Wincanton forced to cancel opening meeting because of hard ground

Wincanton has called off its jumps season opener next week due to hard ground after an inspection on Thursday morning.

The Somerset course was set to open its doors on October 13 for a six-race jumps card but has been forced to cancel the meeting due to dry conditions and lack of forecast rain.

The course will now aim to open for the new season with its charity raceday on October 23.

The decision follows similar problems at Exeter, which transferred its jumps card to Warwick this week after conditions were found to be unsafe for racing.

Exeter's next meeting on October 18 will open for entries but the course is awaiting a BHA inspection before declarations take place.

New general manager at Epsom

James Crespi has been named Epsom's new general manager and will take up the post on December 5.

The appointment of Crespi, who previously managed Goodwood, is part of a management shake-up across Epsom, Sandown and Kempton racecourses.

Crespi said: "Epsom is steeped in legacy and a unique venue; I look forward to delivering first-class racing and helping to ensure the Derby remains the greatest Flat race globally for generations to come.”

Pontefract among the nominations again as Showcase Awards return

Four previous champions lead the way for this year's 11th annual Racecourse Association Showcase Awards with three nominations apiece for the event at Pontefract on November 10.

Aintree, Ascot, York and the hosts Pontefract all have chances to add to their tally at the awards which are taking place for the first time since 2019 due to the impact of the pandemic.

The winners of nine different categories, along with the groundstaff award and overall Showcase champion, will be crowned at the ceremony, which celebrates excellence and innovation in racecourse operation and raceday experience.

Former champion Hamilton will also be looking for success after two nominations alongside Cheltenham, Chester, Epsom, Goodwood, Lingfield, Musselburgh, Newmarket and Ripon, who all impressed the judges and scooped two nominations apiece.

Great British Racing chief executive Rod Street said: "I am sure the event will be welcomed back warmly by racecourses, all of whom benefit from the share of best practice and celebration of innovation."

John Ferguson to succeed Luca Cumani on BHA board

Former Godolphin chief executive John Ferguson has joined the BHA board as one of its two member-nominated directors.

BHA chairman Joe Saumarez Smith said the governing body was delighted to welcome Ferguson to the post.

He added: "He brings with him extensive experience of the training and bloodstock industries, alongside his intimate knowledge of the industry’s workings from his time as a senior leader in the sport."

Ferguson succeeds Luca Cumani, and Saumarez Smith went on: "It was a privilege to work with someone of his knowledge and distinction.

"His understanding of every aspect of the horse and their training was of great benefit to the board and the sport."

Ferguson, who was nominated by the Thoroughbred Breeders' Association, Racehorse Owners Association and National Trainers Federation (acting on behalf of licensed personnel), said he was honoured to have been offered the role.

He added: "Having worked as a member of stable staff and had my first novice hurdle winner at Hexham, through to breeding, owning and selling horses all over the world, I hope that I am able to well represent licensed personnel.

"It is now in our hands to shape horseracing into a sustainable and fabulous sport for future generations."

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