Handicapping Appeals Process

The BHA have issued a statement outlining a change to the process relating to the review of a horse's handicap mark.

The ROA recognises, as does the BHA, the benefits of owners having a direct line of contact with the relevant handicapper. The ROA continues to work on behalf of owners with the BHA Handicapping team and reinforce the owners’ right to engage with the handicapper. The new process outlined today clarifies what will now be a three-step process where there is a requirement to formally ask for a handicap mark to be reviewed.

The new third stage has been introduced to further enhance and improve the process. An independent Handicapping Ombudsman has been appointed to oversee the review process, should any concern fail to be resolved during the initial stages.

Owners should welcome this additional stage in the process, as it promotes greater transparency, fairness and impartiality, whilst the emphasis on verbal evidence will expedite the decision-making process.

The independent Handicapping Ombudsman will replace the Handicapping Appeals Panel.

Further details are available on the BHA website.

Should you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact one of the team [email protected]

 

Appeals process