Speaking regarding an announcement made today by The Jockey Club concerning their future plans, Nick Rust, Chief Executive of the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), said:

“We acknowledge and understand the reasons behind the Jockey Club’s announcement earlier today. The BHA will work with the Jockey Club in the development of their plans, to ensure that the long-term interests of the sport – and its grassroots – are best served in the coming years, with a particular focus on safeguarding the future health of jump racing. It is early days yet, but should Kempton close, its jump fixtures will remain as jump fixtures.

“The proposed Newmarket All Weather track would need to go through the usual processes for the addition of new racecourses, which includes the submission of an application for approval by the BHA Board, and ensuring that the course would meet all the necessary licensing criteria.”

Notes to Editors

1. The Jockey Club’s statement can be found here: http://www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/news/proposed-half-a-billion-pound-investment-in-british-racing.