ENGLISH TEXTS as was Ezeliya ’ s victory in the Oaks at Epsom , especially as it was a first since I joined the organisation .
3That it ensures the return to the industry . On a personal level , I have noticed that we often lack creativity and inventiveness in terms of betting . Of course , there are certainly legal constraints , but I think that if there was real motivation , we could move these lines . My feeling is that we are stuck with a model that is starting to look dated .
4This is a normal evolution of things in an era of globalisation and evolution in racing . In my opinion , it is a desirable evolution because I don ’ t think these successes really affect our races but rather offer additional avenues to explore .
NH
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By Olivier Villepreux
PAU : A SUSTAINABLE RACETRACK FOR THE FUTURE
Ecology , safet , and spectacle . A look at the innovations and renovations overseen by Jean Brouqueyre , who took the helm at Pau ’ s racetrack around 15 years ago . His arrival marked the beginning of a much-needed professionalization of the track ’ s operations . With changing times , Brouqueyre has worked to adapt Pau ’ s racetrack to new challenges .
Open-Mindedness Jean Brouqueyre ’ s philosophy is simple : “ Wealth comes from outside .” Recognizing horse racing as a somewhat insular sport , he set out to integrate it into a rapidly evolving society . “ I believe we need to demystify and democratize horse racing . We are not disconnected from other industries ,” he explains . This reconnection is crucial : “ I think people from other professional sectors can absolutely work at France Galop or at the Pau racetrack .” While embracing new influences , Brouqueyre respects the deep cultural heritage of horse racing . He readily acknowledges that he is not responsible for the DNA of Pau ’ s racing identity , which ranks as France ’ s second-largest jump racing venue after Auteuil .
Improving the Visitor Experience and Spectacle “ When we draw 14,000 spectators , it ’ s an impressive turnout and puts us among the best . But in rugby , that ’ s just a standard crowd ,” he notes . “ The racetrack needs to be part of a larger framework .” For example , offering free entry helps attract visitors , which in turn facilitates partnerships . This strategy has boosted revenue , including € 350,000 annually from food and beverage services alone . The racetrack ’ s layout has also been revamped to enhance the experience . “ We redesigned the parade ring . People want to see the horses — they ’ re the stars of the show . We created a central walkway so everyone can watch them arrive . We also installed a podium inspired by Cheltenham .”
Reducing reserved areas does not mean abandoning the traditions of horse racing . “ We mustn ’ t sanitize the sport . There ’ s nothing more beautiful than a well-groomed horse , prepared with its blanket , saddle cloth , and race number . That ’ s the essence of the attraction , and we mustn ’ t deny who we are .”
Moving with the Times Brouqueyre aims to modernize Pau ’ s racetrack as an “ institution that keeps pace with the times , enhancing our image and reputation .” This includes behind-the-scenes improvements to reassure those concerned about the welfare of horses and jockeys . Safety enhancements have significantly reduced accidents . “ Historically , the fall statistics at Pau weren ’ t great . Today , we ’ re one of the safest racetracks , with a fall rate of just 3.5 % annually . Renovating obstacles has improved safety . For example , we ’ ve replaced wooden takeoff bars with more flexible polyethylene ones and recalibrated the obstacles to enhance horse extension . This means the horses pass through the hedges rather than over them .” These efforts address evolving societal expectations . “ It ’ s a comprehensive approach that requires staff .”
Tackling Winter Challenges One of the racetrack ’ s key challenges is managing winter weather . Running races during this season requires meticulous care of the track . While sunny days may thaw the ground , freezing temperatures at night can cause damage . “ The ground is what it is — you have to work with it . For example , we maintain grass at a height of 15 – 18 cm to protect against weather and frost . Watering helps keep the track supple . Another unique feature is that we rope off parts of the course
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