Cracks showing in the initiative for grassroots funding

I did not think it would take long for the supposed solid support among racing’s leading lights for the ‘grassroots’ to be one of the main beneficiaries of increased funding from the reformed levy to begin to show serious cracks.

The Racing Post (July 26) was full of articles and comments showing how quickly this support is unravelling. John Pullin of Arena Racing Company stated: “While it is hoped that as many races as possible will unlock the additional incentive payments and appearance money, until all funding is confirmed in September racecourses will not be in a position to confirm final race values.” I take that as meaning, don’t hold your breath there will not still be £3,500 three-mile hurdles at Newcastle this winter.

Charles Barnett, secretary general of the Large Independent Racecourse Group – Ascot, Ayr, Chester, Goodwood, Newbury and York – said that while it supported the focus on the grassroots it asked for the top of racing’s pyramid not to be neglected.