Changes Made to Improve UK Owner Experience

After feedback from owners, trainers and other industry members, the owner experience in the UK has been enhanced, the British Horseracing Authority announced on Monday. The BHA, along with the Racehorse Owners Association (ROA), Racecourse Association (RCA) have agreed to several changes to enhance the owner experience on raceday, despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The measures are as follows:

• Good communication–racecourses will send timely communications regarding badges, entry requirements and amenities available on course prior to attendance.
• Badge allocation–most racecourses are offering an increased number of badges per declared horse, to enable more owners to enjoy the day in a safe and comfortable way. Allocation will vary depending on the capacity of the racecourse owner zone. Racecourses also have the flexibility to extend the number per horse once it is known how many owners plan to visit.
• Time on course–owners can stay on the racecourse for the entire meeting when they have a runner.
• Hospitality–in line with wider guidance on restaurants, pubs and bars. This includes complimentary hot food and beverages, and access to a bar serving alcohol.
• Briefing areas–where owners can speak with their jockey and trainer before and after races. These areas should be easily accessible, and every effort has been made to ensure proximity to the parade ring.
• Celebrations–a space within the owners' zone for post-race celebrations and presentations in addition to photographs and mementos for all winning owners.
• Betting–as part of a trial, owners will have access to on course betting services.
• Parade ring–access the parade ring rail for views of the paddock.
• Trackside viewing–as well as views of a big screen and TV's from within the owners' zone.

Due to COVID, some safety restrictions remain in place, and the behind-closed-doors protocols will be continously refined. For more information, please go to the Returning to the Racecourse section of the ROA website.