The lucrative Great British Bonus scheme has passed a major milestone, with more than £5 million ($6,415,400) now paid for connections of GBB registered slots since its inception. beginning in May 2020.
The mark was reached as Cazoo Oaks (G1) entry Emily Upjohn grabbed two wins from multiple starts in Nordoff Robbins Charlie Watts Memorial Fillies’ Novice Stakes at Sandown April 22.
Set up with the aim of improving the demand and value of British hybrids in sales, the industry incentive scheme offers a variety of bonuses of up to £20,000 ($25,661) per qualifying race. for ponies and half-British mothers.
Rewards are divided among winning connections, with 65% going to owners, 20% to breeders, 7.5% to trainers, 5% to horse racing players and 2.5% to stable staff.
The GBB program gave its first reward to Mark Johnston-trained Pelekai in June 2020 and has now paid out more than £5 million across 375 races — 237 flat runs and 138 jumps, including cruises. action on Saturday.
A particularly attractive selling point is the cannonball and the mare that can win a variety of prizes. Dan Skelton-managed Molly Ollys Wishes won four prizes worth £80,000 ($102,646), while many other bonus scorers included Dragon Bones (four, £70,000 ($89,815) dollars)), Blackberry (three, 60,000 pounds ($76,984)), Anythingforlove (three, 60,000 pounds) and Chilli Filli (three, 30,000 pounds ($38,492)).
Emily Upjohn: Sandown winner brought GBB plan past £5m mark
Charlie Newton, chief operating officer of operations said: “The Great British Bonus has been really well received by the industry and supports not only owners, trainers and stable staff but importantly, breeders.
“Demand for GBB fillings is huge and we are seeing clear evidence that the value of British hybrid fillings is increasing in sales.
“I keep saying that GBB is making a difference and that there is no more worry and frustration in the barns if you have more food than ponies.”
She continued: “The small, private breeders that make up a large portion of the sector are telling us that GBB is making breeding worthwhile, that they are buying another mare or they don’t give up anymore because GBB is already a game-changer.
“Having paid out £5 million in less than two years is great news for the industry and we are truly grateful to not only the Levy Board of Directors, who helped fund the scheme and make it work. make it possible but also for all the breeders, owners and trainers who support it.”
Philip Newton, TBA’s vice president, added: “In just 22 short months, GBB has changed behavior, influenced livestock decisions, increased sales revenue, and rewarded owners. We don’t. What more could you wish for?”
