Basel looks forward to new challenge

Clyde Basel has resigned as CEO of the Racing Association to take up the position of Sales Executive with Phumelela Gaming & Leisure.

Basel will join Phumelela on 1 June 2009 and will be responsible for marketing the company's assets - both on and off its racecourses. These include racing broadcast sponsorships and advertising, raceday hospitality, vending rights and branding.

Basel, one of South Africa's leading horse racing commentators for many years, took over the running of the RA head office in August 2007. His energy and enthusiasm for the job made an immediate impression on racing communities in the Phumelela-administered regions.

Among the many initiatives that he drove at the RA were major improvements to the race day experience at Turffontein racecourse - in collaboration with Phumelela. He also greatly enhanced communication channels with RA members and was a key motivator behind many RA initiatives.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as CEO of the RA," said Basel. "I believe that - together with my chairman, board and staff at the RA - we've managed to make some positive changes to the face of racing, and earn the RA renewed respect.

The future of the RA is vital to ensure that horse racing is steered in the direction of the best interests of its members.

"It is also important to realise that Phumelela has to be focused on earning income to sustain the industry's welfare. So, a good balance is imperative to all stakes holders - with the primary focus being on the local product.

"I want to thank all RA members for their support and wish them well. I also must thank RA chairman Larry Wainstein for his assistance, and I hope to retain what had been a fantastic relationship with him and the other RA directors."

Wainstein said: "It was a privilege to work with someone who has so much enthusiasm and commitment. The next person in will have huge shoes to fill. I wish Clyde well with this new challenge."

Phumelela group CEO Rian du Plessis: "I am delighted to have Clyde as part of our team! I am looking forward to working with Clyde to find new and alternative sources of revenue for the industry."

Well done Clyde, thought you did a great job for the RA, all the best for the future and keep your racing interests as number one priority.

well done Clyde,,

All the best Clyde Basel - good to have someone young and enthusiastic getting behind marketing. Break into mainstream media and you are on your way IMHO

did not see this post>

for sure wish him all the best as a real enthusiast with passion and new ideas.

but let's look at this structurally. the RA persuades P that it can do a better job of the race day experience, proceeds to do so, P thinks "shit, if it's that easy why can't we do it" and then hires the very guy who has delivered the RA's strategy.

why have the RA at all?

my prediction (regrettably) is that Clyde will become frustrated within 6 months and eventually get buried by the control freaks that wander the corridors at P. but at least he'll have share options.

good luck fella

Clyde you did a good job mate..enjoy the corporate world

PS what happens to Robert's job?

What size shoe does Clyde wear?

Very Large ones! Heaven help the person who has to fill them, heck of a high standard to try and maintain!

He made everybody feel welcome and relevant and was always available for comment and new ideas.

Good on you Clyde, all the best.

from ceo to sales executive? Well done on your demotion Clyde

Greenbook,I think your assessment is spot on!I think it is hard for RA staff to remember they are not P staff.
The problem of P's bad management of local racing affairs, is not going to be confronted by the RA,as the boundaries are blurred!
Clyde did a good job and can hopefully continue the good work from within, but racing still needs a body to keep P on it's toes.
I am not sure that local racing is alive and well,as we are led to believe!