British Horseracing Authority and Great British Racing Launch Comprehensive HorsePWR Campaign to Enhance Public Engagement and Confidence in Equine Welfare
The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and Great British Racing (GBR) have announced the launch of an extensive public-facing welfare campaign, HorsePWR, aimed at increasing public engagement and reinforcing confidence in British racing's high welfare standards. This significant initiative, funded by the Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB), represents one of the most substantial investments in promoting horse welfare directly to the public.
Expanding HorsePWR's Reach
Initially launched in April 2024, HorsePWR is built on principles of openness and transparency, showcasing the beauty and character of Thoroughbred racehorses. The current phase, running from February 24 to April 6, 2025, aims to broaden its audience through high-profile advertising across print, online, and social media platforms. Targeted advertisements will appear in iconic locations in London, Bristol, Birmingham, and Liverpool, coinciding with major Jump racing festivals to maximize impact.
Comprehensive Campaign Strategy
The campaign's strategy includes:
- Outdoor Advertising: Prominent displays in locations such as London Old Street Showcase, Liverpool Barratt House, Bristol Lights and Towers, and Birmingham Chinatown and Towers.
- Transport Advertising: Bus advertisements in Bristol, London, and Liverpool to reach commuters and city dwellers.
- Print Media: Half-page advertisements in national newspapers, including The Times, The Mirror, and The Sun, to engage a diverse readership.
- Digital Presence: Targeted online advertisements and a robust social media campaign across Facebook and Instagram to foster online engagement.
Reinforcing Commitment to Equine Welfare
HorsePWR serves as a central resource for welfare information, addressing public concerns by providing clear and comprehensive facts about the lives of racehorses and the high standards upheld within British racing. The campaign's website, www.horsepwr.co.uk, offers in-depth insights into the sport's welfare practices, aiming to educate and reassure the public.
Robin Mounsey, Head of Communications at the BHA, said:
“This campaign marks a significant moment for British racing. For the first time in recent memory, the sport is making a major investment in promoting its welfare message directly to the wider public. It is a demonstration of our confidence in the high standards of welfare within British racing and our commitment to ensuring that the public is better informed about them.”
Gabi Whitfield, Head of Welfare Communications at GBR, added:
“Equine welfare is both a topic of general interest and a barrier to engagement for sections of the public. We want to make sure that British racing provides the facts in a clear, credible, and visually engaging way. HorsePWR is about driving trust, combatting misinformation, and showing racing’s commitment to the wellbeing of the Thoroughbred from birth through to retirement. We are extremely grateful to the Horserace Betting Levy Board for funding the latest phase of this campaign.”
This initiative reflects British racing's dedication to maintaining and promoting exemplary welfare standards, ensuring that the well-being of Thoroughbred racehorses remains at the forefront of the sport.
For more information on the HorsePWR campaign and British racing's welfare standards, visit www.horsepwr.co.uk.
