When it comes to expanding the width of inclusivity in sports, the British Racing Authority (BRA) has made successful progress with the LGBT+ Network under the banner of “Racing With Pride”.

Horse racing is one of the oldest sports in the world, and even though it looks pretty much the same, horse racing has evolved a lot throughout the years. From introduction to new technologies to making the sport women-friendly, and to opening the gates of the LGBT+ community, organizers have one goal of making the sport equal for everybody.

The LGBT+ Network move by the British Racing Authority marks a significant milestone in the sport’s history, and on top of that, it showcases its commitment to diversity, unity, and acceptance.

After all, a global sport like horse racing should be equal for everybody, and the whole idea of the sport is gatherings and unity. Most people attend horse racing events just for the atmosphere, - the race lasts for only a couple of minutes.

With that said, let’s take a much deeper look at the LGBT+ Network and find out what it is all about. 

Origins and Evolution

The network is intended for British racing participants, employees, and fans who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or other sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBT+), as well as allies of the LGBT+ community who wish to show solidarity regardless of their personal identification. 

It will seek to: 

• Support: provide a secure area for LGBT+ persons and allies to connect, get support, have fun, and race both online and in person. 

• Awareness: Increase knowledge of LGBT+ inclusiveness to guarantee that racing is a sport for everyone, encouraging everyone to step up as allies. 

• Engagement: create a forum for the sport's LGBT+ community to have a collective say in influencing the industry's future LGBT+ activities.

The LGBT+ Network at the British Racing Authority stems from a growing realization of the value of diversity and inclusiveness in all parts of society, including sports. 

The BRA set out on this path to build a more accepting and inclusive environment for people throughout the LGBT+ community, with the help of key partners, ardent advocates within the racing community, and ideas from other successful diversity programs in sports.

The network was founded and established by the DiRSG's dedicated LGBT+ sub-group, with the goal of being for and directed by its members. It will be mostly social media-based, with a protected Facebook group serving as a safe location for members to connect and engage, as well as future plans to hold a variety of events. Updates will also be accessible through the Racing With Pride Twitter account.

It is intended that the network will provide a platform for influencing future action, such as racing to join Stonewall's Rainbow Laces event in November.

“Given the recent coronavirus pandemic, many of us have experienced increased feelings of isolation and loneliness over the past few months, and research shows that these feelings and associated mental health issues are heightened within the LGBT+ community. Said Rose Grissel, the Head of Diversity and Inclusion at the British Horseracing Authority. 

She also added - “We recognize this additional vulnerability and believe now is the right time to ensure racing’s LGBT+ participants and fans feel included and valued.

How It Works

The British Racing Authority's LGBT+ Network serves as a forum for promoting inclusiveness, awareness, and support throughout the racing community. It provides a safe area for people to interact, share their stories, and obtain information about diversity and inclusion. 

The network's projects, workshops, and instructional programs seek to foster understanding, respect, and equality at all levels of the racing business.

It's Impact

After some time, it is safe to assume that the LGBT+ Network has a much deeper impact reaching far beyond the racetrack to fans, spectators, and supporters of the horse racing community worldwide. 

This will open up the border of the sport and help it reach more audiences. With such initiatives, everyone will be included in the Kentucky Derby morning line odds, watch a horse racing event, or express their interest in the sport.

It seems like the powerful message sent from the British Racing Authority about unity and acceptance reached the global audience and brought a lot of good to the sport. 

This is something that horse racing as a sport needs just because it has been struggling in the past couple of years to maintain and extend its fanbase, especially when we are talking about the younger generation.

With the LGBT+ Network, spectators from all around the world are not only encouraged to support the sport, but also to embrace its values, tolerance, and respect for individuals.

Milestones and Achievements

Since its beginnings, the LGBT+ Network has accomplished significant milestones and received extensive support from the racing community. 

From sponsoring inclusive events to collaborating with advocacy organizations, the network is making progress toward establishing a more open and inviting atmosphere for all horse racing participants. These efforts are reflected in increased awareness, engagement, and participation from individuals across the LGBT+ spectrum.

Insights and Statistics

According to recent polls and data analysis, the launch of the LGBT+ Network has improved the view of horse racing across various populations. 

Statistics demonstrate an increase in attendance and involvement among LGBT+ people, emphasizing the necessity of inclusive approaches in fostering good change in the sport. These findings will guide future strategies and actions focused at increasing diversity and inclusiveness in racing.