ROA Annual General Meeting held

• President Charlie Parker calls for Levy Reform
• New Owner Services project launched

The Racehorse Owners Association (ROA) concluded its 80th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Thursday, 26th September 2024, at The Queen’s Club, London. ROA members gathered to discuss the future of British racing and pose questions to the ROA Board and Executives regarding the progress made over the past year. All three resolutions proposed to members were approved.

In his speech, President Charlie Parker highlighted the importance of a new Levy deal, stating “It is crucial that the much discussed and documented Levy reform is put back on the political agenda as soon as possible.”

 “The BHA and the industry group must deliver a revised deal quickly or we risk seeing real impacts upon prize money and an inability to make any progress.”

Despite the industry headwinds of affordability checks and Levy Reform, the ROA is showing signs of membership stabilising, and Parker announced the launch of the new Owner Services project, ensuring that the owner as the key participant in the sport is understood and appreciated at all levels.

This agreed working partnership with the BHA and industry stakeholders, aims to recognise and reward the investment made by all owners into the sport. Led by the ROA, it will focus initially on racehorse owners’ data and insights to ensure their experience meets their needs and expectations, making the sport more rewarding and aspirational. 

Charlie Parker noted “This new collaboration will allow the team to work closely with racecourses to really begin to deliver enhanced race day experiences and the recognition that owners should receive, given their investment and commitment to the sport.”
All three resolutions put to the membership were carried:

• Adoption of the Annual Report and Financial Statements: Members confirmed and adopted the ROA's Report and Financial Statements for the year ending 31st March 2024.
• Appointment of Auditors: RSM UK Audit LLP was appointed as the ROA's auditors for the upcoming year, ensuring continued financial transparency and accountability.
• Approval of New Articles of Association: Members approved the adoption of updated Articles of Association, reflecting the evolving needs of the organisation and the industry.