In an exciting development for the horseracing industry, the Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) has elected seasoned professional in the betting sector Simon Clare. Clare brings with him a wealth of experience, having served for many years in key positions with notable bookmakers Ladbrokes and Coral. Clare, currently the Customer Communications Director for Entain’s UK brands, will have a significant impact in his new role at the HBLB.
The role of the Horserace Betting Levy Board
The Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) plays a crucial role in supporting British horseracing. Its primary responsibility is to collect a statutory levy from bookmakers based on their profits from horseracing bets. Then, the HBLB allocates the levy proceeds back into the industry to finance key areas such as breeding programs, advancements in veterinary science, and general improvements to the sport. Over the years, the levy has become an indispensable financial resource for the industry, ensuring the sport’s sustainability and growth.
A recent report published in May projects that the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) will make a record-breaking contribution of ￡105 million ($137.4 million) in levy payments to the HBLB for the previous fiscal year. This significant contribution marks a ￡5 million increase from the previous year. It also reflects the third consecutive year of rising levy contributions, underscoring the importance of the betting sector to the sport’s financial health.
Grainne Hurst welcomes Simon Clare to the HBLB
BGC CEO, Grainne Hurst, highlighted the positive impact of these contributions, praising the continued support of its members. She also expressed her delight at Clare’s appointment to the HBLB, noting that his extensive experience would be a key asset in ensuring the continued success of the levy system.
Speaking about Clare’s appointment, Grainne Hurst said, “We’re delighted Simon is joining the HBLB. He brings an unrivalled wealth of experience from his many years with Ladbrokes and Coral, where he has become respected as a vocal and passionate champion of the sport. His wisdom and knowledge will be crucial assets to the HBLB over the coming years.”
Hurst also paid tribute to Clare’s predecessor, Mike O’Kane, acknowledging his invaluable contributions during his tenure on the HBLB. She emphasised the ‘strong voice’ O’Kane brought to the Board, especially during a time of significant change for the racing industry and increasing levy contributions. Hurst added, “We wish Mike well in the future and are delighted to welcome Simon to the HBLB.”
Simon Clare’s perspective
Upon his appointment, Simon Clare expressed his gratitude and excitement for the new role. He said, “I am extremely honoured to be joining the Horserace Betting Levy Board as the betting representative. Mike O’Kane will be a hard act to follow, and I would like to thank him for the great contribution he has made in his time in the role.”
Clare’s background in the betting industry spans several decades. He is not only a seasoned industry expert but also a lifelong enthusiast of horseracing and other major sports. This dual perspective, of both professional involvement and personal passion, makes Clare ideally suited to contribute meaningfully to the work of the HBLB.
Clare added, “I have been fortunate to have enjoyed a long and varied career within the betting industry with Coral, now Entain, alongside a lifelong passion for horseracing and all major sports, so will hopefully be able to make a valuable contribution to the Board.”
Clare’s appointment comes at a critical juncture for the HBLB. As levy contributions reach new heights, the Board will play a pivotal role in ensuring that this funding is used to drive forward important initiatives within the sport. Simon Clare’s appointment represents a key step in further strengthening the relationship between the betting industry and horseracing. With this new chapter beginning, the future looks bright for both the HBLB and British horseracing.
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