Jockey coaching programmes win prize

The BHA has been named governing body of the year at the UK Coaching Awards for its coaching provision in 2016.

At an award ceremony on Tuesday evening, the BHA was praised for its jockey coaching programme, created in 2011, that allows apprentices and conditionals to work with qualified coaches to better prepare for a career in racing.

The programme, managed by the British Racing School in Newmarket with support from the Northern Racing College, not only provides coaching on riding skills but advice on dealing with the demands of life as a jockey.

BHA jockey coach Rodi Greene was also shortlisted for the performance development coach of the year award at the ceremony, with the prizes handed out by the Sports Coach UK organisation.

"This award not only recognises the work of our dedicated industry people and development teams and BHA jockey coaches, but also the steps that the sport is taking as a whole to improve its training and welfare services," said BHA chief executive Nick Rust.

"Enhancing the welfare and development of our participants and workforce is a core objective for the sport. The jockey coaching programme is an essential element in this in terms of the support network it provides for young jockeys beginning their career in racing and it is pleasing to see the hard work and commitment of our coaches recognised.

"However, there is always more we can do. I'm determined we continue to improve the support we provide to our sport's participants, both in terms of professional capability and in dealing with the rigours of the horseracing industry."