News
Newbury Racecourse Groundsman Retires After 47 Years Of Outstanding Service
After an extraordinary 47 years of dedicated service, Barry Mason retired from his role as Groundsperson at Newbury Racecourse on Saturday 29th November, choosing to call time after his favourite meeting – Coral Gold Cup weekend.
Since joining the Newbury team on 25th October 1978, Barry’s commitment and expertise have helped shape the racecourse as we know it today. From dawn till dusk and in all weather conditions, Barry has worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the racing surface, fences and grounds are properly prepared for every fixture.
In his final year on the team, Barry’s contribution was recognised when Newbury was named Racecourse Groundstaff Champion at the 2025 Racecourse Association (RCA) Showcase Awards. Having already been named best dual-purpose racecourse, Newbury was confirmed as the overall Champion by an independent agronomist following a detailed inspection.
The award celebrates excellence in British racecourse groundsmanship and turf husbandry, highlighting the team’s efforts across the year and consistent performance during both the Flat and Jumps racing seasons.
Speaking about his last day at the racecourse, Mason said: “It hasn’t really sunk in yet. I’ve really enjoyed it but it’s quite sad at the same time.
“I got quite a few things planned and I’ll be able to come here to the stands for the first time ever. I just love horsing racing anyway.”
George Hill, Racing Director and Clerk of the Course at Newbury, said: “47 years – it’s a remarkable amount of time. The amount of work that has gone into the track over those years and the changes Barry has seen, how the racecourse has evolved over time, it’s magnificent.
He’s been a pleasure to work with and I know he’s going to be sorely missed by the team and to have that amount of time dedicated to racing and to Newbury Racecourse – it will be hard to match really. We wish him the very best in his retirement and we look forward to seeing him with a racecard and a beer in his hand.”
Newbury Racecourse would like to thank Barry for his outstanding service and wish him all the very best for a well-earned and happy retirement.
