British fixture list to be cut by 80
Publication of the 2012 programme, delayed because of discussions on funding from the Levy Board, will be no later than September 30.
The fixture allocation process has been suspended since early June, but funding is expected to be confirmed at the next Levy Board meeting on September 14 after which the total number will be finalised.
The decision to cut fixtures, explained in a BHA statement, was “due to concerns regarding the ability of the declining horse population to continue to service the existing fixture list.”
It added that recent analytical research into the likely impact of sharply falling foal crops strongly suggested an increased rate of decline in horse numbers in 2012.
As nearly 40% of races attract seven or fewer runners, the reduction had been approved with a view to protecting racing’s competitiveness.
However, the major events in the 2012 calendar will not be affected by the ongoing discussions, and have been published.
Ruth Quinn, BHA director of racing, said: “Although the size and shape of the fixture list cannot be finalised until the impact of the significantly reduced levy has been confirmed, we have taken this action to try to ensure that falling horse numbers will not erode the attractiveness of British racing, both as a sporting spectacle and as a betting medium.
Racecourses have been made aware of the changes, and the process of consultation regarding the removal of fixture slots is ongoing.
