SBC News Voice of the Sports Betting Industry
Racecourse owner Arena Racing Company has announced that Managing Director Tony Kelly is set to leave the company at the end of July. Kelly will take up the role of Executive Director Racing Business & Operations with the Hong Kong Jockey Club in the autumn.
Kelly joined the company in August 2004 as Group Finance Director of Northern Racing Ltd and was subsequently made Group Managing Director in 2008 following Northern Racing’s sale the previous year. Four years later he oversaw the acquisition of Arena Leisure PLC and assumed overall control of the newly created ARC in March 2012.
ARC Chairman David Thorpe said: “Tony has made a massive contribution during his 11 years’ service and he will be very much missed. The Board and the shareholders wish him every possible success. Tony leaves behind a strong and talented management team at ARC which will continue to grow and develop the business. We are in the process of seeking a successor to Tony and look forward to making an announcement in due course.”
Kelly said: “I have had a wonderful 11 years, initially at Northern Racing and more latterly ARC, and I will take with me a multitude of happy memories and experiences. I have enjoyed working for David and Simon Reuben and will miss ARC, most particularly the wonderful people in the Company. In my opinion they are some of the most talented and committed individuals working in British Racing. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity and I am incredibly excited to be able to join the Hong Kong Jockey Club and challenge myself in a new and exciting environment.”
