The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) can today confirm that it has commissioned an economic impact study for Welsh horseracing to demonstrate the vital role the industry plays in Wales.
The study, which will be completed this Autumn, will provide for the first time an independent and evidence-based assessment of the economic contribution made by Welsh horseracing to the Welsh economy.
The project will be led by Arad, a Cardiff-based research organisation specialising in policy areas such as education, skills and economic development.
Arad provides a range of services including strategic research, programme evaluation and impact analysis and work for a diverse client base which includes the Welsh Government.
The project, which is being financially supported by Arena Racing Company (ARC) on behalf of Chepstow and Ffos Las racecourses and Chester Race Company (CRC) on behalf of Bangor-on-Dee racecourse, will involve surveys of stakeholders and businesses within the Welsh horseracing community and spectators attending meetings on Welsh racecourses over the remainder of the summer.
A full written report will be published in both English and Welsh at the conclusion of the process and is expected to be used for both promotional and advocacy purposes.
Greg Swift, Director of Communications and Corporate Affairs at the BHA, said:
“We are delighted to commission Arad Research to carry out this important work on behalf of the thriving and historic horseracing industry in Wales.
“The sport is undoubtedly an economic and cultural powerhouse in Wales. But we want clear evidence to present to the Government that shows the significance of the industry across the country and the role it plays in growing regional economies and communities.
“The survey is crucial to supporting the research and the economic evidence, so we are asking Welsh racing and breeding businesses to support and contribute to Arad’s work and help us demonstrate to policy makers the essential role horseracing plays in Wales.”
On behalf of Arad, Director Hefin Thomas said:
“We’re pleased to have been commissioned to undertake this important research which will examine the economic contribution of horseracing in Wales. This will include consideration of the direct impact of activities at Chepstow, Ffos Las and Bangor-on-Dee racecourses as well as wider economic impacts throughout the sector and supply chain.”
On behalf of Arena Racing Company, Regional Director for the South and West Phil Bell said:
“We very much look forward to working with Arad, our colleagues at the BHA, Bangor on Dee Racecourse and everyone across the world of Welsh horseracing to make sure that we can show exactly what a success story our sport is, and how important it is to a wide range of communities in Wales.”
On behalf of Chester Racing Company, Chief Executive Louise Stewart said:
“We feel that it is really important for Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse to collaborate with the BHA and other Welsh racecourses to support this research project.
“Horse racing plays a significant role in Wales, supporting jobs, attracting tourism and generating economic activity in communities. While we witness its impact in the North Wales economy, robust evidence is vital to ensuring the industry’s value is fully understood as we continue to work closely with Government.
“We look forward to the findings of the report, which will help showcase the contribution our racecourses make to the sporting and economic landscape of Wales. Just as importantly, it will provide valuable insights to help shape the future growth and success of the industry.”
