Joe Saumarez Smith dies at the age of 53: former BHA chair passes a few days after she stepped down because of poor health | Racing news
Former President of the British Cavalry Administration (BHA) Joe Saumarez Smith died at the age of 53.
Saumarez Smith stepped down from his role in late January for deteriorating his health after diagnosis of leptomeningal metastases.
He was chaired in June 2022, previously on the Committee since 2014.
Paying tribute to his colleague and friend, executive director BHA, CEO of Brant Dunshea, said: “It was a great privilege to know and cooperate with Joe, always providing wise advice and huge support for the BHA team for it personally, and We will be grateful for this for that.
“His dedication to advocating for the interests of Britain on the global stage was unwavering, and for that British races owed him a huge than gratitude. We will miss us terribly.”
David Jones, senior independent director of BHA, performs a temporary chair until Lord Charles Allen takes on a role on the constant basis of June 1.
Jones said, “Joe’s enthusiasm for sports shone in everything he did. He had such a deep knowledge of all the aspects of the industry, and I and other fellow colleagues will really miss his insight.”
In a statement on Tuesday, BHA described Saumarez Smith as “a dedicated supporter of sports, combining that urge with great diplomatic skills to promote races at home and abroad.”
He added: “Joe was one of the most influential and most striking figures in British races. In addition to his older roles, he was a global ambassador of sports in areas that are vital for the interests abroad of sports, influence and stature.
“Joe’s urge and dedication to races in the last two years is even more notable when he was made against his diagnosis of the fourth phase, which is an unopealful lung cancer.
“Although undergoing a weakened treatment, he was still present on British racing trails and took a tiring period of international trip to promote sports abroad, ensuring that British horses remain one of Britain’s biggest ways for internal investment while acting as one of the Government -The soft leafs of soft strength. “
Race television presenter Oli Bell paid tribute to Saumarez Smith on X, posting: “Joe was a real gentleman. Kind, thoughtful, intelligent and truly great friend to many. I, along with countless others, will be very missing. Thought with my wife with my wife Wanda and his dear children Matilda and Oliver send them prayers and love. “
