News
The Great British Bonus (GBB) scheme continues to go from strength to strength, with provisional figures indicating a record 1,035 fillies registered for Stage 3 (2YO) Flat in 2025. This surpasses last years ground breaking 1,007 registrations, marking the second consecutive year that numbers have exceeded the 1,000 threshold - a testament to the schemes increasing appeal and impact.
Despite industry challenges such as a declining foal crop, a subdued sales season, and increased registration fees, GBB continues to thrive. This year, 78.5% of Stage 2 registrants progressed to Stage 3, an improvement on the 77.9% recorded in 2024. As a result, fully registered Flat GBB fillies now represent 44.9% of the 2023 filly foal crop - an all-time high. This marks a significant rise from 36.5% of the 2019 foal crop, reinforcing the schemes vital role in keeping more fillies racing in Britain.
Further demonstrating GBBs growing influence, the latest registrations reveal an encouraging trend: alongside strong participation from breeze-up consignors, several high-profile Irish trainers - including Henry de Bromhead and Joseph OBrien - have also registered fillies for Stage 3. This international engagement underscores the schemes value in supporting and incentivising the continued racing careers of fillies within Britain.
In National Hunt racing, GBBPlus, which rewards chasing mares with bonuses of up to £30,000, is already showing early signs of making a positive impact. Data from the British Horseracing Authoritys (BHA) latest population report highlights a notable increase in the percentage of total chase runners that are mares or fillies. Year-to-date figures show that 13.2% of total runners were mares, compared to just 9.7% last year. This represents a 10-year high, with the percentage having been as low as 6.5% in 2016. This upward trajectory aligns with GBBs broader goal of increasing opportunities and retention rates for chasing mares.
This result is truly remarkable given the economic backdrop and industry challenges, said GBBs Charlie Newton The continued growth in registrations proves that the scheme is working and is highly valued by owners, breeders, and trainers alike. The increasing participation from Irish trainers and the early impact of GBBPlus on NH racing are especially encouraging signs.
GBB is coming into its fifth year of life and has constantly delivered results. It demonstrates that targeted and clever use of funds can absolutely drive behaviour change. We are incredibly grateful to the Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB), the schemes majority funders, whose continued support has been instrumental in making GBB such a success
As GBB continues to evolve, the scheme remains steadfast in its mission to keep more fillies in training and racing in Britain and so a higher quality broodmare band all of which will ensure a stronger and more sustainable future for the industry.