HBLBs Vital Support of GBB Scheme Continues to Drive British Breeding Excellence

Wander around the yearling sales, and it's impossible to miss the distinctive red diamonds sported by British-bred fillies, signifying their registration status with the Great British Bonus (GBB). These sought-after fillies command the attention of agents, trainers, and owners, all eager to take advantage of the lucrative scheme. GBB is often described as a shining light and game-changing, and the data certainly supports these testimonies however, what isnt always as evident is just who is behind this lucrative incentive scheme.

Many recognise GBB as the brainchild of the Thoroughbred Breeders Association (TBA) who are active in championing and promoting its cause, however the other major partner in this success story for British racing is the Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB), the scheme's main funder. Since its launch in June 2020 through to 31st August 2024, GBB has paid out nearly £16.5 million in bonuses, with HBLB providing £14 million of this. They also support the scheme's administration and marketing efforts, ensuring the GBB remains at the forefront of British breeding.

HBLB's role is absolutely crucial in underpinning the continued success of GBB; it is tasked with the complex responsibility of distributing levy funds into prize money whilst striving to meet its statutory objectives which include the improvement of the breed and the advancement of horse racing objectives that align perfectly with the mission of the GBB.

The impact of the GBB is evident in the recent results from the Goffs Premier Sale in Doncaster. GBB fillies made up 13% of the yearlings sold and represented 15% of the turnover. The average value of a GBB filly increased to £44,627, compared to £37,469 last year, while the median value rose to £33,000 from £30,500. These figures underscore the importance of GBB to the health of the British breeding industry and the enhanced opportunities to win significant prizemoney identified by owners and trainers from GBB registered fillies.

In an industry facing significant economic challenges, the importance of the GBB is more pronounced than ever. Profitability in the breeding sector is hard to find, with a PwC report revealing that the median value for a foal sold sits at around -£27,000 and that 66% of breeders are making a loss. This challenging financial landscape has led to a decline in the number of breeders, broodmares, and foal crop numbersa troubling trend seen not only in Britain but globally.

Trainer Ralph Beckett, a multiple classic-winning trainer and a staunch supporter of GBB, emphasises the importance of the scheme. Beckett states, The Great British Bonus (GBB) represents one of the most forward-thinking initiatives in British racing that Ive seen. I've had the privilege of training some outstanding fillies who have secured valuable bonuses for their owners, fillies like Bluestocking, Lezoo and Haskoy have risen to the very top of the game, but even for those that dont, GBB provides a meaningful return on investment, allowing owners to enjoy the journey without worrying as much about the bottom line."

He continues, "Many of my owners are breeders, and we all recognise the pressures they faceBritish breeders are among the finest in the world, producing horses of exceptional quality that allow us to compete international and so they need and deserve every possible bit of support we can give; particularly if we still want an industry to work in and enjoy in 20 years times! Whilst Im sure it might be tempting for HBLB to channel all funding into general prize money, directing targeted support to nurture a specific sector of the Thoroughbred population is a decision that will see long-term benefits for the industry."

Earlier this year, it was announced that, thanks to additional funding from HBLB, GBB would be extended in January 2025 to offer additional support to staying fillies whose sires stood for a fee of £50,000 or less. Fillies registered to GBB and winning at 8 furlong and over as a two-year old or 10 furlongs and over as a three-year old could win bonuses of up to £40,000. The schemes extension will for the first time include class 1 4 handicaps and a selection of listed races at ten furlongs plus, the scheme offers further support to staying fillies.

HBLB is very much an active partner and its strategic support of GBB is a testament to its commitment to the long-term health of British breeding and racing. By funding initiatives like the GBB, the HBLB is not only meeting its statutory objectives but also helping to secure a more sustainable and prosperous future for the entire industry.