New UK-wide role for Musselburgh chief Bill Farnsworth

Published on Tuesday 27 July 2010 19:09

MUSSELBURGH Racecourse chief Bill Farnsworth has been appointed to the board of UK racing's governing body, the British Horseracing Authority, but will combine the roles as he bids to build on the success of the East Lothian track.

The three-year appointment, effective from 1 August, is an acknowledgement of the work carried out by Farnsworth and his team in transforming Musselburgh into one of the country's leading small racecourses.

Nominated to the eight-man board by the Racecourse Association, Farnsworth said his priority would be to tackle the thorny issue of racecourse funding. "I am joining the BHA board at a very challenging time for British racing. The funding of our racing industry, from the betting industry, has plunged to an all time low through the Levy and racing is facing a financial crisis in 2011. As well as promoting the wellbeing of our sport, my main objective is to try to help the BHA come up with a solution which ensures adequate financing of the racing industry and safeguards its future."

Musselburgh chairman John Prideaux said the appointment was a reflection of Farnsworth's personal reputation and of the work carried out at the East Lothian course during his 11-year tenure.

"We are delighted that he will be remaining in charge at Musselburgh and at the same time regard his appointment as a favourable reflection on the standing of the course within the sport as a whole," said Prideaux.

Meanwhile, Dermot Weld's Majestic Concorde features among a maximum field of 22 runners for today's www.thetote.com Galway Plate. The Rosewell House handler is well known for his exploits at the Ballybrit Festival and among his previous winners of this feature event was the popular Ansar, who won the race in 2004 and 2005.

Majestic Concorde is twice a winner over fences and was last seen finishing fourth on the Flat in the Chester Cup. Weld has an interesting second string to his bow in the shape of Bobs Pride, while champion trainer Willie Mullins also has a strong hand with Deutschland and Themoonandsixpence taking their chance. British champion Paul Nicholls saddled Oslot to win the race in 2008 and this year's representative is Five Dream.

Another making the journey from England is Nigel Twiston-Davies' recent Market Rasen winner Grand Slam Hero.