A racing secretary is a role that involves administrative and organisational responsibilities within the horse racing industry.
The job involves a wide range of logistical responsibilities aimed at ensuring a smooth and efficient operation.
Role and Responsibilities:
Race Scheduling
The racing secretary is responsible for planning and scheduling horse races at a particular racecourse or racing organisation. They work with various stakeholders, including trainers, owners, and track officials, to set race dates and compile race programs.
Entry Management
Racing secretaries receive and manage race entries from horse trainers and owners. They ensure that all necessary paperwork is completed, including registration and licensing requirements, and they coordinate with the relevant racing authorities.
Race Conditions
Racing secretaries establish the conditions for each race, including factors like distance, surface type, age restrictions, and purse amounts. They communicate these conditions to participants and ensure they are met.
Field Selection
In consultation with handicappers and stewards, racing secretaries select the final field of horses for each race. This involves considering factors like the horses' past performances and handicaps to create competitive races.
Jockey Assignments
They will also coordinate with jockeys and their agents to assign riders to specific horses in each race. This involves considering jockeys' availability, contracts, and racing schedules.
Race Day Logistics
On race days, the racing secretary plays a pivotal role in overseeing the logistical aspects of the event. They ensure that all participants, including horses, jockeys, and trainers, are properly registered and have the necessary credentials.
Handling Changes
Racing secretaries handle any last-minute changes, or substitutions that may occur leading up to a race. They communicate these changes to all relevant parties, including the public.
Communication
They serve as a point of contact for trainers, owners, and other stakeholders, addressing inquiries and providing information related to races and race conditions.
Documentation
Racing secretaries maintain detailed records of race entries, conditions, and results. This documentation is crucial for regulatory compliance and historical reference.
Regulatory Compliance
They also ensure that all racing activities adhere to regulatory rules and guidelines set by racing authorities, such as the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) in the UK.
Post-Race Reporting
Once the races finish, racing secretaries compile and report results to the relevant authorities, including stewards and handicappers.
Race Program Publication
They oversee the preparation and publication of race programs and race cards, which provide essential information to racegoers.
Financial Management
Racing secretaries may also be responsible for managing the finances related to race entries, purse payments, and fees.
Stakeholder Relations
They foster positive relationships with trainers, owners, jockeys, and other industry professionals to ensure a cooperative and successful racing environment.
Overall, the role of a horse racing secretary is essential for the effective and organised conduct of horse racing events. They work behind the scenes to coordinate all aspects of racing, from scheduling to race day logistics, while maintaining compliance with industry regulations and fostering positive relationships within the racing community.
To become a racing secretary what would be required?
Interest in Horse Racing
An inherent interest and enthusiasm for horse racing is crucial. A horse racing secretary will be working closely with racehorses, trainers, jockeys, and other industry professionals, so a genuine love for the sport is important.
Strong Organisational Skills
This role requires excellent organisational skills to manage race schedules, paperwork, and various administrative tasks efficiently. Attention to detail is crucial to ensure that all racing events run smoothly.
Administrative Competence
Proficiency in administrative tasks, such as record-keeping, data entry, and communication, is essential.
Communication Skills
Effective communication is important to liaise with trainers, jockeys, owners, and regulatory bodies. Clear and concise communication can help resolve issues and ensure smooth operations.
Adaptability
The horse racing industry can be fast-paced and dynamic. Being able to adapt to changing circumstances and unexpected situations is important for success in this role.
Knowledge of Regulations
A horse racing secretary should have a good understanding of the rules and regulations governing horse racing. This knowledge is necessary to ensure compliance and fairness in the sport.
Problem-Solving Abilities
The ability to think on one's feet and solve problems is valuable. Issues can arise on race days, and the secretary may need to find quick and effective solutions.
Patience and Resilience
Dealing with various stakeholders in the horse racing industry can be challenging. Patience and resilience are essential to handle the pressures and occasional conflicts that may arise.
Flexibility
Horse racing events occur on weekends, holidays, as well as evenings. Being willing to work non-traditional hours is typically a requirement for this role.
Team Player
Collaboration is important in the horse racing industry. A secretary should work well with trainers, jockeys, race organisers, and other team members to ensure the success of racing events.
Overall, someone who enjoys the excitement of horse racing possesses strong organisational and administrative skills and can adapt to the unique demands of the industry would likely find satisfaction as a horse racing secretary.
Working as a racing secretary means being a part of a trainer's team, where you handle the essential administrative tasks that keep a racing stable running smoothly. However, it's important to note that the specific duties and structure of this role can differ from one racing stable to another. In larger stables, it's not uncommon to have a few people working in this role.
Does this sound like the ideal job for you?
You can enrol yourself on a three-day course with The British Racing School.
Add your CV and let TallyHo Talent match you with an employer.
Contact office@TallyHotalent.com to discuss.