The horse racing associations of three countries announced a collaboration recently in the hopes to “further internationalize” horse racing. The British Horseracing Authority (BHA), Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) and the Japan Racing Association (JRA) joined forces to create the Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC).
This strategic partnership aims to foster international initiatives and working practices between the British, Irish and Japanese horse racing industries. They also hope to promote the exchange of knowledge, enhancing regulatory cooperation and supporting the breeding industries.
The newly formed committee will be led by Joe Saumarez Smith, the chairman of the BHA. With his extensive experience and leadership in the industry, Saumarez Smith is well-positioned to steer the committee towards its goals. His appointment as chairman underscores the commitment of the BHA and its partners to drive meaningful collaboration and innovation within the horseracing community.
Masayoshi Yoshida, CEO of the JRA, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration.
“I am delighted that the horse racing organizations in Britain and Ireland have united to form the Joint Cooperation Committee with the Japanese Racing Association,’ he said. “It is an important step for Japanese horse racing, and we look forward to working hand-in-hand to create the future of horse racing together.”
Joe Saumarez Smith, Chairman of the Joint Cooperation Committee and the BHA, expressed his gratitude for the support of the JRA and highlighted the potential benefits of collaboration.
“The creation of this Committee is the next step in our relationship, as we further pool our knowledge and insight, and combine our considerable marketing and media assets,” he said. “This can only lead to increased participation, deeper fan engagement, and increased revenues.”
Suzanne Eade, CEO of Horse Racing Ireland, also expressed her support and excitement for the committee’s future, emphasizing Ireland’s commitment to being an active partner in advancing shared objectives and increasing participation and engagement.
One of the primary aims of the committee is to raise awareness of Japanese horses and their achievements within the British, Irish, and international racing communities. By showcasing the talent and success of these horses, the committee hopes to encourage greater participation and engagement from both fans and industry professionals.
The committee also recognized the importance of easing travel and fostering connections between the British, Irish and Japanese horse racing industries. By streamlining logistical processes and creating platforms for communication, the committee aims to encourage the exchange of horses, trainers, jockeys, and other key stakeholders between these regions.
