The British Horseracing Authority, also known simply as the BHA, is the regulatory authority for horse racing in Great Britain.
It was formed on 31 July 2007, after the merger of the British Horseracing Board (BHB) and the Horseracing Regulatory Authority (HRA).
Its stated objectives are to: "provide the most compelling and attractive racing in the world; be seen as the world leader in race day regulation; ensure the highest standards for the sport and participants, on and away from the racecourse; promote the best for the racehorse; and represent and promote the sport and the industry."
It is a member of the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities. The BHA's current chair is Joe Saumarez Smith, who succeeded Annamarie Phelps in the role in June 2022.
Overview
The British Horseracing Authority performs a number of functions. These include: Race planning Disciplinary procedures Protecting the integrity of the sport Licensing and registering racing participants Setting and enforcing standards of medical care for jockeys and other participants Setting and enforcing common standards for British racecourses Research and improvements in equine science and welfare Regulating point to point (steeplechase) racing in the UK Compilation of the fixture list Setting and enforcing the rules and orders of racing
Integrity
The Authority's Integrity Services Department performs some of its most well-publicised duties. These include: Identifying and deterring breaches of the Rules of Racing and malpractice in horse racing Conducting investigations into breaches of the Rules of Racing Gathering information in respect of potential wrongdoing in horse racing Inspections of training establishments Monitoring real-time betting markets for suspicious betting activity
Careers In Racing
Careers In Racing (also known simply as CIR) is an industry-owned brand managed by the Industry Recruitment & Training department of the British Horseracing Authority. Careers In Racing acts as the recruitment and training portal for horse racing and thoroughbred breeding in Great Britain. Careers In Racing was launched in 2005 in response to a recommendation made by the Stable and Stud Staff Commission chaired by Lord Donohugh. The commission highlighted the need for a governing body led recruitment and training strategy to help address staff shortages and improve retention of existing staff. Its objectives are: To promote racing as a potential career choice and job opportunity. To provide a one-stop shop for career information through the website CareersInRacing.com To provide effective training and education to both new entrants, existing staff, and employers. To work with the industry to develop and retain staff.
Its website was launched in January 2006 and gives an overview of the careers and training available within the Racing and Breeding industries and offers a free online jobs board.