Louise Norman took full charge of the Racehorse Owners Association on July 4th last year, recognising interdependence and stronger communications as crucial in driving forward the 80-year-old organisation for the benefit of all owners.

I’m delighted to introduce myself as the Chief Executive of the Racehorse Owners Association (ROA). Since stepping into the role, it’s been a whirlwind, full of challenges, yes, but also packed with opportunity. I’ve always believed in diving in with both feet, and that’s exactly what I’ve done. With a fresh perspective and a genuine passion for racing, I’m here to build on the ROA’s foundations while driving us into a future that reflects the ambition and spirit of racing’s owners.

Ownership experiences a focal point

At its core, the ROA exists to serve and represent all owners, the people whose passion and support keep our sport going. The ROA’s funding is achieved through its membership activity, which provides racing-related benefits to over 7,000 members. However, the ROA has a clear mandate: to be the voice of all owners, to champion their interests, and to build a more connected, responsive and rewarding experience.

How we get there will rely on strengthening our communication, understanding the needs of our ROA members and the wider ownership community through research and one-to-one conversations. The aim is to improve how we represent owners across the sport through delivering practical benefits that make all owners feel recognised, valued and more involved throughout their ownership experience.

From Racing Clubs, Syndicates to long-standing Sole Owners, we want every voice to be heard and every owner to feel part of something bigger.

Why Community Engagement matters

For racing to thrive, it must matter to the communities it touches. Across the country, the sport is already making an impact — in schools, towns, and with local charities via racecourses, trainers, studs and aftercare centres – with the horse at the centre. There’s something uniquely powerful about meeting a thoroughbred – it creates instant connection.

We need to remember the good that racing can and does do. But community engagement can’t be a nice-to-have. It should be a shared commitment across the sport: inclusive, ongoing, and rooted in real relationships to help keep racing relevant, trusted, and open to all.

Supporting Racing to School to keep inspiring young people

One example of our mission is our evolving partnership with Racing to School, an extraordinary charity that brings the sport alive for young people through educational days at racecourses, racing yards, and studs.

Racing to School does more than introduce pupils and students to racing, it uses the sport as a platform to build confidence, curiosity, and aspiration. It shows that racing is not just about horses, but about careers, community, and opportunities. That’s why the ROA is proud to deepen our partnership with their work.

Together, we’re working to create a racing industry that doesn’t just entertain but educates and empowers.

Building momentum

I’m excited about the possibilities ahead, and realistic about the challenges, too. From creating more inclusive ownership experiences and better recognition for all owners, to enhancing what we offer ROA members, there’s real opportunity for progress. But this isn’t just about ownership, it’s about collaboration across the industry and finding innovative and authentic ways to connect with the wider community, so more people feel part of racing, and racing feels more relevant to them.

A Personal commitment

On a personal note, I’m deeply passionate about horseracing and the incredible community that surrounds it. I believe wholeheartedly in the power of education and the positive impact it can have on young lives. Through my role at the ROA, I’m committed not only to serving racehorse owners, but also to supporting the wider community through education and raising awareness of the sport and the critical role owners play. 

I’d like to extend my thanks to everyone across the charity sector working under the Racing Together banner, the ROA team, and the wider racing community for such a warm welcome over the last nine months. I’m excited about the journey ahead and look forward to working together to shape a vibrant, inclusive future for our sport.

Together, we can achieve great things.