Racing boosts Ukraine support as trainers speak of distraught staff

Two leading trainers have spoken of their "distraught" Ukrainian staff, as racing moved to support those left most shocked and horrified by frightening events in their home country.

The National Association of Racing Staff (Nars) reports Britain has 28 registered staff from Ukraine, whose invasion by Russian forces has led to worldwide condemnation and huge outpourings of sympathy for the attacked country.

Three work in Lambourn for Jamie Osborne, who said: "It's been very difficult for them. We have three Ukrainians and they've been here a long time. What's happening has been horrible for them.

"I have a husband and wife that work for me, they have a young child here but obviously they're worried about their families back home. The other girl who works for me went home a few weeks ago to try to sort a few things out in case this happened.

"It's very hard to get your head round the fact that in 2022 we can almost relive a 1939 scenario. I don't think there is anyone with any semblance of compassion who is not coming out supportive of the Ukrainians and that is certainly the case in the yard."

Alan King has been supportive of the three Ukrainians in his yard and said in his Racing Post Weekender column: "They are distraught.

"All their families and friends are over there and it's awful for them. The three have been here for years, going home for two or three weeks each summer, and I really feel for them at the moment."

Alan King: 'I really feel for them at the moment'Credit: Edward Whitaker

Nars is keen to help Ukrainian members and chief executive George McGrath said: "We are getting information from them, seeing how they are doing, seeing if there is any help they need in whatever shape or form.

"We will do anything we can. We've already started collections of things that will help with the humanitarian crisis and there are a lot of organisations doing that."

The BHA has liaised with Nars and is also looking into any Russian investment in British racing.

In a statement, it said: “The BHA joins many people and organisations across British racing in publicly and wholeheartedly condemning Russian military actions in Ukraine and stands alongside our Ukrainian colleagues within the British racing industry.

"An initial assessment around Russian investment in British racing is being carried out, working with partners across the racing and bloodstock industry, though initial indications suggest that such investment is extremely limited.”

The Jockey Club has lent its support to the Red Cross appeal to support those affected by the invasion.

In an email to staff, chief executive Nevin Truesdale said: "While I recognise The Jockey Club has no activities in either Russia or Ukraine or race sponsors from either country, clearly this is a developing humanitarian crisis.

"A number of charities have launched Ukraine crisis appeals. One such appeal is from the British Red Cross. They are fundraising to support people impacted and displaced by the invasion with things including food, water, first aid, medicines, warm clothes and shelter through the Ukrainian and international arms of the charity.

"We will be supporting this appeal by making a donation as The Jockey Club. We will also promote the appeal across The Jockey Club's venues, inviting racegoers to donate should they wish to (via promotions on big screens, in our racecards and over our PA systems).

"If any of you are someone affected by this crisis, such as having relatives or friends at risk in the conflict, please don’t forget that Racing Welfare's support services are available to help should you wish to use them."

Nevin Truesdale: 'Clearly this is a developing humanitarian crisis'

The Racing Post understands that a number of major sports organisations have contacted The Jockey Club to enquire about details to follow suit in supporting the Red Cross Ukraine Appeal.

Racecourse Association chief executive David Armstrong represented racing at a government briefing on Monday, when figures from a wide range of sports were updated on the latest situation by Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries.

More to read:

'We stand with them' - horse carries Ukraine-coloured silks in anti-war protest

Newmarket head lad speaks of his anguish following Russian invasion of Ukraine

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