British Horseracing Authority’s commitment to Cheltenham
As the Cheltenham Festival races into action, the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) takes this opportunity to highlight its unwavering commitment to horse welfare and safety. This prestigious event, which stands as a pinnacle in the racing calendar, not only showcases the sport’s competitive spirit but also reflects the extensive measures taken to ensure the well-being of its equine athletes.
The BHA’s dedication to equine welfare is evident in the comprehensive care system established for the thoroughbreds participating in British racing. Over 6,000 individuals, united by their passion for horses and racing, work tirelessly to provide care for the 20,000+ horses that race annually across England, Scotland, and Wales. This collective effort ensures that the horses receive the highest welfare standards at every stage of their racing journey—before, during, and after their time on the track.
In the past two decades, the BHA has invested over ￡47 million ($36.3 million) in research and education to further enhance these welfare standards. The 2024 Cheltenham Festival exemplifies this investment with its robust veterinary support system, including nine vets, three veterinary nurses, six horse ambulances, and six horse catchers3. Moreover, each runner undergoes a thorough veterinary check before competing, reinforcing the BHA’s proactive approach to welfare.
The BHA’s role extends beyond the racecourse; it sets the welfare standards that all industry participants must follow. These standards are enforced through regulations and disciplinary procedures, ensuring accountability and continuous improvement.
Welfare beyond the finish line
The BHA’s concern for thoroughbreds persists even after their racing careers conclude. In partnership with the charity Retraining of Racehorses (RoR), the BHA supports sustainable solutions for the retirement of racehorses. This initiative provides retired thoroughbreds with a dignified transition to post-racing life, reflecting the BHA’s holistic view of equine welfare.
In addition to its welfare initiatives, the BHA collaborates with the independently-chaired Horse Welfare Board, which oversees 26 projects aimed at advancing all aspects of equine welfare. Currently, 21 of these projects are active, backed by ￡5.5 million in funding, demonstrating the BHA’s dynamic and forward-thinking approach to welfare.
As the Cheltenham Festival continues, the BHA remains vigilant in its mission to protect and promote horse welfare, ensuring that the sport of horseracing honours its most important participants—the horses themselves.
