Rupert Arnold to step down after 21 years leading trainers' representative body

Rupert Arnold, a prominent figure in British racing's leadership for more than two decades, is to step down from his role as chief executive of the National Trainers Federation (NTF) at the end of the year.

He said he felt it was time for a fresh figure to take the NTF forward, although he added he would continue to do some consultancy work for the organisation.

Arnold, 61, has led the NTF since August 2000 during which time he has also been a director of the BHB and its successor the BHA, the Horsemen’s Group and the British Horseracing Education and Standards Trust.

He had previously been a trainer for six years based in Upper Lambourn, having also been assistant to Jeremy Hindley, John Winter and Paul Cole.

Arnold said: "I have been in the role a long time and I think it's a good time for someone fresh in the role to take the NTF forward.

"The role has expanded a lot, we've always tried to push forward and do new things to do what we can to support trainers. It's one of those roles where there is always something new you can do but at some point it's time for somebody else to lead.

"There's almost never a right time so it's more what feels right personally and what feels right for the organisation."

Arnold expressed his gratitude to the NTF's membership and to those trainers who have held the position of NTF president.

"Although it brings many challenges, nothing can surpass the range of experiences in this role," he said.

"Most importantly, I want to thank the NTF executive team. We work so closely together and each one of them is incredibly dedicated to helping the membership; the service they provide is second to none."

Arnold said he hoped to continue serving the sport in some capacity.

He said: "From the turn of the year I will still be involved a little bit with the NTF and obviously looking for other ways to contribute to the sport which has been my life for 40 years. Hopefully there will be something I can get involved with."

Emma Lavelle: 'Rupert has helped us meet a range of challenges'Credit: Edward Whitaker

The current NTF president Emma Lavelle said the body was "enormously grateful" for the work Arnold had done on behalf of trainers.

She added: "He has helped us meet a range of challenges both at home and within the wider racing industry and has worked tirelessly in the process."

Also paying tribute was BHA chief executive Julie Harrington. She said: "He has always been a persuasive advocate on behalf of his members and approaches conversations with both principle and pragmatism, something that I experienced first-hand both during our time together on the BHA board as well as in our current roles."

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