leaders to be created by
Thoroughbred Horseracing Industries MBA
•
•
•
The British Horseracing
Authority, Horserace Betting
Levy Board and University of
Liverpool combine to create new
qualification
MBA course designed to keep
Great Britain at the forefront
of academic training for future
leaders in the thoroughbred
horseracing sector
Applications for one-year
full time or two-year part
time course now open, with
scholarships available
The British Horseracing Authority
(BHA), Horserace Betting Levy
Board (HBLB) and the University
of Liverpool have announced
the launch of the inaugural
Thoroughbred Horseracing
Industries MBA. Applications for the
course are now open, with the first
term beginning in September 2015.
The course is designed for
individuals already working in British
racing or anyone wishing to embark
upon a career in the industry.
Employers within the sport are
also being urged to enrol suitable
employees to the course, so that
their business can benefit from the
expertise of the MBA and develop
future leaders.
April 2015
The programme combines the
modules of a world class MBA with
the specialised needs of the British
and global horseracing industry. The
MBA will address the needs of all
key stakeholders in the industry.
The core elements of the
programme include leadership,
strategy, managing the environment,
innovation, entrepreneurship and
managing financial resources.
Each candidate will also gain
understanding of management of
racecourses and training centres,
marketing, advertising, sponsorship,
bloodstock management and
veterinary issues.
The course offers vocational training
through industry placements and
visits to racecourses, studs, training
facilities, media companies and
companies in the betting industry. It
is a 12 month full-time programme
or 24 month part-time programme,
the latter designed in particular for
candidates in current employment.
Provided by the University of
Liverpool, the programme combines
the expertise of the University’s
Management School in sports
industry management with the
specialist equine knowledge of the
14
School of Veterinary Science and
the University’s world class equine
facilities at its Leahurst campus.
The programme will be led by Tom
Cannon, Professor of Strategic
Development and the University of
Liverpool Management School. The
University of Liverpool also offers a
similar MBA for the football industry
which is rated in the top 10 global
sports MBAs. British Horseracing
has become the first sport after
football to offer such a course.
RCA Chief Executive Stephen Atkin
commented, ‘I think it’s a great
initiative for a number of reasons.
One, it will help attract good people
into the industry and it will also
complement the BHA graduate
scheme that has already proved
very successful’.
There are seven scholarship places
available on the 2015/16 course,
sponsored by a combination of the
BHA, HBLB and the University of
Liverpool. More information about
all aspects of the course can be
found at www.liverpool.ac.uk/
horseracingmba/.
Robin Mounsey
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British Horseracing Authority
Jockey Health and Nutrition Education to
be Subject of Major new Racing PhD
•
•
•
•
Scientific and research PhD
to be co-funded by the BHA
and Liverpool John Moores
University
Study to focus on jockey
nutrition, physiology and health
Outputs will include
comprehensive health education
package for riders and best
practice guides on catering for
racecourses
Three-year paid position open
to applications now
The British Horseracing Authority
(BHA) and Liverpool John Moores
University (LJMU) have announced
the launch of a major PhD study into
jockey nutrition and wellbeing, with
the intention of using the findings to
educate jockeys in better fitness and
dietary practices.
The PhD is co-funded by the
BHA and LJMU and ensures the
availability of scientific, robust
evidence into the physiology and
health of jockeys as well as their
nutritional awareness and practices.
The intention is to use the
findings of the study to create a
comprehensive education package
on good health and nutritional
practices that can be used to
support jockeys’ wellbeing and longterm fitness. The education package
will be built on current provision and
in partnership with the Professional
Jockeys Association (PJA),
Racecourse Association (RCA) and
both the Northern Racing College
and British Racing School.
A best-practices guide will also be
produced for racecourses designing
April
20152015
January
new menus for the jockey changing
rooms. This guide will reflect the
findings in the study, to support
jockeys as they adopt better
nutritional behaviour.
The PhD will last three years and
will be based at LJMU’s Sport and
Exercise Sciences department.
There is one full-time, paid
placement for a PhD-level student to
complete the study and recruitment
for this role is now open. For more
information email:
[email protected].
Research subjects for the study
will largely be recruited from the
Northern Racing College and British
Racing School.
Dr Jerry Hill, Chief Medical Advisor
for the BHA, said: “This PhD
study is an exciting opportunity
for racing to learn more about
the health and dietary habits
of jockeys and enables us to
produce comprehensive health and
nutritional advice.
“Over the years we have, as a
sport, taken significant measures
to improve jockey welfare, but the
findings from this study means we
will further understand the needs of
our riders, meaning we are better
prepared to provide jockeys with the
best possible support required as
professional sportspeople.
“By co-funding the PhD we seek to
safeguard the health and improve
the welfare of jockeys for years to
come.”
Dr Graeme Close, LJMU Reader
in Applied Physiology and Sport
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Nutrition, said: “The introduction of
a PhD is the next stage in LJMU’s
international research study,
focusing on improving jockeys’
performance using a scientific
diet plan that promotes nutritional
awareness and practices. We
continue to undertake work with
high profile jockeys, including
Franny Norton, Frankie Dettori and
Harry Haynes through a partnership
with the HH Sheikh Mansoor Bin
Zayed Al Nahyan Global Arabian
Flat Racing Festival and are
delighted to work with Dr Jerry
Hill and the British Horseracing
Authority.
“Alongside the PhD, this will
provide a comprehensive education
package on good health and
nutritional practices that can be
used to support jockeys and the
racing industry, proving that together
we can make a huge difference.”
Paul Struthers, Chief Executive
of the PJA, said: “Anything that
improves the welfare and wellbeing
provision of jockeys is a good thing
and we therefore support this new
PhD study. This initiative, following
on from the ground-breaking
research of the team at LJMU, will
build on and enhance the existing
work of the PJA’s Nutrition team,
who have done an excellent job
from a very limited budget. The
research will also dovetail nicely
with the ongoing review of jockey
training and will help shape future
training provision in this area.”
Tessa Smyth
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RaceTech
Jockey Club Racecourses and RaceTech
Public Address Services
RaceTech is delighted to announce a new three
year contract with Jockey Club Racecourses for the
provision of raceday PA services. This is the first time
that both parties have contracted in this way, giving the
racecourses the benefit of a long term relationship and
providing opportunities to maximise audio infrastructure
on course at racemeetings, music nights and non-racing
events, while continuing to provide the reliable service
that we always have for raceday PA.
they look to the future and invest in their infrastructure.
No one knows more about audio on racecourses –
amplification required, speaker arrays, controls and
The Broadcast Office is the hub of audio operations on
a race day and the RaceTech engineering team are a
unique blend of technical engineers, combined with a
real understanding of racing and a top dressing of high
customer service skills – working closely with the Clerk
of the Scales to provide a conduit out to Stewards,
officials, the racecourse, other professionals (such as
doctors and vets), as well as providing announcements
to the general public and a primary liaison with the
Commentator and the OB truck. For anyone who wants
to know more about the role of the PA engineer, and
how we manage the multiple stakeholders on a raceday,
we’d be happy to host a visit to the Broadcast Office
and listen in for an hour or two….
mixers for a host of events, not just racing. In addition,
we have resource in-house to test and accredit systems
and can advise on European standards for sporting
venues as well as advise on aesthetics and how to
manage sound within buildings as well as outdoors – a
rare combination that takes specialist skills.
The contract covers tracks in Jockey Club Racecourses’
London, East and South West regions and we look
forward to working ever more closely with these courses
to deliver a top class service as well as encouraging
racecourses to tap into the enormous experience and
skill base within RaceTech in the audio environment as
April 2015
We are greatly appreciative to all racecourses that
support us and this 3 year contract is a firm foundation
for the future of PA services in racing.
Catherine Pullan
16
RaceTech
Update to Scottish Racing Big Screen project
Following the RCA March Update
RaceTech would like to clarify the
new Scottish Racing Big Screen is
in actual fact a full Scottish Racing
Project. RaceTech assisted with
the design and build of the project
which was managed overall by
Scottish Racing. Catherine Pullan
would like to apologise for any
confusion caused. Please find
some additional information on the
new big screen below which I hope
you will find useful.
The new screen replaces a 26sqm
screen previously purchased from
the Tote some years ago.
The project cost just over £400,000
and was funded by Scottish Racing
with additional help of a £50,000
grant from the Department for
Culture, Media and Sport. In
addition, the screen will be available
for hire for other external events
across the UK.
Scottish Racing Manager Lorna
Ferguson said: “We are delighted
with our new big screen and look
forward to everyone seeing it on the
racecourses. We felt it was time to
purchase a new screen to keep up
with the advancement in technology
and hope it not only enhances
the raceday experience but also
provides opportunities for nonracing events too.”
Screen specification:
• 45sqm screen built in a
transportable trailer.
• 310 degree rotation of screen
• Facilities for a six camera shot
all in HD with an HD 8 channel
sound mixer
• Inline PAL equalization
The grant funding received from
the Department for Culture, Media
and Sport was administered by
the British Horseracing Authority
following the sale of the Tote.
For more information about the Big
Screen and its technology, and to
discuss how the project was put
together as well as details on how
to hire the screen, contact Scottish
Racing Manager Lorna Ferguson
on 07792 865694 or lorna@
scottishracing.co.uk
Spectators at all the Scottish
racecourses will have their view
of the action improved with the
introduction of their new 45 square
metres screen, announced last
month and now in full use at all
fixtures in Scotland.
The screen was produced by British
company Display LED, trailer by
Jans Creacar in Brussels and
control room design and build by
RaceTech. The new screen is set
on bespoke trailer complete with
310 degree rotation capability which
will be transported between the
five racecourses in Scotland with
presence at every Scottish fixture.
Catherine Pullan
April 2015
17
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Sponsorship
The Sponsorship Stakes - 2014 Overview
Below is an overview of race sponsorship activity in 2014, produced by Mary-Ann Sandercock, using data provided
by the RCA, Racing Calendar and the European Breeders Fund.
General = Races that went ahead in 2014
Total races
Total AW races Total Turf Flat races
Total Jumps races
9,357
2,287
3,512
3,558
Total sponsored races Total sponsored AW races Total sponsored Turf Flat races
Total sponsored Jumps races
Total Prize Value of Races Sponsored (not sponsorship contributions):
7,311
2,043
2,585
2,683
78% sponsored
89% sponsored
74% sponsored
75% sponsored
£95,314,360
Sponsorship Sectors
Top 10 Sectors by number of races sponsored
Top 10 Sectors by prize value
SectorTotal races
% of total sponsored
SectorValue
Betting
3,747
51%Betting£42,795,862
Bloodstock
656
9%
Bloodstock
£ 9,593,900
Private/Individual
408
5%
Food/Drink Industry
£ 6,227,276
Food Drink/Industry
322
4%
Finance
£5,312,915
Construction
225
3%
Holdings Company
£ 4,709,625
Finance 211
3%
Private/Individual
£ 3,072,265
Motoring
127
2%
Charity
£ 2,399,814
Tyre Supplies/Services
124
2%
Racing Administration £ 1,908,711
Charity
116
1%
Auctioneers
£ 1,733,607
Insurance
90
1%
Insurance
£ 1,504,250
The European Breeders Fund (EBF) jointly sponsored 319 races (in addition to 295 sole EBF sponsored races);
the joint sponsors have been included in their respective sectors and the EBF jointly sponsored races have also
been included in the Bloodstock sector.
Top 10 Sponsors by number of races sponsored
Sponsor
Races
% 32Red 797
11%
EBF
616
8%
Totepool
442
6%
Ladbrokes
349
5%
Coral 271
4%
Bookmakers.co.uk
245
3%
Betvictor
240
3%
Betfred 228
3%
Betdaq 166
2%
Unibet 157
2%
Top 10 sponsors by prize value
Sponsor
Races Value
Betfred 228
£6,495,655
EBF
616
£6,053,280
32Red 797
£4,929,517
Qipco
12
£4,684,625
Totepool
442
£4,582,915
Ladbrokes
349
£3,362,621
Coral 271
£3,345,818
Investec
24
£3,043,460
Bet365 100
£2,464,703
Betfair
52
£2,450,026
If you have any questions about this report please contact Mary-Ann Sandercock on 07786 925803, or email
[email protected].
April 2015
18
Five Minutes of Fame
Bill Bailey
Racecourse Association
Marketing Executive
On what day of the week were you born and
what was number one in the charts?
What’s the daftest work related question you
have ever been asked?
Saturday
At Cheltenham: Do you think the horses talk to
each other on the way round?
Freedom – WHAM!
Which tune is the most played on your
iTunes?
When you were a child what did you want to
be when you grew up?
Jay-Z – Empire State of Mind
A fighter pilot
Name one thing drives you crazy?
What makes you tick?
Bad drivers
Having a good time with good friends
If you weren’t at work today, what might you
be doing instead?
What’s your guilty pleasure?
Fast food or previously betting on Mikael
D’ttaguenet
Out for a nice lunch, racing, then to the pub with
friends
What is your favourite racing memory?
If you were writing your autobiography the
name of it would be ----------
Kauto Star reclaiming the King George on 2011.
Tears on Boxing Day and not a family row in
sight!
April 2015
You’re entitled to my opinion
19
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BASICS
Education Ltd
REGISTERED CHARITY
No: 276054
EQUESTRIAN MEDICAL OFFICER COURSE
The Equestrian Medical Officer’s Course, formerly run by EventMed Ltd will now be delivered by BASICS
Education Ltd.
The course will retain the same structure, with pre-course on-line study, followed by attendance at a two
day course held in an equestrian environment. The course is designed to develop and enhance the
knowledge and skills necessary to deal with emergencies encountered in the equestrian sports setting and
will be delivered by practiced and experienced Immediate Care Practitioners.
The on-line element comprises 14 individual modules each concentrating on a specific area. Modules
contain on-line lecture presentations, some virtual skill stations, as well as links to a myriad of helpful
additional information. Each module finishes with a brief true/false assessment paper.
The first day of the attendance course is ‘hands on’ practice and practical scenarios, leading to the practical
assessment on day two.
This course will continue to be validated and approved by our academic partners, the Royal College of
Surgeons of Edinburgh.
Next Course is 6th & 7th June 2015
Wrea Green Equitation Centre, Wrea Green, Nr Preston
Course cost: £770.00
Book your place online now at
www.basics.org.uk
PROVIDERS OF PRE-HOSPITAL EMERGENCY CARE AND TRAINING
BASICS Education Ltd, Turret House 2 Turret Lane Ipswich IP4 1DL
Tel: 01473 218407 Fax: 01473 280585 Email: [email protected] Website: www.basics.org.uk
April 2015
20
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Medical
Pre Hospital Trauma
Management Training
Medipro Training is based in Stokesley, North Yorkshire:
•
•
•
•
•
Pre Hospital Trauma Management - 2 days, approved by the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. There are also options to attend this course in Cheltenham, Exeter, Windsor and Aintree. Prices start from £540pp (inc VAT), and full details can be found here. Medipro offer all RMOs a 10% discount for this course. To obtain the discount, RMOs should advise that they act in this capacity when booking.
Major Incident Medical Management & Support (MIMMS) - 2 days, approved by the ALSG. Prices start at £570pp (inc VAT), and full details can be found here.
Dates for this course in 2015 include:
28-29 September 2015
21-22 November 2015
For more information on the range of courses offered by Medipro, please visit their website here.
Badges & PASS 2015
Badge Posters
Missing Badges
8 copies of the large poster and 4 copies of the A4
sized poster for 2015 have been sent to all racecourses.
Extra copies and electronic copies are available on
request.
RCA:
6, 7, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 284, 1049, 1144, 1273, 1282, 1651. 1778, 1970, 2040, 2198
Press: 28, 127, 239, 476, 479, 530
PJA:
17, 100, 101, 106, 189, 190, 207
NTF:
595, 596, 635, 636
Officials: 131, 132
Special: RCA & Press Badge Lists
Copies of the lists of 2015 RCA and Press Badges
holders are available on request.
April 2015
21
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Technical
RCA Technical Group Meeting
The RCA Technical Group met
on Tuesday 31 March 2015. The
racecourses were represented by
Edward Arkell, Seamus Buckley,
Barney Clifford, Anthea Morshead,
and Jimmy Stevenson. George
Noad of the NTF was also in
attendance. Below is a summary of
the discussions:
Measuring of Jump Racecourses:
The Group noted the project plan for
the measuring of Jump Racecourses
project, and discussed the supporting
communications plan. It was agreed
that the implementation timescales
would be confirmed with BHA and the
surveyors.
Risk Assessment Process: The
Group was informed that the RCA
would continue to progress the
project in line with legal advice, and
would provide further information to
racecourses as appropriate.
Continued Professional
Development: The Group discussed
and agreed CPD requirements for
Raceday Clerks of the Course, and
also considered how full time Clerks
of the Course should record and
reflect upon their CPD activities.
The Group also noted the CPD
programme for groundstaff which had
been implemented by the Institute of
Groundsmanship.
Standardised Data Collection:
It was noted that the format for
standardised data collection, to assist
with research as appropriate, was
being progressed. It was agreed that
the format of collection should limit
duplication with other record keeping
required by racecourses.
Medical and Veterinary Information:
The Group noted that the medical
and veterinary information held by the
RCA was out of date, and requested
that a survey be undertaken to gather
updated information.
Channel 4 Winning Line Review:
The Group was informed that the
review of the winning line and its
surroundings was being conducted
in association with Channel 4 and
information would be shared with
racecourses as appropriate.
PJA Safety Officers: It was noted
that, at the request of the PJA, the
RCA and BHA had reviewed the
PJA Safety Officers Job Description
and proposed a small number of
amendments.
National Association of Stable Staff:
George McGrath, Tim Lyle and David
Holland from the National Association
of Stable Staff joined the meeting to
discuss matters of mutual interest
including parade ring safety and
facilities for stable staff.
Caroline Davies / Holly Cook
April 2015
22
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Technical
Racecourse Groundstaff Courses
IOG 2015 Racecourse Groundstaff Courses
The dates and locations for the 2015 Racecourse Groundstaff Courses have now been finalised as follows:
21-22 April Introduction to Racecourse Groundsmanship (Foundation) at Cheltenham Racecourse
8-13 November
Racecourse Groundstaff Turf Management course (Intermediate) at The British Racing School, Newmarket.
For more information on upcoming IOG courses or to reserve a place on any of the above courses please contact
Lisa Gray at the Institute of Groundsmanship, 28 Stratford Office Village, Walker Avenue, Wolverton Mill, Milton
Keynes, MK12 5TW, Tel: 01908 312511.
Weather Report
The February 2015 Water Situation Report (for England and Wales) from the Environment Agency can be
accessed here
April 2015
23
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Technical
Technical
Technical
Achieving exceptional Turf in Autumn with LebanonTurf Fertiliser
As the sun rises a little lower each day and the evenings noticeably draw in
As
the sun
a littlelower
lowernight-time
each day temperatures
and the evenings
noticeably
draw
in that
around
laterises
tea time,
and morning
dews
signal
around
tea time,
night-time
temperatures
and
signal
autumnlate
is truly
here.lower
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all is not
lost to winter
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can still
bringthat
autumn
is truly here.
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to winter
as October
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calendar
month
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month March,
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days and
vigorous
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heat in it’s
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dayslast
and
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sunshine.
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ideal opportunity
to give
turf one
quality
feed of the
sunshine.
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it’s an
ideal
to give turf one
lastand
quality
of the
year, helping
to set the
grass
upopportunity
for a more comfortable
winter
thusfeed
healthier
year,
helping
to
set
the
grass
up
for
a
more
comfortable
winter
and
thus
healthier
spring.
spring.
LebanonTurf ProScape 12-6-24+4% MgO autumn fertiliser is a new autumn/
LebanonTurf
ProScape
12-6-24+4%
MgO autumn
fertiliser
a new
autumn/
winter turf fertiliser
available
from Pitchcare.
Formulated
withisthe
unique
EXPO
winter
turf
fertiliser
available
from
Pitchcare.
Formulated
with
the
unique
EXPO
particle designed to deliver consistent nutrition even when cut in half. This
feed
particle
designed
to deliver
consistent
nutrition
when
cut in half.
This feed
can controlled
release
nitrogen
with the
added even
benefit
of extended
release
can
controlled
release
nitrogen
with theconsistent,
added benefit
of extended
potassium.
The
combination
ensures
controlled
growth release
and plant
potassium.
The
combination
ensures
consistent,
controlled
growth
and
plant
health for up to three months. The added magnesium oxide
health
for up
to three
months.
oxidefor
provides
strength
and
colour. The
Totaladded
up all magnesium
of those benefits
provides
strength
and colour.
Total
up its
all weight
of thoseinbenefits
for
the plant,
then it really
is a bag
worth
gold to any
the
plant,
then
it
really
is
a
bag
worth
its
weight
in
gold
to
any
turf manager.
turf manager.
Until next month, may the weather be kind!
Until
next month,
may staff
the weather
be kind!
some post winter TLC with products such as
Racecourse
grounds
form one
of the many
Everris Sportsmaster Renovator Pro 10-2-4 Fertiliser
branches of horticulture, like all horticulturalists, and
providing a good all-round feed, weed and moss kill.
there close cousins the agriculturalists, they are
source that combines ammonium
rates from 20-40kg per hectare.
As we enter March, we officially leave
Where moss is a particular problem or herbicide use
beholden to the weather. Never is this more apparent than
sulphate with methylene urea in
behind winter and move forward into
is sensitive, then Maxwell
Food BioniK
3-3-25
during
spring.2015
Something
which is even
more for
evident
a single, Turf
homogeneous
particle.
If looking
a balanced granular
spring;the
hopefully
will provide
+3MgO
organic-mineral
compound NPK
inan
recent
years when
theofonset
of good consistent
growing range is
The
result is an extremely
feed the Lebanon
alwaysis a specialist
appropriate
balance
sunlight,
effective
and controlled
nitrogen
biggerthat contains
moisture and
warmer
temperatures
fertiliser
composting
bacteria
to break
conditions
seems
to vary
considerably. a smart choice, with slightly
source that
produces
consistent,
giving groundsmen everywhere a
bags than most (22.7kg) down
and lowmoss and organic
matter into nutrient whilst
dark green colour without
helping hand into the new growing
application rates combined 20feeding
turf
for
up
to
3
months.
excessive growth.
30g/m2. The ProScape range is
season.
Using meteorological data can help a designed
grounds-person
for a range of turf areas.
range predominantly
consists of
•
Expo® is Lebanon’s patented,
the grass
plant begins
to wake
toAsmake
informed
decisions
for their The
surfaces,
somehomogenous
granules
which
employ
single-particle, extended release
up
fully
from
the
rigours
of
winters
thing which can be supplemented by using their own soil
potassium sulphate technology.
cold weather and low light levels,
a range of technologies to maximise
thermometers to monitor local conditions.
the control of the nutrient release,
then its requirement for nitrogen will
such as;
increase. If not yet completed now
is the time to seriously consider a
40 is a high activity
programme
for the
Infertiliser
agronomic
terms we
are season.
approaching• theMeth-Ex®
point where
A programme which is formulated in
methylene urea nitrogen source
granular applications are going to become effective but
conjunction with a broad spectrum soil
that provides extended turf
the
use ofanalysis,
liquids such
and bio-stimulants
stressed
feeding
without the need for
nutrient
as that offered to see any
swards
through
the last
of portfolio,
the cold are an effective
option,
within the
Pitchcare
PWS
coatings.
Microbial release allows
Meth-Ex®
40 to release nitrogen
enable
informed
decisions
to be
itswill
surely
best
to keep
the plant
healthy so you
are then
taken.
when
the
turf
best placed to play catch up once things kick in properly, needs it the most.
The result is a quick colour
the
same can
for anyone
planning onresponse
reseeding.
with no surge growth
Fertilisers
canbe
besaid
applied
as granular
Now
is also
a soluble
good time
tooffering
give the
lawns
and a consistent
and reliable
or liquids,
with
feeds
a ornamental
long-term feeding schedule.
good cost effective choice. Headlands
Xtend 46-0-0 gives up to three months
slow release nitrogen with application
•
MESA®, a unique nitrogen
March 2015
April 2015
Expo® granular is designed to
deliver potassium to the turf in
a reliable and predictable rate
over a longer period of time,
well beyond that of the standard
potassium sulphate found in most
fertilisers. Additionally, Expo®
granular also delivers controlled
release nitrogen.
By utilising these technologies the
Lebanon range is able to consistently
provide turf nutrition for between
10-12 weeks resulting in less overall
applications throughout the season
and improved turf quality.
W: www.pitchcare.com
01902
440250
W: www.pitchcare.comE:E:[email protected]
[email protected] T:T:
01902
440250
W: www.pitchcare.com E: [email protected]
T: 01902 440250 back to menu |
23
Pitchcare.com,Allscott
Allscott Park,
Park,
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Pitchcare.com,
Allscott, Telford,
Telford,TF6
TF65DY
5DY
24 Allscott,
Pitchcare.com, Allscott Park, Allscott, Telford, TF6 5DY
Technical
You are cordially invited to attend a Pitchcare
Tractor mounted rotary / roller
mower trials and demo day
at Uttoxeter Racecourse on Friday 24th April 2015
Several of our industry leading manufacturers;
●
●
●
●
The Grass Group
McConnel
Major Equipment
Spearhead Machinery
● Trimax Mowing Systems Ltd
● Votex
● Wessex International
9.30-10.00 hrs
Arrival with coffee and tea
10.00-13.00 hrs
Morning demonstrations
13.00-13.30 hrs
Refreshments
will be demonstrating a range of their Mowers
at Uttoxeter Racecourse.
13.30-14.00 hrs
Feedback / question time
Venue address:
Confirm your attendance:
Please can you confirm your attendance by replying on the
following link: [email protected]
So we have a clear number of how many will be attending on the day.
April 2015
Programme:
25
Uttoxeter Racecourse
Wood Lane,
Uttoxeter
Staffordshire
ST14 8BD
T: 01889 562561
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Diary Dates
Tuesday14 April
Racecourse Medical Conference - Wolverhampton
Thursday23 April
REL Board
Wednesday29 April
RaceTech Board
Tuesday26 May
RCA Board & AGM
Contributors' Contact List
Bowler, Grace
0207 125 0038
[email protected]
Britten, Libby
0207 152 0192
[email protected]
Brudenell, Sophia 01242 537 683
[email protected]
Cook, Holly
01344 873536
[email protected]
Davies, Caroline
01344 873536
[email protected]
Derham, Amy
0207 152 0132
[email protected]
Mounsey, Robin
0207 152 0048
[email protected]
Pullan, Catherine
0208 947 3333
[email protected]
Rowley, Grant
07884 655990 [email protected]
Sandercock, Mary-Ann
07786 925 803
[email protected]
Smyth, Tessa
0207 152 0163
[email protected]
Swain, Paul
01344 873536
[email protected]
Walker, Carol
01344 873536
[email protected]
UPDATE is also available
on our website:
www.britishracecourses.org
EDITOR: Carol Walker
The Racecourse Association Ltd
April 2015
26
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