Evidence based strategies fundamental to the work of the TBA at 107th Annual General Meeting with incentives and intervention the way forward

Philip Newton, Chairman of the Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association at the 107th annual general meeting held on Tuesday 13 August, reiterated the importance of evidence-based strategies essential to making a difference despite ongoing challenges, and that incentive and intervention was working and is the way forward if the industry is to ensure a sustainable future.

Addressing members and trustees who gathered at Newbury racecourse, Newton highlighted the positive impact that both the Elite Mares’ Scheme and the Great British Bonus Scheme were having on the industry saying: “We believe that additional money needs to be set aside to reward breeders and owners that adopt policies and behaviours that deliver and influence positive change and participation for the whole health of the sport.”

Newton went on to talk about the role of the TBA as a member of the Thoroughbred Group who work and deliver for the industry, as well as the breeders who supply the product, and where usually through this channel that collective decisions are reached and then promoted to the BHA. However Newton shared his frustration with self-interests within the industry, which have different and more immediate agendas and were slowing down progression.

Similarly, Newton discussed the need for transformational change to racing’s finances saying: “To rely upon the structure and funding model that has existed since 1962 and with media rights from 1986 is to plan to fail and I am not being dramatic or overstating the potential crisis that we are facing.”  

The TBA are leading on an all industry working group that is exploring the opportunities that different audiences and different markets can provide for our racing product, and are due to commence Phase 2 of this project shortly, with an expected report due at the end of the year.  

One key area where the TBA has stepped up to the plate is equine welfare and while there has been much talk and good intentions within the industry, the TBA called for action to deliver a clear structure, strategy and funding solution.

Newton commented: “We have the foundations of a structure with RoR to deliver aftercare, we have the HWB to set the strategies and police delivery, we urgently need a funding proposal, and I am grateful to my Deputy Chair Kate Sigsworth who has taken this responsibility on and is close to a proposal that already has much industry stakeholder support.”

On the more specific issues faced by breeders, Newton commented: “Evidence-based strategies have been at the heart of the TBA’s work since the initial EIS study in 2014 and led the subsequent 2018 and 2023 studies, providing a sound basis for areas of focus in our work to support breeders and the industry. The results of the most recent study ensure that our work is directed  on activities that deliver the greatest positive impact to our sector.”

Two specific areas highlighted were how a targeted and well considered incentive scheme can change behaviour and it now pays to breed, buy, race and retain British. Since the Great British Bonus scheme launched in June 2020, over £16m has been paid out in bonuses to owners, winning connections and breeders and over the last four years, at sales there has been a 16.3% increase in the median price of a GBB eligible filly.  

Newton paid tribute to Paul Darling KC OBE, Chairman of the Horse Race Betting Levy Board following his passing last week saying: "Paul was a constant and consistent voice of reason for the industry and his wise counsel will not be easily replaced. The TBA and the Breeding Industry has much to thank Paul for, particularly, his encouragement and support of the Great British Bonus.”

The meeting’s official matters of business included confirmation of the extension of Newton's term of office to 2027 to ensure he could carry out a full term as Chair and the appointment of two new elected trustees in Joe Callan and Jan Hopper. It was also confirmed that Kate Sigsworth had been re-elected for a second term and would continue as Deputy Chair. 

Newton thanked Colin Bryce who stepped down after four years as a Trustee saying: “Colin has been a rock and contributed to every respect and the Trustee who when he speaks you listen. The Board will be the less without him, but I know he is generous enough to be available when we are certain to need his wise head in the future.”

The 2023 Annual Report was formally launched and can be viewed here with highlights including:

• Publication of the third Economic Impact Study in January 2023 and key recommendations
• Ongoing positive impact of the Great British Bonus Scheme managed by the TBA on behalf of the industry with the support of the HBLB.
• The launch of the TBA Stud Farm Carbon Calculator launched in November 2023 developed by ADAS with the support of the Racing Foundation.
• Re-launch of the TBA’s ACCESS membership and the inaugural ACCESS Foal Forum in December 2023.
• Ongoing development of the TBA’s learning platform, TB-Ed, including the launch of the Business Essentials Programme with a 40% growth in registered users.
• Commitment in excess of £240,000 over next three years to supporting veterinary research projects of specific interest to thoroughbred breeders.