Brian Finch will succeed Julia Budd as Chair of Epsom Downs Racecourse beginning on June 5, The Jockey Club announced on Tuesday. Budd's term will end after G1 Cazoo Derby weekend. Exposed to racing through visits to Borrowdale Racecourse in Zimbabwe as a child, Finch has owned racehorses for over 25 years in various countries. Finch joined the Epsom Racecourse Committee in 2021. Currently retired, he is also a member of the Racecourse Committee at Sandown Park Racecourse and a Trustee of the National Horseracing Museum.
Finch said, “I am delighted and hugely honoured to succeed Julia at Epsom Downs, a racecourse that will soon host the 243rd running of the iconic Derby.
“I very much look forward to working with the Jockey Club team to build on the great work of my immediate and past predecessors ensuring that the Derby and Epsom Downs racecourse continue to remain part of the national social fabric.”
Sandy Dudgeon, Senior Steward of The Jockey Club, said, “I am delighted that Brian has agreed to become Chair of Epsom Downs Racecourse following this year's historic Derby.
“His experience both inside the racing industry and beyond, coupled with his huge enthusiasm for the sport and Epsom Downs will be a huge asset as our stewardship of this iconic racing venue and its most famous race enters a new and exciting chapter.
“I must also thank Julia for her dedication, time, and wise counsel in her time as chair. Her guidance in navigating the unprecedented challenges of the last two years has been invaluable and this year's Derby and its place in the Platinum Jubilee Celebrations will be a fitting way to end her term. She does so with my best wishes and the sincerest thanks of all at The Jockey Club.”
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