Providing greater certainty and clarity
Earlier this year, we elucidated the comprehensive process underlying the scheduling of additional fixtures and races, emphasizing their necessity in the broader context of maintaining a robust racing calendar. This initiative is primarily aimed at guaranteeing an adequate number of fixtures that cater to the diverse needs of the horse population and all participants involved in the sport.
The innovative changes we are now implementing are designed to deliver enhanced certainty for participants and clearer communication to customers regarding the dynamics of how, when, and why the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) will opt to include an all-weather (AW) flat fixture that was not part of the initial fixture list.
Throughout the winter months, our strategy will prioritize the introduction of jumps fixtures, especially in circumstances where other fixtures may have been canceled. However, there are also frequent demands to add additional all-weather fixtures due to factors such as the current horse population and the repercussions of unfavorable weather conditions.
When we identify the necessity for an additional all-weather fixture, our decision-making process will now encompass the following key considerations:
Fixture volume
To maintain a seamless racing experience for our customers, we will strive to ensure the following minimum fixture schedule:
- Sunday to Wednesday: A minimum of one fixture will be held each day.
- Thursday to Saturday: At least one afternoon fixture is guaranteed.
On Saturdays, twilight or evening fixtures may be adjusted to facilitate a total of two afternoon fixtures during this session.
Where appropriate, the original fixture may be rescheduled to an earlier start time to guarantee a sufficient racing program throughout the day, ensuring that a minimum of nine races will occur. This could be achieved through either the addition of a late notice race or by instituting a division if one is not otherwise generated.
Geographic criteria
In instances where a Flat fixture has already been abandoned, and there is adequate time available, we will consider adding an additional fixture to meet the necessary criteria. Geographic preferences will be prioritized in this decision-making process.
The additional fixture will first be allocated for scheduling within the same region. If that is not viable, it will be assigned to the closest region. A nationwide offering will only be considered if reallocating within the same or nearest region is unfeasible.
Rider restrictions
A comprehensive roster of eligible jockeys will be published online and updated quarterly, providing vital clarity regarding their participation expectations for each quarterly meeting.
This stipulation will also be enforced for any All-Weather fixtures introduced during the rider-restricted week from Monday, February 17 to Friday, February 21, 2025.
Jumpers Bumpers
During the Flat Code Break in November, if additional fixtures are deemed necessary to meet the specified minimum criteria, these will solely consist of Jumpers Bumpers, thereby safeguarding this period entirely for Flat participants.
Conclusion
We hope that this comprehensive package of changes will significantly enhance the organization and delivery of additional all-weather fixtures as necessary. Our goal is to achieve a more equitable balance between the demands placed on participants and the financial imperatives that come with ensuring sufficient racing opportunities during periods of abandonment.
It is important to note that decisions influenced by weather patterns and track conditions often involve a degree of uncertainty. Nevertheless, we remain committed to collaborating closely with participants, racecourses, and other key stakeholders to strive for accuracy and reliability in our race planning processes.
If you have any queries, please contact us at [email protected].
How will the British Horseracing Authority ensure effective communication of these changes to the racing community?
**Interview with Jane Smith, Director of Fixture Planning at the British Horseracing Authority (BHA)**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Jane. Let’s dive right in. The BHA has recently outlined a comprehensive process for scheduling additional fixtures and races. Can you explain the rationale behind this initiative?
**Jane Smith:** Absolutely! Our main goal is to provide greater certainty and clarity to both participants and customers in the racing community. This initiative is crucial in maintaining a robust racing calendar that meets the diverse needs of horses and all stakeholders involved in the sport.
**Editor:** That makes sense. You mentioned enhanced certainty for participants. What specific changes can they expect regarding all-weather fixtures?
**Jane Smith:** We’re committed to clear communication about how, when, and why we might add an all-weather flat fixture that wasn’t initially in the schedule. Over the winter months, we’ll focus on introducing jumps fixtures, especially if we have cancellations. However, the demand for all-weather fixtures is growing due to the current horse population and weather impacts, and we want to address that proactively.
**Editor:** Interesting. Can you elaborate on the key considerations you will take into account when deciding to add an additional all-weather fixture?
**Jane Smith:** Certainly! Our decision-making process revolves around two main criteria: the volume of fixtures and geographic considerations. We’re setting a minimum fixture schedule to ensure there’s at least one race every day from Sunday to Wednesday and at least one afternoon race Thursday to Saturday. Additionally, if a Flat fixture is abandoned, we’ll evaluate the possibility of adding a new one based on geographic needs.
**Editor:** That sounds well thought out. How do you plan to maintain a seamless racing experience for everyone involved?
**Jane Smith:** We’ll ensure there are enough races each day—aiming for at least nine. This might involve rescheduling original fixtures to an earlier start time or adding late notice races. We’re keen on maximizing the variety and volume of races to create an exciting experience for our customers.
**Editor:** how does the BHA intend to communicate these changes to the racing community?
**Jane Smith:** Communication is key. We will regularly update participants and customers about the fixture schedule, changes, and our decision-making processes through various channels. Transparency is essential for fostering trust and understanding in our operations.
**Editor:** Thank you, Jane. It’s clear the BHA is taking significant steps to strengthen the racing calendar while ensuring clarity for everyone involved.
**Jane Smith:** Thank you for having me! We’re excited about these changes and look forward to enhancing the racing experience together.
