Only two years after an industry summit apparently settled all debate on the parameters of racing seasons, trainers have proposed a radical change to the way the Flat championships are decided. If they have their way, the season - presently confined between March and November - will stretch for 12 months, ending with the November Handicap at Doncaster and starting again the following day.

Mark Johnston, a vocal proponent of such change, welcomed the possibility but various obstacles have to be cleared first, not least the likelihood of alternative proposals from jockeys and owners. The British Horseracing Authority says it is open to change if all parties can reach common ground and is set to ask the Horseman’s Group to adjudicate.

Rupert Arnold, chief executive of the National Trainers’ Federation (NTF), admits that the matter is “politically sensitive”. He explains: “I know everyone put a lot of work into the industry summit but there has been a change of heart among trainers. Many felt they were being effectively discouraged from having runners on the all-weather if the winners did not count towards the titles.

“The option of a calendar year championship was considered but a season ending on December 31 would be difficult to promote. It was also felt that if jumping could successfully end and start seasons in April, then why could the Flat not do it in November?”

Josh Apiafi, chief executive of the Professional Jockeys’ Association (PJA), has balloted his members on the issue. “We’ll have the results shortly. I can understand the trainers’ point of view but we have to take account of welfare issues relating to a 12-month season.”
(Source: The Times)