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ROA Gold Standard for Racecourses

Fakenham Racecourse being awarded the Gold Standard by Vice President, Rachel Hood (22 October, 2010). 

There are 17 current racecourses that are holders of the ROA Gold Standard.

They are: Ascot, Ayr, Chester, Doncaster, Epsom Downs, Fakenham, Goodwood, Hamilton Park, Haydock Park, Musselburgh, Newbury, Newmarket July Course, Newmarket Rowley Mile, Pontefract, Sandown Park, Wincanton, York 

The ROA Gold Standard Award for racecourses was established in 2006 to recognise excellence in the raceday experience for owners, their horses and stable staff. 

Overseen by the Gold Standard Committee, awards are granted for a
12-month period and are subject to annual review to ensure that the requirements continue to be met.

The process begins with a minimum 15% requirement for the executive and sponsorship contribution to prize-money. The applicant racecourse then undergoes a Mystery Owner visit, after which detailed feedback is given, which usually results in a substantial process of dialogue. Once the Committee is satisfied that all aspects are met, a recommendation is made to the ROA Council and if this is agreed, the award presentation is then made.

The ROA presented Musselburgh Racecourse with the Gold Standard Award on Friday, 20 May 2011. Images of the presentation can be viewed in a dedicated gallery. The images feature ROA Council member, Steven Astaire, presenting the award to the racecourse's General Manager Bill Farnsworth.

A copy of the criteria questionnaire appears here:

  Gold Standard Questionnaire