Horse industry can help put others on track

British equestrian know-how is steeped in hundreds of years of history

The modern sport of horseracing had its beginnings in Britain more than 400 years ago when the first thoroughbreds were produced in this country. Since then, Britain has remained at the forefront of the sport, leading the way in regulation, standards, veterinary expertise and innovation in the development of the racing and breeding industry.

Racing in Britain has a long and colorful history; the sport has developed from humble beginnings when the first recorded horserace took place at Smithfield in London in 1174 to its current position as the second-most watched sport in Britain and a world leader in racing.

Often referred to as the sport of kings, racing in Britain has enjoyed a long and happy relationship with ruling monarchs, from Queen Anne who founded the world-famous Royal Ascot meeting in 1711 to the current Queen Elizabeth II who is a hugely successful owner and breeder.

History and tradition go hand in hand with glamor and luxury in British racing, with monarchs, sheikhs and sports stars enjoying the sport alongside the British public.

As a center of excellence for horseracing, Britain has much to offer in expertise to help in developing all areas of the burgeoning sport in China.

Britain is home to three thoroughbred auction houses, the oldest of which, Tattersalls, has been selling racehorses since 1766 and is Europe's premier sales house. It is little wonder then that Britain sells more horses than any other country in Europe, offering some of the best pedigrees and performers to buyers from around the world at prices that cater to all budgets.

Training the next generation is just as important with people in racing as with horses, and Britain is home to two training schools for future jockeys and stable staff. The British Racing School in Newmarket and the Northern Racing College near Doncaster have both produced a succession of champion jockeys as well as training stable staff to the highest caliber, and also offer training in racing administration as well for secretaries and trainers.

The British Horseracing Authority is the governing body of British racing, and as well as regulating the sport in Britain, the authority is regularly called upon to lend its expertise in other jurisdictions.

The General Stud Book is an invaluable tool, recording the pedigree of each and every registered thoroughbred foaled in Britain and Ireland. The book was first published in 1793 by James Weatherby, and the Weatherby family still own the firm today, producing a book every four years. The British General Stud Book formed the basis for every other stud book around the world today, and still leads the way, centuries later.

Racing may be a sport with deep roots in the past but it is a constantly evolving sport, and Britain is at the leading edge of the veterinary research that is helping to improve the sport, making it safer for competitors and investors alike.

While British racing has great knowledge and expertise to share with other countries, what better place to become involved with the sport than in its birthplace?

Racing in Britain has attracted numerous top-level investors from all over the world over the years, headed by royal families and leading business figures, sports people and entrepreneurs from North America, Japan, Australia, South Africa, India and South America.

For anyone seeking to become involved in racing as an owner or breeder, or even just to learn more about the sport and enjoy a day at one of Britain's picturesque racecourses, Great British Racing International can assist.

It is on hand to facilitate anyone wanting to visit the country to enjoy racing, and can help in planning a day at the races, a visit to the sales or in becoming an owner in Britain.

The organization is also available to facilitate introductions and meetings with personnel in all aspects of the British racing and breeding industry, such as the British Horseracing Authority, racecourses, veterinarians, farriers and trainers who would all be willing to lend their expertise to help in developing the sport in China.

British racing is a rich tapestry, blending prestige and tradition in a world-class leisure activity and investment opportunity. Whether by offering its expertise to emerging markets such as China or by inviting others to take part in the sport in Britain, British racing has a huge amount to offer the sport worldwide.

The author is the International Executive of the industry association Great British Racing International. The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

(China Daily Africa Weekly 10/03/2014 page12)