The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has confirmed that Shaun Parker – Chief Stipendiary Steward for the National Horseracing Authority of South Africa based in Durban – has been appointed as its new Head of Stewarding.
The appointment, which follows on from a lengthy, extensive global recruitment process, will see Parker take responsibility for the management of the BHA’s stewarding team, and for overseeing strategic development with the objective of ensuring that British racing delivers the highest possible standards of raceday regulation.
Brant Dunshea, Chief Regulatory Officer for the BHA, said: “British horseracing is a world leader amongst racing nations, and it is crucial that its most senior steward is of a calibre worthy of the role.
“That is exactly what we have with Shaun – not only does he have an appreciation of the rich history of British racing having previously worked here, he also brings with him extensive experience as a leading regulator with a major international jurisdiction, and a genuinely international reputation.
“Our thanks go again to Paul Barton, who has recently retired from the role of Head of Stewarding, for his years of dedicated service to the sport.”
With over 24 years of experience in stewarding roles across the UK and South Africa, Parker will also play a key leadership role in the ongoing roll-out of the sport’s new “One Team” race day officiating model.
Parker has previously worked as a Stipendiary Steward in South Africa in 1995, before going on to begin his role as Stipendiary Steward in Britain during 2006-2007 for the then Horseracing Regulatory Authority (HRA).