Your 2023 Showcase Finalists: Diversity & Inclusion

Introduced in 2019, the Diversity & Inclusion award celebrates initiatives which open the sport to all and promote racecourses as accessible, welcoming venues.

Chelmsford City – Autism in Racing Raceday 

Chelmsford City’s third Autism in Racing raceday was its biggest yet as the racecourse strives to ensure horseracing is viewed as an accessible day out for all families.

Setting this apart from other Autism in Racing days, the Chelmsford team introduced two additional Autism-friendly areas and private entry and exit times. Prime viewing spots by the Parade Ring meant each beneficiary could truly engage with our equine stars.

Autism in Racing Raceday at Chelmsford City Racecourse

Doncaster – Your Future, Your Choice

Acknowledging the difficult local conditions surrounding recruitment and the lack of support for people living with autism, Doncaster took the positive step to link with a local Special Education Needs college to offer work placements to students.

The intake is due to be trebled in 2024 such was the success, and a branded hospitality box has helped spread the word to hundreds more businesses in the local area.

Your Future, Your Choice at Doncaster Racecourse

Newbury – Community Raceday

Embracing the richly diverse cultural surroundings of the racecourse, Newbury’s community raceday was a celebration of all areas of local life and a welcome to racing for those who had not yet experienced it.

Authentic music, poetry and dance from a global background plus a sensory space for those who required it showed Newbury as a destination in touch with its neighbours, which post-event feedback more than agreed with.

Community Raceday at Newbury Racecourse

Perth – Pride Raceday

British racing’s first-ever headline-billed Pride Raceday took place at Perth, and what a day it was for all involved.

Perth’s team worked closely with Perthshire Pride to ensure the racecourse was the focal point of local Pride celebrations. This was a busy Saturday raceday filled with the vibrancy and joy of Pride alongside the fun and excitement of jump racing—a dazzling combination.

Pride Raceday at Perth Racecourse

Pontefract – Through the Eyes of Others

Following an audit of the racecourse to review accessibility, it was clear to the Pontefract team that remedial work would be required if the racecourse was genuinely going to be accessible to all.

Embracing this challenge, Pontefract implemented a plan with the aspiration of being seen as best practice within the local area. New accessible viewing areas, designated access hubs and an increase in step-free access points are just some of the positive changes already made.

Through the Eyes of Others at Pontefract Racecourse