Mr Sykes joins the BHA from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) where he was head veterinary officer for both the Emirates Racing Authority.

Role reflects importance of equine welfare to British racing

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has named David Sykes as its new director of equine health and welfare.

Mr Sykes joins the BHA from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) where he was head veterinary officer for both the Emirates Racing Authority and the UAE Equine Quarantine Department.

In this newly-created role, David will be responsible for enhancing the leadership and capability of the BHA’s equine health and welfare function; improving the capture, analysis and benchmarking of racehorse welfare information; and continuing to develop the BHA’s equine welfare strategy.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr Sykes said: “I regard British racing to be unique in its quality and diversity and the BHA as a world leader in equine health and welfare issues. I look forward to immersing myself in this position and, in consultation with the industry, further developing whole-of-life racehorse welfare strategies”.

The BHA says that the creation of the new Director of Equine Health and Welfare role ‘reflects the fact that equine welfare is a strategic priority for the BHA’.

“We’re excited to have someone of David’s proven veterinary and regulatory experience joining the organisation at a time when we have made it clear that equine welfare leadership is our top priority,” said Jamie Stier, chief regulatory officer for the BHA.

“David was the outstanding candidate from an exceptionally strong field of applications for what is an exciting role in a position of global importance in the world of racing."

Image (C) British Horseracing Authority