The BHA’s research into underrepresented groups in racing highlighted “negative experiences, barriers to progression (which are often hidden), inconsistent support, and a lack of trust in reporting systems”.
A study which focused on the Urban Equestrian Academy – a social enterprise aimed at providing people from inner-city and diverse backgrounds access to horses and equestrian – found that all 20 participants had reported experiencing racism.
In the same study, all participants said that race had impacted their career progression.
One participant shared that they had thought about suicide “on a few occasions because of the way I was treated”.
Meanwhile, 40% (67) of respondents in a separate survey said they had experienced, witnessed, or had reported to them inappropriate or poor behaviour because of ethnicity or cultural background.
Some reported verbal abuse including aggressive racist language such as “dirty refugee” and “better off if you had been bombed”.
The new strategy also identified a significant underrepresentation in female jockeys, with only 25% of jockeys being women despite them making up 70% of racing school students and 50% of racing staff. Women also receive just 9% of rides and only 3% in top-tier races.
“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,” the BHA’s head of diversity and inclusion, Rose Grissell, said.
“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.”
The BHA’s new equality, diversity and inclusion strategy includes the following proposals:
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Strengthen leadership and accountability
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Build equitable practices to address bias and barriers
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Improve education and awareness to act inclusively
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Better support and celebrate an inclusive culture
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Engage new audiences and make the sport more accessible
BHA chief executive Brant Dunshea said the new strategy was about ensuring the “long-term health and success” of horse racing.
“To attract talent, fans and investment, we must ensure that everyone who works in or engages with racing feels safe, respected and able to thrive,” he said.
“British racing is at its best when it is open, welcoming and reflective of the society around us.”
