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The Late Queen Honoured At TBA Annual Meeting

Thoroughbred Breeders' Association Chairman Julian Richmond-Watson led a tribute to Her Majesty, the late Queen Elizabeth II, prior to the start of the TBA's 105th Annual General Meeting at Sandown on Wednesday, Sept. 14.

Richmond-Watson said of the long-time Patron of the TBA, “Her Majesty was the most ardent supporter of Thoroughbred breeding and racing, and we were most fortunate to have such a patron for such a long period of time.

“Her knowledge and interest ensured the Royal Studs enjoyed considerable success throughout her lifetime, and this along with her outstanding contribution to the industry was acknowledged in 2014 with the presentation of the TBA's Andrew Devonshire award.

“The breeder of numerous winners, including five Classic victories, The Queen continually looked to improve the breed and as an owner had the finest year numerically in 2021 in terms of winners on the track, where she was honoured with the TBA Silver Salver.

“On behalf of the entire thoroughbred breeding community we send our heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family at this difficult time. The nation has lost a most treasured monarch and our sport its most respected, admired and loyal Patron.”

There was also a two-minute silence observed, then a pared back AGM took place. After the minutes of the previous AGM were approved, there was a re-election of the auditors, a confirmation of membership fees for 2023 and the appointment of trustees. Jessica Westwood was appointed as a new TBA trustee, while Anita Wigan was appointed as a board member for a second term.

TBA Trustee Jessica Westwood said, “The TBA is very important to me, it supports my industry and my future, as well as that of my clients, and I hope that by joining the board of trustees I can help encourage the next generation of breeders.”

TBA Trustees also updated members on activities in key areas such as the Thoroughbred Industry Brexit Steering Group, equine health and welfare, education and training, and the Great British Bonus scheme.

Richmond-Watson added, “We are at a crossroads in British racing and breeding and unless we act now the gradual decline we are currently seeing will accelerate and we will lose our pre-eminent position in the racing world and with that the interest from the general public and overseas investors.”

For the TBA's Annual Report and for more information on the AGM, please visit the TBA's website.

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Joe Foley Named New Irish EBF Chairman

Joe Foley of Ballyhane Stud has been named the new Chairman of the Irish European Breeders' Fund at the organisation's annual general meeting, while Tom Gaffney of Castlehyde Stud is the new Deputy Chairman. On the Board of the Irish EBF since 2002 as a governor, Foley was appointed to the Deputy Chairman role in 2017. He replaces outgoing Chairman John O'Connor of Ballylinch Stud. Gaffney has served on the Irish EBF for 21 years representing Coolmore Stud and also has a wealth of experience from his role as Chairman of Cork Racecourse.

Joe Foley, Chairman, Irish EBF said, “The Irish EBF board will be forever grateful to John O'Connor for his leadership, dedication, diligence and fairness over the last 10 years in his role as Irish EBF Chairman. He continually upheld the ethos of the Irish EBF and represented the board both at home and at a European level to the highest standards. He gave his time voluntarily to deal with EBF matters and always deliberated with both the small and large stallion owner in mind. He is passing on the leadership of the Irish EBF in very good health and we are delighted that he is staying on the board to help guide us into the future.”

Tom Gaffney, Deputy Chairman, Irish EBF added, “I see first-hand how racecourses benefit from Irish EBF race sponsorship which greatly enhance the race-day programme with added benefits for owners, trainers, jockeys and stable staff. I am looking forward to working with Joe on Irish EBF matters and continuing the great work carried out over the last number of years.”

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TBA Annual General Meeting Held

The Annual General Meeting of the Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association was held online for the first time on Sunday. TBA Chairman Julian Richmond-Watson detailed several key strategic priorities, while also acknowledging the challenges created by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic to the UK Thoroughbred industry. Five 2021 focal points for the TBA Board of Trustees and executive team are as follows:

Resolving issues arising from the UK’s exit from the EU; to include working with industry partners at home and abroad to ensure best possible outcomes for the industry, its people, trade and horse movement.
Maintaining and developing relationships with key industry and government figures who can potentially influence and support TBA activities.
Providing further direct support for breeders, including development of the Great British Bonus scheme.
Participating and influencing industry decisions on prize-money, ensuring racing is adequately funded at every level, while maintaining the appeal and competitiveness of Britain’s top-level races globally.
Improving the TBA’s digital services, including developing and launching a new e-learning platform to provide easy and affordable access to industry training.

Several positive developments in 2020 include: the TBA gaining approval from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) for the Great British Bonus scheme which has already paid out over £1 million in prize-money. The quick adaption of communications and services for members through the coronavirus crises was also recognised as a success.

“British breeders need more support,” said Richmond-Watson. “GBB [the Great British Bonus] is a great start, but if racecourses wish to run the size of the programme they desire, they will need us to maintain and produce more foals on the ground and that will only happen if breeders feel confident about the future.”

Also during the meeting, the term of the incumbent chairman was increased from six years to eight after a special resolution was adopted, with upcoming challenges ranging from Brexit, COVID-19, prize-money issues, and Levy reform. A new membership category was also created, the associate subscription, allowing discounted or free access to TBA courses and events for £60 per year. In addition, Laundry Cottage Stud owner Colin Bryce and Kate Sigsworth of West Moor Stud were elected to the Board of Trustees. For more details on the TBA Annual General Meeting, please visit www.tba.co.uk.

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