The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has today announced that, following an extensive, global recruitment process, Shaun Parker – Chief Stipendiary Steward for the National Horseracing Authority of South Africa based in Durban – has been appointed as its new Head of Stewarding.

Having begun his career as a Stipendiary Steward in South Africa in 1995, Shaun was Deputy Chairman of Stewards in Johannesburg before taking up a role as Stipendiary Steward in Britain during 2006-2007 for the then Horseracing Regulatory Authority (HRA).  Shaun returned to South Africa and has been Chairman of Stewards for the National Horseracing Authority in Durban since 2008, where he has been responsible for officiating over South Africa’s greatest horseracing fixture, the Durban July Handicap at Greyville Racecourse.

In total Shaun has more than 24 years of experience in Stewarding roles in Britain and South Africa.

The Head of Stewarding role is responsible for management of the BHA’s stewarding team, and for overseeing strategic development with the objective of ensuring that British racing delivers the highest possible standards of raceday regulation. Shaun will also play a key leadership role in the ongoing roll-out of the sport’s new “One Team” raceday officiating model.

Brant Dunshea, Chief Regulatory Officer for the BHA, said:  

“British horseracing is a world leader amongst racing nations, and it is crucial that its most senior steward is of a calibre worthy of the role. That is exactly what we have with Shaun – not only does he have an appreciation of the rich history of British racing having previously worked here, he also brings with him extensive experience as a leading regulator with a major international jurisdiction, and a genuinely international reputation.

“Our thanks go again to Paul Barton, who has recently retired from the role of Head of Stewarding, for his years of dedicated service to the sport.”

Shaun will commence in the role on a date to be confirmed later in the Autumn.