Findings from the field - April

What a first month it’s been!

I’ve loved getting my feet under the table, as well as being out and about meeting ROA members on racecourses, and I can’t wait to get stuck into the challenges ahead while continuing the fantastic work already underway at the ROA.

Since starting on 1st April, I’ve been working closely with Louise Norman and the brilliant team here to get settled in and gain a clearer picture of everything that goes on behind the scenes.

Before joining, Louise and I spoke about the idea of launching a monthly blog. Don’t worry, this won’t be a dry list of what I’ve been up to. Instead, it’s a chance to share some insights, stories and themes that have come from meeting ROA members and owners on course.

Each blog will also explore a theme. This month’s theme is presence. It’s something that perhaps hasn’t always been as strong as it could be, and we believe it’s vital that members feel they can easily reach us, share their thoughts, and know we’re here on their behalf.

But first, a quick introduction. I’m Bobby Burns, the new Head of Business Development at the ROA.

After studying politics at university, both undergrad and postgrad, I worked in press offices at Amazon and Deliveroo. But I soon realised my heart lay in sport. That led me to Fitzdares, where I spent five brilliant years and discovered my passion for racing.

Now, I’m thrilled to be starting this next chapter with the ROA,  a role that gives real purpose to my passion. I’m fully committed to this amazing sport and to doing what I can to support and improve it for owners.

Outside work, I also run a small syndicate called Cotswolds Racing. Our first horse, Smile John Boy, is currently enjoying his summer break from training with Ben Pauling, and we hope to see him make his debut under rules this autumn.

A big part of my role involves travelling the length and breadth of Britain to meet as many members and owners as possible. Which brings me back to presence. One thing that’s already stood out is how much our members value seeing someone from the ROA on course, someone who’s there to listen, engage, and represent them.

In just the last couple of weeks, I’ve visited several racecourses across the North and Scotland, with plenty more to come. You can see where I’ll be next via our new landing page [insert link], where you can also book a time to meet me. I’ll also be popping up in the Inside Track email.

I’m really looking forward to meeting more of you soon. If you see me on course, please do come and say hello, I’m keen to hear your views, and my door is always open.

Keep an eye out for this blog each month. We’re going to have some fun with it and more importantly we’ll use it to shine a light on the issues that matter most to you – the owner.