The Racing Post Reports the Passing of Alan Morcombe, Former Chief Executive of Horsemen’s Group at Age 71

Alan Morcombe, who was 71 at the time of his passing, was a highly respected figure in the horseracing industry. Former Horsemen’s Group chairman Paul Dixon fondly recalled Morcombe as a “brilliant negotiator” who had a talent for making things happen. Morcombe joined the forerunner of the Thoroughbred Group in 2010, following successful stints as chief executive at technology provider Alphameric and executive chairman of TurfTV. During his tenure, he was known for his strong advocacy on behalf of his members, and, alongside Dixon, he played a key role in creating the tariff, which established minimum prize-money levels for the group’s members to guide where their horses should run.

Morcombe was instrumental in securing a fair return for the sport’s participants, leading to an increase of approximately £25 million in prize money. Dixon emphasized Morcombe’s determination and effectiveness as a negotiator, which ultimately led to a fair return for the participants. Morcombe’s departure from the Horsemen’s Group at the end of 2012 was due to a clash with senior figures within the organization. His departure was lamented by many, who opined that the group had regressed since his absence.

Prior to his role in the Horsemen’s Group, Morcombe played a key role in establishing TurfTV, a joint venture between Alphameric and Britain’s racecourses. His passing was mourned by former Jockey Club chief executive Simon Bazalgette, who remembered Morcombe as a valued partner. He left behind his wife Sue and their children John and Kate. Morcombe’s funeral service and reception were scheduled to be held at H D Tribe, with donations encouraged for Prostate Cancer Research in lieu of flowers.