The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has announced a new strategy to improve equality, diversity and inclusion within racing.
Research commissioned by the authority found a “consistent pattern” of racism in the sport towards those from ethnically and culturally diverse backgrounds. The new strategy has therefore been announced to aid underrepresented groups in their journeys within the racing industry.
This announcement arrives in light of a Cheltenham Festival in which no female jockey rode a winner. This is the first time that has happened for over a decade. It was also the first Festival without Rachael Blackmore riding since her retirement, while Bryony Frost has continued her riding career in France.
There has been a boon for inclusivity in racing in recent months courtesy of Aamilah Aswat. She became the first black female jockey to ride a winner in the UK aboard Guchen.
Underrepresented groups experienced “barriers to progression”
In order to improve equality and diversity within the sport, the BHA is leaning on their new strategy.
“The strategy outlines a vision for a sport where everyone feels respected, valued and able to fulfil their potential,” the BHA said, as reported by the BBC.
“It is based on evidence and the experiences of racing’s workforce, many of whom have positive experiences, but not all.”
Their study into racing’s barriers focused on the Urban Equestrian Academy. This enterprise encourages allow those from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue work within the sport. However, the BHA’s study found that all 20 participants had experienced instances of racism.
The BHA’s research is also pertinent based on the recent Cheltenham Festival. It found that, despite 70% of riding school tutees being female, less than 25% of professional jockeys were women. In terms of rides, the number reduces to 9% in terms of overall bookings for female jockeys. This falls further to 3% in top level races.
Rose Grissell, the BHA’s head of diversity and inclusion, thinks the strategy will help make a difference in these key areas.
“The strategy is rooted in evidence and shaped by the lived experiences of people working in racing today, and we offer a huge thank you to those who have taken the time and shown the courage to share these with us,
Many have positive experiences, but not everyone does, and acknowledging that is an important step in supporting positive progress.
“Our aim is to make inclusion part of everyday practice, not an optional extra.”