Grassroots – ��Ǵ��

Racing Together Community Week set for 18-24th May

James Giblett — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 12:27:53 +0000

Image: Newbury Racecourse Clerk of the Course, George Hill

ISSUED ON BEHALF OF RACING TOGETHER

Racing Together Community Week, British racing’s national week of employee volunteering, will take place from 18–24 May 2026, bringing together organisations from across the sport to support communities nationwide.

Last year saw a record 90+ racing organisations, including racecourses, trainers, owners and staff, take part in the initiative, delivering a wide range of volunteering activities that made a positive impact in local communities.

Now in its seventh year, Racing Together Community Week has more than doubled participation since 2020. The initiative celebrates the collective efforts of the British racing industry to support local causes through activities including school outreach programmes, charity partnerships, community clean-ups, food bank support and wellbeing sessions.

Watch the 2025 highlights video here:��

New optional theme to inspire participation

New for 2026 is an optional theme designed to inspire new volunteering ideas and align activity across the sport.

Racing Together is encouraging organisations to support work addressing loneliness in local communities. The charity is currently delivering a BHA pilot programme, funded by the Racing Foundation, at six racecourses exploring how racing can help tackle loneliness in the areas surrounding racecourses.

This work forms part of the sport’s social impact strategy, find out more��.��Those interested in aligning their activity with this theme are encouraged to contact Racing Together to discuss ideas:��lucy@racingtogether.co.uk

Industry backing for Community Week

The development of Community Week was a key discussion point at the recent��Racing Together Industry Day at Lingfield Park, where more than 100 industry professionals endorsed the value and impact of the initiative.

Workshop discussions focused on:

Reducing barriers to participation
Improving impact measurement
Expanding communications reach

Celebrating racing’s year-round community impact

Following the launch of British racing’s social impact strategy, Community Week will also be used to highlight the��year-round social impact work��taking place across British racing, alongside the volunteering delivered during the week itself.

Organisations are encouraged to showcase initiatives that align with the sport’s Social Impact Strategy, particularly across the following themes:

The Power of Opportunity��– enhancing opportunities for young people to be part of horseracing
The Power of the Racehorse��– harnessing the racehorse’s role in helping young people fulfil their potential
The Power of Racing��– bringing people together to improve individual and community wellbeing
The Power of Community��– ensuring racing is a positive asset to local communities

Racing organisations are encouraged to highlight their work through websites, email communications and social media, as well as engaging local MPs and media.

Several racecourses will also support the initiative by naming races during the week and using racedays between 18–24 May to raise awareness of the sport’s community impact.

Industry pride in volunteering

John Blake, CEO of Racing Together, said:

“Racing Together Community Week has become a perfect example of the phrase ‘greater than the sum of its parts’. Participation has grown year-on-year, creating opportunities for teams and individuals across the sport to use their skills to support local communities and develop creative projects.

“The willingness shown by volunteers reflects the genuine pride people in racing take in making a difference beyond the sport itself. We are always delighted to see long-lasting charity partnerships and community initiatives that begin during Community Week.”

Organisations interested in taking part can��or contact the Racing Together team directly.

Notes to editors:

1. For more information contact Lucy Gurney on��lucy@racingtogether.co.uk��or 07387 260980.

2.��Racing Together represents British racing’s community engagement activity and is an open partnership of charities and organisations working across the sport to benefit others. The initiative is led by the education charity Racing to School and guided by an industry subcommittee.

Racing Together’s vision is for British racing to be recognised as a ‘force for good’ in the communities where the sport operates. It supports this ambition by providing practical resources and guidance, encouraging collaboration and innovation, and delivering nationwide initiatives that showcase the sport’s positive impact.

Key programmes include Racing Together Community Week and Racing Together Industry Day, alongside the ongoing promotion and sharing of best practice in community engagement across British racing.

Racing Together is grateful to the Horserace Betting Levy Board for its annual funding support.

For more information visit��

Rider Development Pathway introduced to enhance quality of coaching and support career progression of riders within British racing

Robin Mounsey — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 09:30:17 +0000

The Horseracing Industry People Board (HIPB), British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and British Racing School (BRS) have today announced the launch of British racing’s first “Rider Development Pathway”.

The Rider Development Pathway (RDP) connects a series of initiatives designed to support riders at all levels within British horse racing, from young people starting out their rider journey in pony racing, to those working in yards and others hoping to take out their jockey’s license.��Its aims are to raise the standard of riding across the sport, with a significant focus on enhancing the quality of coaching and supporting the career progression of riders into the horseracing workforce, as well as creating a world class talent development pathway.

It brings together training, coaching and career support into one joined-up system, so riders develop the right skills at the right time, safely and consistently, with clear routes to progress.

Supported by industry stakeholders, the RDP brings together all the existing funding streams for rider and jockey development from the BHA, including ongoing investment from the HBLB and Racing Foundation. Its aims are to raise the skillset of riders across the sport, thereby improving the training of racehorses and ultimately helping to enhance British racing’s reputation and standing.

Following a competitive tender process run by the HIPB and BHA, we are pleased to announce that the British Racing School (BRS) has been awarded the contract for the delivery of the Rider Development Pathway.

Kicking off in early 2026, the Rider Development Pathway will initially focus on the delivery of rider coaching in yards, led by former Classic-winning jockey George Baker as Head of Coaching, whose team will work closely with racehorse trainers to identify staff within their teams to be coached against the industry Rider Competency Matrix.

The Rider Competency Matrix, which has also been developed by the HIPB and including consultation with skilled riders, former jockeys and employers, provides a framework which sets out the skills a rider should be able to show at each level of their career, from entry to advanced levels. This clearly demonstrates the skill progression riders would look to develop on their journey through the sport, and ensures consistent understanding for employers of skill requirements across all riding roles.

The Rider Development Pathway will also offer regional coaching workshops to maximise the accessibility of coaching to staff across the country and seek to develop coaching capability, qualifications and accreditation within training yards.

The Pathway will also extend to include coaching within pony racing, a key entry point for the sport, and will continue to encompass the Jockey Coaching Programme which currently supports 133 conditional and apprentice jockeys and has been run by the British Racing School since 2014.

The Horseracing Industry People Board was established as part of British horseracing’s ongoing Industry Strategy led by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and was established to oversee a more coordinated and long-term approach to our people – one that will help future-proof British racing by ensuring the industry is an attractive, fulfilling, safe and enjoyable place to work.

Former jockey Tom Scudamore, member of the Horseracing Industry People Board said:

“Having come through the system myself, I know how important clear guidance, consistent coaching and the right support are to a rider’s career. The Rider Development Pathway brings everything together into one clear, nationally recognised programme – improving the quality and consistency of coaching, supporting rider well-being and performance, and giving people at every stage a clearer route to progress and build a long-term career in the sport.

“By aligning investment and development across racing, it will grow our talent pool, give employers greater confidence in the skills of their riders, and strengthen British racing’s reputation for professionalism, welfare and opportunity.”

Dr Eleanor Boden, Education, Development, and Careers Programme Lead for the Horseracing Industry People Board, said:

“The Rider Development Pathway is a hugely important project which will help to enhance the quality of rider coaching across the industry and support the career progression of riders within the horseracing workforce.

“From coaching in yards to regional rider clinics and the embedding coaching capabilities across the sport, we are looking forward to working in partnership with the British Racing School and the wider industry to deliver this vital initiative.”

The is recognised as one of the world’s leading providers of rider training and supports hundreds of young people into the sport each year through its Foundation Course, in addition to having run the Jockey Coaching Programme since 2014. It is also a highly sought after training centre for international racing nations such as Qatar, Turkey and Bahrain who each year send riders to be coached at the school.

Andrew Braithwaite, Chief Executive of the British Racing School said:

“We are delighted to have been entrusted with the delivery of the Rider Development Pathway. This is an exciting opportunity to build on our long-standing commitment to developing riders and to ensure the sport continues to support the talented riders it needs to thrive.

“Our aim is to enhance the quality, consistency, and accessibility of coaching provision across British horseracing through our highly skilled and credible rider coaches and provide targeted support services and career progression for riders – be that at entry level for young people engaged in pony racing, individuals already working in yards or apprentice and conditional jockeys starting out.”

Rob Sage, Head of Operations for the National Trainers Federation (NTF), said:

“The Rider Development Pathway is an important initiative offering trainers access to high quality coaching, delivered in their own yard, which is both accessible to their staff and convenient for a high-pressure working environment.

“It is also a crucial first step to ensuring that, as an industry, we are producing the number and quality of riders required for trainers businesses, and the sport as a whole, to thrive.”

Trainer James Owen said:

“The Rider Development Pathway is a really important step for the sport and having Rider Coaches come into the workplace and support staff will be really valuable, as will the work to help develop coaches in yards as well. We all know that better riders lead to better horses so anything that helps support this has got to be a positive.”

Following industry discussion it was agreed that the introduction of a career development pathway should focus first on riders, but in time should be extended to cover other segments of the racing industry workforce. Work is underway on these further pathways.

Ends.

��Ǵ��:

British Racing School: Naomi Lawson, Director of Engagement
naomi.lawson@brs.org.uk / 07475 152406

British Horseracing Authority (BHA) on behalf of the Horseracing Industry People Board: Robin Mounsey, Head of Communications
rmounsey@britishhorseracing.com / 07584 171551

Notes to editors:

1. About the Horseracing Industry People Board

The Horseracing Industry People Board consists of individuals who provide a strong balance of knowledge, experience from within and beyond the racing industry.

Chaired by Julia Tyson, members bring deep understanding and expertise in key areas like human resources, diversity and inclusion, education and employment and strategic leadership.

In February 2025, the People Board��published��its��three-year workforce strategy, which sets out an industry-wide plan bringing together new and existing projects in key areas such as recruitment, training and development, employment practices, inclusion and wellbeing.

Our People, Racing’s Future��is a coordinated plan to help British racing and breeding attract and retain a highly skilled and well supported workforce.

The workforce strategy forms a key part of the wider��Industry Strategy work��being led by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and will be underpinned and informed by extensive stakeholder input, engagement and expertise.

2. About the :

The British Racing School is a world class centre of excellence in the horse racing industry. Its Royal Patron is Her Majesty The Queen. Over the past four decades it has trained thousands of people from across society and equipped them with the skills to excel in Britain’s second biggest spectator sport, horse racing.

As a charity, The British Racing School improves social mobility for young people aged 8-24, by using their interest in horses to unlock education, training and employment opportunities which may otherwise have felt inaccessible to them. It creates pathways for over 500 young people every year to participate in the sport of British horseracing through over 25 specialist racing courses. Its flagship programme is the Foundation Course, a Level 2 Apprenticeship for 16-24 year olds which prepares young people for jobs as stable staff, riding and looking after the sport’s racehorses. To date, some 4,000 young people have successfully completed the course and gone onto to work in the industry.

The British Racing School is also home to the Newmarket Pony Academy, a community project which uses horses and ponies to positively affect mental health and well-being of children aged 8-14 in Newmarket and its neighbouring communities. It is also the base for the Riding A Dream Academy which works to increase diversity and inclusion in the sport through tailored courses for young people from diverse ethnic communities and disadvantaged backgrounds aged 14-16.

(Registered Charity No. 1161555).

@BRSNewmarket

Finalists announced for 2026 Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards, sponsored by Godolphin

James Giblett — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 09:58:52 +0000

The finalists have been revealed today for the 2026 Thoroughbred Industry Employees Awards,��sponsored by Godolphin.

Following two highly competitive rounds of judging, the 18 finalists from across British racing and breeding will head to Ascot Racecourse for the illustrious ceremony, hosted by ITV Racing’s Ed Chamberlin.

With £128,500 in prize money to be won across six categories, the awards celebrate the hard work, passion and dedication of the outstanding individuals who make a positive difference to the lives of our horses, people and local communities.

The final round of judging will take place at Ascot on 23 February, before the winners in each category and the overall Employee of the Year are announced at the evening ceremony.

All nominees who reached the 10-person��but did not progress to the final three will��receive a £250 prize in recognition of their achievement and contribution.

Brant Dunshea, acting Chief Executive of the BHA, said:

“My congratulations to this year’s finalists, who are truly worthy of this accolade.��The 2026 ceremony promises to be another memorable occasion as we celebrate the very best of British racing and breeding.

“Everyone who was nominated, made the shortlists or got through to the final 18 should be immensely proud. You are all fitting representatives of the many individuals, yards, studs and communities across the country who make our wonderful industry the success it is.

“A huge thank you to our sponsors Godolphin, our award partners at the Racing Post, Racing TV and Ascot Racecourse, and of course to our esteemed judging panel – who no doubt have the toughest job.”

Hugh Anderson, Managing Director at Godolphin (UK and Dubai), said:

“Many congratulations to the 18 finalists for this year’s Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards, all of whom should be very proud of making it this far.

“I would also like to congratulate everyone who was nominated and to thank those who took the time to nominate their employees, colleagues and friends.

“Godolphin is incredibly proud to support these awards which celebrate the backbone of our industry – its people – and without whom our great sport simply could not function.

“I look forward to celebrating these outstanding people at Ascot in a few weeks’ time.”

The finalists for each category are:

Newcomer Award
Emma Skerritt – Richenda Ford
Freddie Wilks – Charlie Johnston
Poppy Hatton – Folland-Bowen Bloodstock

Leadership Award
Carrie Sanderson – Karl Burke
Claire Freeman – Dan Skelton
Louisa Allen – Jim Boyle

Rider / Racing Groom Award
Ellie Jefferson – Christian Williams
Kieran Kourdache – Karl Burke
Michelle Kramer – Paul Nicholls

Stud Award
Dayna Walsh – Tweenhills
James Goddard – Chasemore Farm
Oleh Ihnatenko – Whitsbury Manor Stud

Dedication Award
Christopher Pattenden – Diana Grissell
Derek Snaith – Charlie Fellowes
Helen Halliwell – James Fanshawe

Community Award
Anna Collins – Chester Racecourse
Geraldine Jones – Godolphin
Hayley Clements – Micky Hammond

More information on the 2026 Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards sponsored by Godolphin can be found��.

Shortlists revealed for 2026 Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards, sponsored by Godolphin

James Giblett — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 09:59:30 +0000

The shortlists have been announced today for the 2026��Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards,��sponsored by Godolphin.

Following an extensive and highly competitive round of judging, the expert has agreed a shortlist of 10 in each of the six award categories.

The 60 individuals from across British racing and breeding now enter the second stage of judging, where they will be vying for a place in the final at Ascot Racecourse on 23 February 2026.

Hosted by ITV Racing’s Ed Chamberlin, the 2026 ceremony will see a new cohort of award winners and the crowning of the Employee of the Year, with all finalists securing a share of the £128,500 prize money provided by Godolphin.

All shortlisted nominees who do not make the final three will still benefit from a £250 prize, which recognises their significant achievement in reaching this stage of the judging process.

Brant Dunshea, acting Chief Executive of the BHA, said:

“Congratulations to everyone who has been shortlisted for an award. This is a very impressive accomplishment, particularly given the high standard of competition again this year, and you should be immensely proud.

“The judges had a tough job in whittling down more than 160 nominations to a shortlist of just 60, and I hope that everyone who was nominated for an award will feel pleased that your hard work has been recognised by the people around you.

“My sincere thanks to our judging panel, to our generous and longstanding sponsors Godolphin, and our partners at the Racing Post, Racing TV and Ascot Racecourse.

“We are also grateful to everyone who helped support the nominations period. These are the industry’s awards and it’s wonderful to see racing and breeding embrace their significance and the importance to the people they exist to honour.”

Chair of the judging panel, Nick Luck, said:

“As judges we always have our work cut out with the quality of nominations and the wide-ranging skills, experience and contribution of our nominees. This year has been no exception, with a typically competitive process that’s given us some seriously difficult decisions to make.

“But we feel that the shortlist represents a wonderful array of talent from across Britain and some exceptionally dedicated and committed people who make a positive difference to racing, breeding and our local communities. Round two certainly won’t be any easier!”

The shortlisted nominees for each category are:

Newcomer Award

Carly Rumsey – Jeremy Scott
Emily Lucas – James Moffatt
Emma Skerritt – Richenda Ford
Faye Levick – Jedd O’Keeffe
Freddie Wilks – Charlie Johnston
Lizzy Skidmore – Nick Gifford
Macey Ford – Jim Boyle
Poppy Hatton – Folland-Bowen Bloodstock
Sienna Anderson – Charlie Fellowes
Verity Haigh – Jo Foster

Leadership Award

Aideen Marshall – Kevin Philippart De Foy
Annelie Hollstenius – Stuart Williams
Carrie Sanderson – Karl Burke
Claire Freeman – Dan Skelton
Jaimie Duff – Lucinda Russell
Jennifer Burns – Jim Goldie
Louisa Allen – Jim Boyle
Michael Mavin – Tim Easterby
Ryan King – James Owen
Sarah Peacock – Hugo Palmer

Rider / Racing Groom Award

Bekah Duffy – Susan Corbett
Danielle Mooney – Karl Burke
Ellie Jefferson – Christian Williams
Erin Shannon – Roger Varian
Evie Gleason – Marcus Tregoning
Jessica Jubb – Nick Alexander
Kerry Bennett – Roger Varian
Kieran Kourdache – Karl Burke
Michelle Kramer – Paul Nicholls
Tom Busfield – Jedd O’Keeffe

Stud Award

Dayna Walsh – Tweenhills
Farhat Iqbal – Stetchworth and Middle Park Studs
Graham Rylance – Charlock Stud
Hannelore Gossage – Park Wood Stud
Isabel Byford – Shadwell Estate
James Goddard – Chasemore Farm
Laura Wright – Hazelwood Bloodstock
Oleh Ihnatenko – Whitsbury Manor Stud
Scott Marshall – Tweenhills
Zoe Andrews – Elms Bloodstock

Dedication Award

Christopher Pattenden – Diana Grissell
Derek Snaith – Charlie Fellowes
Emma Batten – Charlie Longsdon
Dean Angell – Amanda Perrett
Gemma Edwards – David Pipe
Helen Halliwell – James Fanshawe
Kate Ford – Goldford Stud
Kenny Williams – Michael Dods
Robert Storton – Jack Channon
Tina Jacobs – William Haggas

Community Award

Anna Collins – Chester Racecourse
Bobby Beevers – Autism in Racing
Geraldine Jones – Godolphin
Hayley Clements – Micky Hammond
Karen Davies – Racing Welfare
Liz Prowting – Thoroughbred aftercare
Louise Robson – Thoroughbred Dressage
Lucy Gurney – Women in Racing
Simon Bailey – Sports Chaplaincy UK
Susan Corbett – Charity work and mentoring

MPs welcome British racing’s award winners to Westminster

James Giblett — Sun, 26 Oct 2025 08:30:59 +0000

Winners of the 2025 Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards sponsored by Godolphin visited the Houses of Parliament earlier this week to celebrate their achievements and emphasise to politicians the significance of the British racing and breeding industry.

Award winners Tyla Macfarlane (Andrew Balding), Ivo Thomas (Tweenhills), Kelly Stevens (Littleton Stud) and Sally Lyons (Horse Welfare Board) joined representatives from Godolphin and the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) at the Palace of Westminster.

Wendy Lyons, Sally Lyons (Community Award winner) and Grahame Morris MP.

Organised in conjunction with the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Racing and Bloodstock, the visit included a guided tour of the historic parliamentary estate and a glimpse behind the scenes of the world-famous House of Commons chamber.

Following the tour, the group had the opportunity to meet parliamentarians from the House of Commons and House of Lords to discuss their roles and responsibilities with some of the country’s most influential decision-makers.

With MPs and Peers in attendance from across the political spectrum – including Nick Timothy MP, Kit Malthouse MP, Lee Dillon MP, Grahame Morris MP and Lord Risby – the award winners were able to showcase the role the industry plays in supporting jobs and livelihoods across the country.

BHA Director of Communications and Corporate Affairs Greg Swift said:

“The British racing and breeding industry is a national success story, supporting jobs throughout the country and driving economic investment within local communities.

“The visit to Parliament was a valuable opportunity for MPs and Peers to hear directly from those working at the heart of our sport about their passion for racing, our horses and our people. We are very grateful to the politicians for their time and support.

“It is��vital that policymakers understand about how critical our yards, studs, businesses and organisations are to the economic, social and cultural success of our country – and our award winners are the perfect spokespeople to help convey this message.”

Diana Cooper (Godolphin) and Nick Timothy MP.

Commenting on the visit, Godolphin’s Diana Cooper, said:

“We are delighted that four of this year’s winners were able to represent the British racing and breeding industry in Westminster and speak so��eloquently to parliamentarians about the care we all have for the wellbeing of our horses, people and local communities.

“Godolphin is very proud to sponsor the Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards and having this opportunity to highlight the importance with which we respect this cohort to their MPs and Peers helps make the awards relevant all year long, not only the one wonderful evening in February. Thank you to our partners the BHA.”

Nominations for the 2026 sponsored by Godolphin close on Tuesday 4 November 2025.

With £128,500 in prize money to be won across six categories, the awards are an opportunity to recognise, reward and celebrate the hard work and dedication of people working in the thoroughbred racing and breeding industry.

The awards are open to anyone working in the racing yard and breeding operations in England, Scotland, and Wales, as well as those going above and beyond to support their local communities.

Nominations can be made by employers, colleagues or friends at:��

Powering positive change: British horseracing’s social impact strategy

James Giblett — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 16:22:08 +0000

Horseracing is embedded in communities across the country and the sport’s new ��sets out an industry-wide approach to enhancing our positive impact on people and society.

Launched yesterday at the Racing Foundation conference, the ��outlines how the industry can work together in an even more coordinated way, building on the valuable activity currently taking place and enhancing racing’s reputation and relevance.

The development of the strategy has been funded and supported by the Racing Foundation, Godolphin and the Racing Post and shaped by existing knowledge and expertise from individuals, charities and community groups operating across the sport.

It forms part of the British racing’s wider approach to ensuring responsible care for our people, communities and environment – part of the ongoing industry strategy work that has also seen the publication of the sport’s environmental strategy��in recent weeks.

The social impact strategy has been designed around four main areas where racing already has strong foundations and can have the greatest impact on individuals and communities:

Power of opportunity – making it easier for young people to benefit from being part of our industry. We need to make sure we are relevant to young people, that we engage them at an early age and support their development of skills, confidence and employability – or simply help them enjoy the sport as fans
Power of the racehorse��– evidence shows the positive impact our horses can have on people, and through the provision of equine assisted services we are harnessing the power the Thoroughbred can have beyond their career on the racecourse
Power of racing – our sport has a lot to offer to society and we want to take a more proactive approach to measuring our impact, so that we can demonstrate the importance of our work and tell a more compelling story about the positive value we deliver
Power of community��– we are part of our local communities and have a strong history of supporting them, whether that’s through fundraising and volunteering or other established programmes of activity. Enhancing this work and ensuring that racing remains a community asset is crucial to our sport’s reputation and long-term success.

Within these areas the sport has identified three immediate priorities to drive focus through to 2028:

Establishing a young people pathway for British racing – so that we are following a clear, consistent and industry-agreed approach to supporting young people as they engage with the sport
Building our impact story – quantifying the positive difference we make so that we can better understand and showcase the true value of British racing to society
Engage and empower our stakeholders and partners – clearly defining the role that individuals, organisations and community groups can play in achieving our goals – and empowering stakeholders within and beyond racing to drive this work forward.

Tom Baker, Head of Social Impact at the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), said:

“British racing is an industry that is committed to having a positive impact and there is already a significant amount of vital work taking place across the country that is making a real difference in our communities.

“This includes giving more young people the opportunity to engage with our sport and horses, fundraising and volunteering for vital causes, and recognising the valuable role retired thoroughbreds play in supporting physical and mental wellbeing.

“The strategy builds on these strong foundations to help ensure we can have an even greater impact, through increased collaboration, forging even stronger partnerships and by improving our understanding of where we can make the biggest difference.

“My thanks to everyone who has been involved in shaping this work, and in particular the Racing Foundation, Godolphin and the Racing Post for their support.

“There’s a clear recognition across British racing about the role our sport, people and horses can play in powering positive change, and I look forward to working with colleagues as we continue to make meaningful progress.”

British horseracing’s social impact strategy can be viewed .

Nominations open for the 2026 Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards, sponsored by Godolphin

Jemima Perham — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 08:59:15 +0000

Nominations are open until Tuesday 4 November 2025
£128,500 in prize money to be won across six categories
Ascot Racecourse to host prestigious ceremony in February 2026

Nominations open today for the 2026 Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards (TIEA), sponsored by Godolphin.

With £128,500 in prize money to be won across six categories, the shine a spotlight on the skill, dedication and passion of the people at the heart of British racing and breeding.

Organised by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and supported by the Racing Post and Racing TV, the awards are an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the exceptional individuals working in our training yards, studs and the wider industry.

Last year, Simone Meloni secured the Rider / Racing Groom award before being crowned overall ��–��winning £30,000 for himself and colleagues at Nicky Henderson’s Seven Barrows.

The prestigious TIEA ceremony returns to Ascot Racecourse on 23 February 2026, where 18 finalists will go through the final round of judging before the winners are revealed at the star-studded evening celebrations.

Ascot was represented in last year’s awards by��Corporate Social Responsibility Manager, Jacqui Greet – a finalist in the Community category for her��outstanding work through Ascot Racecourse Supports, the racecourse’s community and charity programme.

Nominations for the Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards are open until 5pm on Tuesday 4 November 2025.

The awards are open to anyone working in the racing and breeding industry in England, Scotland, and Wales. Nominations can be made by employers, colleagues or friends at:��

All nominations will be reviewed by an expert judging , chaired by award-winning broadcaster Nick Luck, with a shortlist of ten per category moving forward for a second round of judging. From there, 18 finalists across six categories will advance to the final judging stage and the evening ceremony, at which the winners will be announced.

BHA Acting Chief Executive, Brant Dunshea, said:

“The Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards are the ultimate celebration of our people – rewarding the extraordinary skill and��dedication that exists throughout British racing and breeding.

“Having worked in yards myself I know how important it is to recognise the individuals at the heart of our sport, providing expert care for our horses and looking after our people.

“Thanks to the generous sponsorship of Godolphin, winners and finalists not only receive the plaudits of their friends and peers, but secure significant cash prizes for themselves and their yard, stud or charity of choice.

“We’re also delighted this year that Ascot Racecourse will be joining the Racing Post and Racing TV as a formal awards partner – further cementing the close ties between Ascot and the TIEA and ensuring everyone has an evening to savour at the ceremony itself.

“If you know someone who deserves to be recognised for their contribution to our industry, please do nominate them today.”

Hugh Anderson, Managing Director of Godolphin (UK and Dubai), said:

“For over 20 years now, Godolphin has been very proud to support the Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards.

“These awards rightly recognise the outstanding people who form the backbone of our industry, working to the highest standard in racing yards, on stud farms and across all areas of breeding and racing and the communities that surround us.

“I encourage everyone, whether employer, colleague or friend, to nominate now.”

Felicity Barnard, Chief Executive at Ascot Racecourse, said:

“We are thrilled to be hosting the Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards again in 2026. It is always such a special evening and a brilliant way of celebrating all those people that work so hard across the sport night and day.

“We look forward to working with the team at the BHA in the build up to ensure that the judging day and evening celebrations are extra special for all those involved and can’t wait to welcome everybody to Ascot on 23��February next year.”

Notes to editors:

Anyone can nominate a friend, colleague or employee for an award at
More information on the 2026 Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards sponsored by Godolphin can be found in the .
The 2026 judging panel can be viewed

Petition to #AxeTheRacingTax launched as Government tax raid threatens future of British Horseracing

James Giblett — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 17:00:52 +0000

2,752 jobs at risk following proposed tax hikes, according to NEW independent research
Proposed tax changes by the Government could see industry suffer at least £330 million revenue loss in first five years – risking the future of this historic sport
Ahead of ‘Glorious Goodwood’ starting tomorrow, the British Horseracing Authority is calling for the public to back British racing and sign the #AxeTheRacingTax��, to save Britain’s most cherished sporting and cultural institution

New research published today reveals the destructive impact the Treasury’s proposed tax rises on horserace betting could have on the sport – predicting a catastrophic��£330 million revenue hit��to the industry in the first five years, and��2,752 jobs at risk��in the first year alone.

In a wake-up call for Government, the latest research commissioned by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) reveals an even more devastating economic outlook than initial reports suggested, particularly for racing towns across Britain.

Yorkshire alone, home to nine racecourses including Doncaster and York, is predicted to suffer a��£37 million economic hit��in the first five years,��with 342 jobs immediately at risk��in the first year – from trainers and stable staff to local pub owners and hospitality workers.

It is in response to the gravest risk faced by horseracing in generations that the BHA has today launched its #AxeTheRacingTax campaign.

In a strident call to arms, the campaign urges the sport and the public to come together to back British racing and stop the Government’s devastating tax hike by signing the #AxeTheRacingTax .

British horseracing contributes £4.1 billion to the economy annually and is a cherished part of British culture, with over 5 million people going to the races every year. But a new proposal from the Government could send Britain’s second-best attended spectator sport into irreversible decline.

The Government is proposing to tax betting on horseracing at the same rate as online casinos – rising from 15% to 21% – although the rate could be higher depending on the Treasury’s decision. The BHA is warning that a tax rise of 21% could cost the industry £66 million a year and put 2,752 people at risk of losing their jobs in the first year. Thousands more could follow.

Brant Dunshea, CEO at the BHA, stated:

“This latest tax bombshell from the Government, if followed through, poses one of the gravest risks to horseracing the sport has ever seen.

“The horseracing industry is already in a precarious financial position, and the latest research provides a much more catastrophic forecast than we first thought. We’re talking thousands of jobs at risk across the supply chain, severely impacted towns and communities, and the irreversible decline of the country’s second most popular sport.

“Together as an entire industry, we’re asking the British public for support in calling on the Government to rethink this policy and stop undermining a much-loved part of British heritage and culture. It’s time to axe the racing tax and back British horseracing.”

David Menuisier, Racehorse Trainer at Coombelands Racing Stables, West Sussex, said:

“This move from the Government would put thousands of trainers, owners, jockeys and stable staff at risk. Racing is much more than just a sport in this country.

“It brings fun and excitement to millions and is a major local employer, particularly here in West Sussex as we prepare for another fantastic year at Goodwood.

“The Government needs to acknowledge the unique and significant social and economic contributions the horseracing industry makes to the country and stop risking the ecosystem that keeps this sport alive.”

Sarah Guest, Yard Manager for John O’Shea Racing, Gloucestershire and 2023 at the Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards sponsored by Godolphin, said:

“A tax rise on betting is only going to stifle the sport. I love what I do, but if the industry starts shrinking, it will be stable staff like me who will feel it first. It’s a genuine worry, and the Government needs to understand this is going to have significant impact on everyone working in racing – not just the betting companies.”

To help stop the racing tax and back British horseracing, the BHA is urging supporters to sign the #AxeTheRacingTax��.

Notes to editors:

For media enquiries, please contact BHA@teneo.com.

For more information, visit the #AxeTheRacingTax��and sign the campaign petition��. The HM Treasury’s consultation on the Tax Treatment on Remote Gambling is also available to view��.

About the Economic Modelling Research

The independent research was conducted by Development Economics in July 2025. The economic effects on reduced levels of horseracing activity and attendances were modelled using data from national and regional economic impact assessments for the horseracing industry, alongside datasets from the Office of National Statistics and input-output coefficients sourced from national and regional input-output models.

Total job loss figures represent the total number of workers affected (i.e., on a headcount basis).

People Board secures funding for 2025 programme of activity

James Giblett — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 08:57:59 +0000

Racing Foundation and HBLB combined grant of over £759,000
Funding to support new initiatives and ensure continuity for existing programmes
New Programme Director��Jon Pett��appointed to oversee strategy implementation
Investment in new roles to coordinate activity and project delivery

The Horseracing Industry People Board (HIPB) has secured funding from the Racing Foundation and Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) to support the implementation of its immediate programme of activity for 2025.

The funding approval follows the publication earlier this year of��Our People, Racing’s Future��– an industry-backed strategy to attract and retain a highly skilled and well supported workforce across British racing and breeding.

The Racing Foundation and HBLB have agreed funding grants of £489,929 and £269,438 respectively – a combined contribution of over £759,000 – to ensure initial activity��for 2025 can start to be delivered.

These grants will support several new initiatives and provide continuity funding for ongoing programmes of work, including:

A substance misuse pilot –��Building on the work of the Newmarket Substance Misuse Support Network��to pilot drug and alcohol testing, education and support in training yards and studs. This work is being led by the National Trainers Federation, National Association of Racing Staff and Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association.
Mentoring training and qualification pilot –��Standardising and aligning existing programmes by introducing an industry-recognised standard for training and qualification in mentoring. Training will be rolled out as part of the Racing Staff Development Programme, with skill-sharing opportunities and peer-to-peer support.
A workforce analysis and forecast –��Developing a better understanding of the industry’s existing skills level, with an initial focus on training yards, to more accurately identify and predict development opportunities and industry recruitment priorities.
Racing Home (continuity funding)��– an ongoing�� to improve the working lives of parents and carers, with a particular focus on encouraging and supporting women to work and remain working in the industry.
JETS jockey coaching (continuity funding)��– to support the enhanced training element of the jockey coaching programme while the HIPB works with the Jockeys Education & Training Scheme (JETS), British Racing School and the Racing Staff Development Programme to develop an aligned industry approach to coaching and training provision.

Alongside the specific initiatives, the funding will support additional roles in the HIPB programme team, based within the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), with new recruitment into key delivery positions and existing personnel retained to oversee the successful implementation of the three-year strategy.

The bolstered team will be led by newly appointed Programme Director Jon Pett, who will take up his role in early May. Jon has a strong background in sport, having worked in senior leadership and performance director roles at Pentathlon GB, British Cycling and Table Tennis England.

He will oversee the coordination and delivery of the activity��in the workforce strategy as an immediate priority for 2025, including in the following areas, where work is already underway or soon to begin:

Expanding vocational training to equip new entrants into the industry with essential skills
Reviewing and redesigning the trainer licence course
Developing a rider development pathway
Strengthening mental and physical wellbeing support services
Creating and embedding clearer, more consistent employment standards
Analysing and building data sets to inform ongoing decision-making.

The funding from the Racing Foundation and HBLB forms part of an overall £4.2 million contribution to wider people-related activity across British racing and breeding during 2025.

Julia Tyson, Chair of the Horseracing Industry People Board, said:

“We are very grateful to the Racing Foundation and Horserace Betting Levy Board for providing this vital funding to support the HIPB’s immediate programme of activity for 2025.

“This is a significant additional investment in racing’s people, which will allow us to deliver new activity and accelerate work already underway, with an immediate focus on supporting those in horse-facing roles.

“I am also delighted to welcome Jon Pett to the role of HIPB programme director. Jon is a highly experienced leader, with an impressive background in sport and a strong track record of workforce programme management and delivery.

“He will work closely with the industry people team within the BHA and industry stakeholders as we implement our strategy and start to make a positive and meaningful difference to the lives of racing’s workforce.”

Tansy Challis, Chief Executive at the Racing Foundation, said:

“The Racing Foundation is pleased to support the Horseracing Industry People Board (HIPB) and its partners with this collaborative grant of up to £489,929. This funding ensures continuity for vital programmes such as the Jockey Coaching Programme and Racing Home, while also piloting new initiatives in mentoring and substance misuse support.

“Supporting these programmes alongside key individuals responsible for delivering crucial elements of the HIPB strategy, in alignment with the British Horseracing Authority, Industry Programme Group and other industry funders, emphasises our commitment to the wellbeing, development and long-term sustainability of the racing workforce.”

Alan Delmonte, Chief Executive of the Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB), said:

“The Horserace Betting Levy Board has awarded grants of up to £269,438 for 2025 to support the Horseracing Industry People Board (HIPB) staff costs and the ‘Workforce Analysis and Forecast Project’. The Board has supported the HIPB since its inception and has agreed further support during the implementation phase of the workforce strategy.”

Notes to editors:

1.��Our People, Racing’s Future –��A Workforce Strategy for the British horseracing Industry is available��, with a summary of the shorter-term priority activities set out on pages 48 – 51.

2.��A summary version of��Our People, Racing’s Future��is available��.

3. Jon Pett, HIPB Programme Director.��With a strong background in sport, Jon joins the Industry People Programme having previously worked as Performance Director for Pentathlon GB, Head of Para-Cycling for British Cycling, and Head of Workforce Development and Performance Programmes at Table Tennis England. He is a Sport Committee Member at the British Paralympic Association and has previously held consultancy and committee roles with UK Sport, the European Cycling Union and as an Advisory Board Member for the Glasgow 2023 World Cycling Championships.

4. About the Horseracing Industry People Board (HIPB):��The��HIPB��was created in May 2023 by the British Horseracing Authority, with support from the Horserace Betting Levy Board, the Racing Foundation, and reporting to the Industry Programme Group, to create a Workforce Strategy to coordinate and develop a long-term approach to our people. The Board is independently chaired and comprises a strong balance of knowledge, skills and subject-matter expertise from within and beyond the racing industry:

Julia Tyson, Chair
Daniel Kübler, Racehorse Trainer, Kübler Racing
George McGrath, Chief Executive, National Association of Racing Staff (NARS)
Helene Sharrock, Chief People Officer, The Jockey Club
John Burgess, Interim Co-Director of Integrity and Regulation, British Horseracing Authority (BHA)
Neil Robertson, Chief Executive, National Skills Academy for Rail
Rob Hezel, CEO and consultant, sport and charity
Tallulah Wilson, Head of International Partnerships, UK Tote Group
Tom Scudamore, former professional Jump jockey

5. About the Racing Foundation: In 2012 the��Racing Foundation��was established to oversee the distribution of funds to charitable causes within the racing and thoroughbred industry following the sale of the Tote. Since inception it has awarded over £39million in grants. Equine welfare, racing’s people and ESG are the key areas of focus in its 2025 – 2027 strategy. The Trustees of the Racing Foundation are Julia Budd (Chair), Linda Bowles (SID), Jim Boyle, Louise Kemble, Alice Page, Rishi Persad and Algy Smith-Maxwell. ��Ǵ��, the Thoroughbred Group and Racecourse Association are the three joint Members of the Racing Foundation, which is registered with the Charity Commission as a charity under the law of England and Wales (no. 1145297).��

6. About the Horserace Betting Levy Board:��The��(HBLB) is a statutory body operating in accordance with the provisions of the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Act 1963 (as amended). Its purpose is to assess and collect monetary contributions from bookmakers via a levy, which it distributes for the improvement of horseracing and breeds of horses, and for the advancement of veterinary science and education.

Shortlists revealed for 2025 Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards, sponsored by Godolphin

Tommy Churchyard — Thu, 05 Dec 2024 09:58:24 +0000

The shortlists have been revealed today for the 2025 ��sponsored by Godolphin, following a bumper crop of high-quality nominations.

Over 200 entries were received from across the British racing and breeding industry, and following a competitive judging process, the expert panel has agreed a shortlist of 10 nominees for each of the six award categories.

With £128,500 in prize money available to be won, the awards are an opportunity to celebrate the exceptional individuals who look after our horses, support our people and make a positive difference in racing’s communities.

The next round of judging will start right away, as each of the six shortlists is narrowed down to three finalists in each category. The finalists will then be judged and the winners and runners up announced at the prestigious TIEA ceremony at York Racecourse on 24 February 2025.

Hosted by broadcaster Rishi Persad, the��will also crown the 2025 Employee of the Year, with special guest appearances from dual Olympic gold medallist Laura Collett MBE and Godolphin retained rider and double champion Flat jockey, William Buick.

All nominees who made it to the shortlist of 10 but do not progress to the final three will receive a £250 prize to mark the significant achievement of having reached this stage of the process.

BHA Chief Executive, Julie Harrington, said:

“Many congratulations to everyone who has been shortlisted for a Thoroughbred Industry Employee Award. You should all feel very proud of this significant achievement and I wish you the very best of luck for the next round of judging.

“I also want to commend those nominees who didn’t quite make the shortlist this year, but should nevertheless feel very pleased with the accomplishment of being nominated by their employers,��peers and friends��in recognition of their hard work and contribution.

“My thanks to our expert judging panel, to our generous sponsors Godolphin, our partners the Racing Post and Racing TV, and to stakeholders from across the industry for helping us promote the nominations period. This is an industry-wide effort and the response we receive for these special awards is truly incredible.”

Chair of the judging panel, Nick Luck, said:

“My judging colleagues and I thought we had our work cut out last year, but these awards continue to go from strength-to-strength and this made for an extremely competitive process – and gave our panel some seriously difficult decisions to make.

“We were particularly pleased to see the range of nominations across different categories, with good geographical spread and welcome representation from operations of varying sizes and disciplines. It is also encouraging to see the breeding community fully embracing the awards, with nominees across the board and not just in the Stud category.

“We look forward to getting to know more about our shortlisted candidates in the second round of judging.”

The shortlisted nominees for each category are:

Newcomer Award
Alex Alton – Whitsbury Manor Stud
Alice Board – Paul Nicholls
Archie Silburn – Gary & Josh Moore
Jessica Hughes – Emma Bishop
Morgan Tidman – Sir Mark Prescott
Phoebe Young – Johnston Racing
Sebastian Thompson – Tweenhills
Tina St John – William Haggas
Tyla Macfarlane – Andrew Balding
Uwitonze Wenham-Beckford – Karl Burke

Leadership Award
Barbara Dare – Hughie Morrison
Charles Guet – Ed Walker
Gary Plasted – Ralph Beckett
Ivo Thomas – Tweenhills
Jack Andrews – Gary & Josh Moore
Jack Conroy – Chasemore Farm
Katie Midgley – Mick & David Easterby
Louisa Allen – Jim Boyle
Mark Ellwood – Nick Alexander
Rachael Lytham – Greenall Guerriero Racing

Rider / Racing Groom Award
Abby Robertson – Katie Scott
Bhanwar Singh – Johnston Racing
Chloe Humphries – Paul Nicholls
Emma Kettlewell – Karl Burke
Jack Brooks – Kevin Frost
Jo Supple – Rod Millman
Kate Williams – Mark Walford
Sarah Macdonald – Julia Feilden
Shannon Moore – Sir Mark Prescott
Simone Meloni – Nicky Henderson

Stud Award
Abbie Salter – Culworth Grounds Farm
Alan Ridger – Garrowby Stud
Christopher Constantine – Shadwell Stud
Fiona McGlone – Hascombe & Valiant Stud
Jessica Buxton – The National Stud
Jill Beazley – Yorton Stud
Karen Holmes – Tweenhills
Kelly Stevens – Littleton Stud
Kim Skolfield – Newsells Park Stud
Tom Turner – Hazelwood Bloodstock

Dedication Award
Anthony Smith – Karl Burke
Audrey Renshaw – Nicky Richards
Dean Angell – Amanda Perrett
Graham McCourt – Tweenhills
Helen Halliwell – James Fanshawe
Jane Smith – John Ryan
Joe Scally – Roger Varian
Kenny Williams – Michael Dods
Mike Marshall – Charlie Fellowes
Robert Storton – Jack Channon

Community Award
Alex Harvey – Newmarket Pony Academy
Anna Collins – Chester Racecourse
Anne Richardson – HEROS Charity
Brian Clements – Racing Welfare
Jacqui Greet – Ascot Racecourse
Jane Barnes – James Moffatt Racing Stables
Lucy Gurney – Racing Together
Sally Lyons – Great British Racing
Sam Warren – Racing, Addictions and Coping with Emotions (RACE)
Sue Dalton – Injured Jockeys Fund (Jack Berry House)

Grassroots – ���Ǵ���

Racing Together Community Week set for 18-24th May

Rider Development Pathway introduced to enhance quality of coaching and support career progression of riders within British racing

Finalists announced for 2026 Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards, sponsored by Godolphin

Shortlists revealed for 2026 Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards, sponsored by Godolphin

MPs welcome British racing’s award winners to Westminster

Powering positive change: British horseracing’s social impact strategy

Nominations open for the 2026 Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards, sponsored by Godolphin

Petition to #AxeTheRacingTax launched as Government tax raid threatens future of British Horseracing

People Board secures funding for 2025 programme of activity

Shortlists revealed for 2025 Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards, sponsored by Godolphin

Grassroots – ��Ǵ��