The governing bodies British, Irish and Japanese horse racing industries are forming an alliance called the Joint Cooperation Committee, aimed at addressing their shared challenges in the age of online gambling. Included in the group are the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), Horse Racing Ireland, and the Japan Racing Association (JRA).
Horse racing across the globe has seen a major slump over the past few decades and one of the purposes of the Joint Cooperation Committee is helping promote the industry as a whole. On a more meta-level, the Committee is focusing specifically on creating a trans-continental flow of players and interest between the three countries and their horse racing fans.
Horse trainer Aidan O’Brien explained the value of creating transcontinental ties with the Japanese racing industry in a recent press release saying, “When it comes to passion for, and knowledge of, horse racing, it is tough to rival the Japanese, from the fans to the racing operations and bloodstock businesses. Their increased international participation and success has only fuelled more interest and investment. This initiative is an excellent idea in strengthening the ties between the Japanese and Irish and British industries.”
Suzanne Eade, CEO of Horse Racing Ireland, was similarly enthusiastic adding, “Ties between the three countries have never been stronger with Japanese-trained and bred runners being represented in the top Pattern races in Britain and Ireland. Ireland looks forward to being a full and active partner with Britain and Japan in the Joint Cooperation Committee to share our collective wisdom and progress our shared objectives of increasing participation and engagement.”