Nichols expands on decision to leave

Greg Nichols has spoken of the reasons behind his decision to leave the post of chief executive at the British Horseracing Board later this year.

The Australian, who has held the role since 2002, will not be putting his name forward for the role in racing’s restructured governing authority as he would prefer not to make a long-term commitment to the position.

He therefore will stand down in mid-2006 to ensure an appropriate transitional period.

“It was purely my decision to leave and I’ve come to that decision because I couldn’t commit myself to the long-term project as I wasn’t prepared to go beyond 2007,” Nichols told PA Sport.

“I thought it was time to step down and let someone do the role who was prepared to commit to the role for a lot longer than I could.

“I thought it was important to get the message out there in the open for no other than reason than to stress that we need to get the restructure through and there can be a search for my successor.

“It won’t be my decision who replaces me but part of the restructure is to find a job specification that fits the role and by getting this out in the open we can start the search for suitable candidates and move forward as an organisation.

“I’ve no real plans for the future, basically whatever pops up. Hopefully someone will find something suitable for me. I never worry too much about the future. It will all unfold as time goes.

“I’ve enjoyed it very much and I’ve always regarded it as a privilege to work for the BHB. Not one morning have I woken up and not wanted to go to work.

“British racing is by far the best in the world and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time.”