COVID-19 (Coronavirus)

Racing Update

We continue to monitor the national situation re: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and the effect on UK horse racing closely.

Please view the BHA website for the latest information:

https://www.britishhorseracing.com/news-media/press-releases/

Effect of pandemic upon syndicates in racing

The implications of the pandemic will last long after the resumption of racing and have an impact on the whole of the industry. 

Syndicate managers may be left with shareholding to sell and the liability not just for the capital cost of those shares but the ongoing training and racing costs. Individual and syndicate owners may be financially impacted and struggle to pay their bills. Prize money will be reduced.

The RSA has been active in reminding the BHA and ROA of the importance of owners and their contribution to the sport. At a time when racing is returning without owners in attendence, it is RSA would like to see the ROA and BHA do everything possible to provide an outstanding ‘ownership experience at home’.

“The RSA understands the financial pressure that the current situation may place on Syndicate Managers but also recognises that financial impact will be felt across the industry as a whole.  While the pandemic has been tragic, the RSA recognises the opportunity to improve aspects of racing, in particular the off-course ownership experience. The RSA hopes that the industry will do everything to support owners during this difficult time which will lead to the industry emergeing with a better ownership experience than before the pandemic” Dan Abraham, RSA Chairman

Thank you to stable staff

While many people are able to work from home, this does not apply to the thousands of staff working in racing yards across the country who are dedicated to the care of racehorses.  Their efforts should be appreciated in what are difficult conditions to be continuing to work.

“The RSA wishes to acknowledge the efforts of trainers and their teams across the country in maintaining high standards of care for racehorses during difficult circumstances.” Dan Abraham, RSA Chairman

Personal impact of COVID-19

Many syndicate owners may be struggling financially, sick or lonely as a result of the current situation.  Syndicate managers often have personal relationships with their owners and can play a role in ensuring that everyone supports each other during difficult circumstances. 

“The RSA is aware that many syndicate managers have personal relationships with the owners in their syndicates.  For some syndicate members racing is their only social interaction. The RSA would encourage all syndicators to reach out to their owners to offer any support that they can make available.” Dan Abraham, RSA Chairman

Useful links:

We wish everyone involved in racing all the best during this unprecedented event and in the meantime you may find the following links useful: