VisitEngland Launches First Quality Scheme for Horse Racing
VisitEngland, the country’s national tourist board has set up the first quality scheme in the country for sport. The VisitEngland Quality Assured Racecourse Scheme assessed 55 racecourses in 2010. Horse racing is the first sport to be quality assessed in this way.
Broadening the Appeal of Horse Racing in England
In partnership with Racing for Change, the organization charged with broadening the appeal of horse racing, VisitEngland sent independent assessors to race courses around the country. Areas assessed included pre-arrival information, the website, horse racing vacation planning, signage, welcome on arrival and the actual sporting event. Having completed a full assessment, race courses were awarded a VisitEngland plaque illustrated by the organization’s red rose logo.
Enjoy Horse Racing at Goodwood Races
While enjoying a day at Goodwood races, Lady Cobham, Chairman VisitEngland said, “We know 59 per cent of Brits feel they don’t make the best use of their time. A day at the races is just one of the many wonderful sporting experiences on offer in England that can be enjoyed not only by dedicated fans of the sport but by anyone looking for a thrilling day out.”
London to Host 2012 Olympics and Equestrian Events
In addition to hosting the London 2012 Olympic & Paralympic Games, England is set to enjoy a decade of sport with major sporting championships on the horizon, including equestrian events.
We Want to Make Horse Racing a Family-friendly Outing
Jon Williams of Racing for Change said, ‘’ We want to make race going an experience to be enjoyed by all racegoers including families, who may not have previously considered a day at the races as a family friendly outing. The VisitEngland Quality Assured plaque will act as a stamp of approval showing visitors that a day’s racing is a quality experience and great value for money.”
Top jockey, Frankie Dettori, commented ‘’This is a brilliant idea. Anything that encourages more people to come racing has to be good for the sport. We have some of the best racing in the world, 52 weeks a year, so why not come and see me in action!’’
What are your favorite things to do on a horseback riding vacation to London, England?
Photo provided by Visit England courtesy of Dan Abraham – racingfotos.com Newmarket 18.10.08
What an interesting idea. Never occurred to me to go to England to do the races. Next question–do I have to wear one of those big hats?
@VeraMarie
Big hats seem to be all the rage in England at horse races and polo matches. Not sure what they were to a fox hunt!