Gavin enters Wayne’s world
Jack Milner
General News
4Racing Responds to Susan Rowett's Open Letter
As CEO of 4Racing, I wish to respond publicly to Susan Rowett’s open letter to the racing industry dated 1 November 2025. Following my appointment in June this year, two issues became immediately apparent: widespread stakeholder dissatisfaction with the performance of the National Horseracing Authority over the past few years and a concerning increased level of fragmentation amongst stakeholders within the horse racing industry. The reality is that our industry has experienced substantial decline over the past decade. As an operator responsible for putting on the show, our revenues are directly tied to the health and performance of South African horseracing. This includes the obligation to fund the NHA’s budget, which, unlike the sport itself, has increased disproportionately year after year. Recent missteps by the NHA have undermined efforts to revive the industry. To strengthen the NHA and ensure it operates in alignment with the interests of the industry, we must adopt a new constitution that enables constructive stakeholder participation whilst preserving full regulatory oversight by the NHA Board. To be clear, the latter being non-negotiable. Contrary to the defamatory and misleading narrative in Ms. Rowett’s letter, the proposed constitution is the product of a collaborative process involving representatives from owners, breeders, operators, trainers, jockeys and the NHA Board itself. It reflects thoughtful debate, negotiated compromises and a shared commitment to ensuring no single stakeholder dominates the NHA. The rationale for each substantive change is clearly outlined in the explanatory memorandum accompanying the notice and the proposed constitution. To clarify some of the inaccuracies in Ms. Rowett’s assertions: Her claim that the Nomination Committee (NomCo) consists solely of two operator appointees and one trainer appointee, excluding owners, is incorrect. NomCo also includes two individuals appointed by the Board, one of whom must be an owner. Additionally, the proposed constitution requires that at least four and up to six directors of the NHA be members in good standing (excluding trainers, assistant trainers, stable employees, jockeys, and apprentice jockeys).
54 names in Grand Heritage hat
The World Sports Betting Grand Heritage has been described as somewhat of a cavalry charge, and with good reason.
Shader can have winning effect
The lightly-raced Shader is well worth a shot at Listed level in the Unibet Floodlit Stakes at Kempton on Monday.
Handstands can make winning return at Carlisle
Handstands can spring into action to take the Colin Parker Memorial
The Real Whacker on track for Charlie Hall back-to-back
The Real Whacker is expected to put up a staunch defence of his crown in the bet365 Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby on ...
Resources
Download Computaform