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19 Oct 2021
The Racing Foundation and The Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association (TBA) have won an award at the British Association for Sustainable Sport (BASIS) Awards which took place on October 19 at the Kia Oval Cricket Ground.
The Environmental Impact of Stud Farms Assessment project took the prize in the Innovation; Initiatives and Products Award Category.
The awards recognise those in the sports sector who have introduced initiatives that have a positive impact on the planet and communities.
It is the first time the horseracing industry has won an award in the area of environmental sustainability, beating other shortlisted nominees from the football and sports manufacturing industries.
Rob Hezel, Chief Executive of the Racing Foundation, said: “We are delighted that the TBA’s project has won an award at the BASIS awards.
“Environmental sustainability is crucial for horseracing’s long term future and as such, we were pleased to fund the Environmental Sustainability of Stud Farms project.
“The Racing Foundation’s 2021-2023 strategy includes environmental sustainability as one of its key funding areas, and this TBA study was the first application of its kind we received.
“We hope this study and its recognised success will build momentum and be the first of many applications for the funding of further research, resourcing and initiatives to enhance sustainability throughout the Thoroughbred sector.”
The Environmental Impact of Stud Farms Assessment project was funded by the Racing Foundation and instigated by the TBA’s Environmental Sustainability Working Group which seeks to collaborate on grassland management practices that enhance air and water quality and soil health, mitigate flood risk and increase biodiversity while also reducing the carbon footprint of studs.
The study is the first of its kind in the horseracing industry and aims to identify the opportunities and obstacles specific to equine pasture management. The project was announced on April 22, 2021, a date known as Earth Day.
James O’Donnell, Chair of the TBA’s Environmental Sustainability Working Group and Assistant Stud Director at Shadwell Stud, said: “Winning this award is a major achievement for the horseracing industry and is the result of a true collaboration between the TBA and the Racing Foundation.
“It shows what can be achieved when the industry works together.
“Environmental sustainability is an important subject that will be at the forefront of people’s minds going forward and this project, and subsequent award, is a great place to start.”
Other award winners at the BASIS awards included Sky Sports, Shoreham FC and Play it Again Sport.
