James Given will cease training at the end of the year to take up the role of Director of Equine Health and Welfare with the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) from January.
Given qualified as a vet in 1990 and was assistant trainer to fellow vet Mark Johnston before starting training in his own right in 1998. Since then his stable has been represented by the G2 Flying Childers S. victrix Wunders Dream (Ire) and fellow group winners Dandino (GB), Trick Or Treat (GB), Summitville (GB), Jessica’s Dream (Ire), Lady Gloria (GB) and Indian Days (GB) as well as the classy stayer Hugs Dancer (GB).
Currently chair of the BHA’s Ethics Committee, he is also a member of the racing industry’s Horse Welfare Board and a trustee of the British Racing School.
Given, who will replace David Sykes in the role, said, “I am delighted to be joining the BHA and welcome the opportunity to strive for ever-improving welfare standards for racehorses. The current standards are world leading, but there is no time to rest on our laurels in a world demanding greater accountability. I look forward to working with colleagues across the industry, to show that racing is a compassionate sport that puts the welfare of horses at the centre of all we do. I know I am joining a team that shares and represents these ideals.”
He added, “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as a trainer and am eternally grateful to all the people who have helped me along this journey—to the owners, many who have become friends, and the outstanding people who have been part of my team, over many years of hard work. I am also grateful to all the horses, fast and slow, willing and less so, that it has been a privilege and a pleasure to look after.”
The BHA’s chief regulatory office Brant Dunshea commented, “We are extremely excited to welcome James to this role. He brings with him not only extensive clinical experience as a veterinarian, but also first-hand experience of training racehorses at the highest level. He has already been integral to the development of the industry’s welfare strategy through his involvement on the Horse Welfare Board, this will complement the equally important regulatory requirements of the role.
“We are delighted that James will be able to continue the excellent work of David Sykes who has made significant progress in his time at the BHA in modernising the equine health and welfare department and improving the quality of life of our horses. We are grateful to David for everything he has done on behalf of the sport.”
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