British Racing School announce pioneering sustainability education programme

Racing has felt the full brunt of an unpredictable climate in recent years, and this is unlikely to change, which is why the sport’s attitude is evolving as part of its future strategy.

The British Racing School’s (BRS) announcement of a new training course as part of their wider environmental sustainability programme could not have come at a better time. Funded by the Racing Foundation, the new programme will be available to all those who work in the racing, and will initially be in person during the summer of 2023. It will then subsequently be available online and on the Racing2learn platform.

The announcement comes after the results of the findings of an independent investigation commissioned by the BHA and funded by the Racing Foundation. It demonstrated that work must be done to mitigate and minimise the risks and impact of climate change within the racing industry and the wider community. Water shortages, impacts on ground conditions, equine disease and supply chain issues are only some of the climate-related issues that will have huge ramifications for the future of the sport.

Andrew Braithwaite, Chief Executive of the BRS said: “Educating our industry about the threats of environmental sustainability and supporting people in their understanding of how to adapt is now a key part of our education programme. This year the British Racing School celebrates turning 40-years-old. If the school is still to be educating students, jockeys, trainers and leaders of the industry in another 40 years, it is vital we play our part in addressing the issues surrounding climate change to safeguard the future of racing and the planet.”

Rob Hezel, Chief Executive of the Racing Foundation added: “We are heartened by the response from several racing organisations following White Griffin’s environmental sustainability in horseracing report that was funded by the Racing Foundation in 2022. It’s fantastic the BRS are one of those organisations that are making environmental sustainability a priority. We look forward to seeing even more individuals and organisations inspired to act through this work.”

White Griffin, environmental sustainability consultants who specialise in equestrian and horseracing will be helping to manage the programme.

Ruth Dancer, Director of White Griffin said: “This is one of the most important projects we are delivering in 2023 because we know change will only happen when people understand not just the problem, but more specifically, tangible actions they can take to address the range of challenges. We have a passion for education at all levels within White Griffin and we are committed to supporting the British Racing School with delivering a course that will inspire, motivate, educate and empower people to act in their own workplaces.”

White Griffin and the BRS will be working with educators and leading bodies within the sport to ensure that a unified industry-wide approach is followed using methods of best practice. If you would like to share insights or get involved, please contact ruth@whitegriffin.co.uk.