Wilf Walsh Appointed RCA Chairman
The RCA is delighted to announce the appointment of Wilf Walsh as its new Chairman with effect from 1st October 2021.
Wilf has been a leading figure in the bookmaking sector including a very successful period as Managing Director of Coral and as non-executive Director of the Gala Coral Group. He is also Chair of Nestware Holdings, Europe’s largest flooring group. He was a non-executive director at the Racing Authority during its formative stage in 2018. Wilf is a shareholder in bloodstock businesses and an owner of several horses in training. He also brings a wide range of other non-executive and Chair level experience to the table.
Charles Barnett – Vice Chair of the RCA said: “I am delighted to welcome Wilf to the RCA. We conducted an extensive search process which identified a very strong pool of candidates from within and outside Racing. The Board felt that Wilf brought all of the qualities the RCA was looking for at such a pivotal time for the sport as we continue the recovery from the Covid pandemic. I worked closely with Wilf during the creation of the Racing Authority and very much look forward to renewing our working relationship. On behalf of all at the RCA and racecourses, I would like to thank Maggie Carver for her dedication, support and invaluable contributions via her Chairmanships of both the RCA and RaceTech”
Wilf Walsh said: “It is a genuine privilege to take up this role following Maggie Carver’s very successful tenure as RCA Chair. I look forward to working with CEO David Armstrong and the team as we help racecourses navigate their way to sustainable profitability, post-pandemic and to a positive dialogue with all racing’s constituents in maximising income and increasing the popularity of our sport”.
Maggie Carver – Outgoing Chair of the RCA said: “Congratulations to the RCA and to Wilf on this excellent appointment. Wilf’s background in bookmaking will be a great asset to the industry. It has been a delight and an honour to represent racecourses for the last six years and I would like to wish them every success in the future. I would also like to thank all staff and the Boards at the RCA and at Racetech for their dedicated service, particularly over the pandemic.”
