Empowering the Heart of the Racing Industry
4Racing and the ROA’s Collaborative Commitment to Grooms’ Growth and Well-being
In the fast-paced world of horse racing, the grooms remain the unsung heroes, working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the well-being and performance of racehorses. Recognizing their invaluable contribution, 4Racing has embarked on a transformative journey to uplift and empower these essential workers through innovative partnerships and initiatives aimed at improving their quality of life.
A Unified Approach: Collaboration for Change
4Racing, in partnership with the Racehorse Owners Association and 4Racing-affiliated trainers, has spearheaded a range of benefits and services designed to address the holistic needs of grooms. Since the inception of these programs, the impact has been significant, both on the ground and in the workplace environment. Wellness sessions, where nurses conducted general health screenings, saw an impressive 64% attendance rate, demonstrating the grooms’ willingness to engage in positive health behaviors.
Additionally, the Workers’ Day engagement, themed “Positive Masculinity,” further fostered a sense of community and emotional support. This initiative has contributed to a noticeable shift in workplace culture—from negative sentiments to a more positive and collaborative atmosphere. Since 4Racing has taken over in its respective regions, the industry has enjoyed a period of calm, free from the disruptions of wild strikes, even during major racing events.
Enhanced Services, Lasting Impact
One of the cornerstones of 4Racing and the ROA’scommitment, is the provision of comprehensive medical and funeral benefits for grooms. The voluntary uptake of these services has seen a 55% increase in utilization since the close of the last financial year. This upward trend reflects a growing awareness among grooms of the value of proactive health care and support during difficult times, such as bereavements.
In particular, the engagement with health services has surged, with general practitioner visits climbing from 11% to 38%, dental visits increasing from 15% to 33%, specialist consultations rising from 6% to 12%, and chemist consultations jumping from 4% to 8%. These improvements are a testament to the success of both the ROA and 4Racing’s efforts to make medical services more accessible and trusted by the grooms.
A New Era of Stability and Growth
The benefits extend beyond health care. The accommodation for grooms at Turffontein remains in good, habitable condition, ensuring that their living environment supports their well-being. This stable environment, coupled with the enhanced services, has led to reduced turnover, fewer industrial actions, and greater engagement from the workforce.
Moreover, the transformation is not just about immediate benefits—it’s also about opening pathways for long-term growth and development. One standout example is a groom who recently completed his security competency training, setting a precedent for others to follow. This initiative underscores 4Racing’s commitment to the professional and personal development of its jurisdiction, enabling them to grow and advance within and beyond the industry.
Looking Ahead: A Culture of Care and Collaboration
Together the ROA and 4Racing’s dedication to the well-being of its grooms is evident in the culture of care it has fostered, where all stakeholders come together to support one another, especially during challenging times. This approach has not only enhanced the grooms’ quality of life but has also contributed to the overall stability of the industry. As 4Racing continues its transformation journey, the grooms remain at the heart of its mission—empowered, valued, and ready to seize new opportunities.
With these initiatives, 4Racing, in partnership with the ROA, is not just transforming the lives of grooms; it’s shaping a brighter, more sustainable future for the entire racing industry.
