Phil Smith to Retire From BHA

Phil Smith, the British Horseracing Authority's Head of Handicapping, will retire from his handicapping role at the end of May and at the end of July from the BHA, that organisation announced Wednesday. Smith decided to announce his retirement well in advance, so the BHA could find a successor.

Smith, 68, has served 22 years with the BHA and joined the British Horseracing Board in August of 1995 as a flat handicapper, before moving up to senior national hunt handicapper in 1999. He was promoted to his current role with the BHA in January 2007. During his tenure, Smith introduced the Anglo-Irish Jumps Classification in the 1999-2000 season; as well as provided the data which drove two changes in the jumping weight-for-age scale; and recently achieving European agreement to make an adjustment to the flat weight-for-age scale for the first time in over 20 years. Due to Smith's efforts, the handicapping practice in the Grand National were altered to introduce 'compression' at the top of the weights, as well as help raise the profile of the race and improve the quality and safety of the horses in it.

Internationally Smith represented Great Britain at the end of year conference in Hong Kong since 2007, and now co-chairs that event, while in 2013 he was appointed co-chairman of the Longines World's Best Racehorse Rankings Executive Committee, and has participated as a member of the jury for the Cartier Awards for the past three years. Smith also provides data and information to the European Pattern Committee and the IFHA and sits on the selection committee for Breeders' Cup.

“I have really enjoyed my time as an official handicapper,” said Smith. “Although I will be moving on from working full time as the head of handicapping, I hope to continue my international commitments and to stay involved in racing utilising the skills and knowledge I have gained over the last 20 years or so.”

“We would like to warmly congratulate Phil on his retirement and thank him for his loyal and distinguished service to the BHA and British Racing over the past 22 years,” said Richard Wayman, Chief Operating Officer of the BHA. “His influence extends beyond Britain and he has made a major contribution on the international stage. His contribution will be greatly missed by all at the BHA and he as our very best wishes for the future.”