British racecourse operator Arena Racing Company (ARC) has announced that David Thorpe is to step down as its chairman from 30 April.
Thorpe has served in the role since April 2014, prior to which he was chairman of both the Racecourse Association and Arena Leisure.
He also served on the boards of the Horserace Betting Levy Board and British Horseracing Authority.
“I have decided that, after nearly a decade as chairman, it is the right time to step down,” Thorpe said. “I look forward to some more time in retirement, as well as the opportunity to pursue other interests.
“It has been a significant source of pride to see the company flourish and grow over the past few years and without doubt we have assembled an incredibly smart, passionate and hard-working team. I am equally delighted to have been part of creating a new industry structure, a major improvement which should serve the sport well in to the future.
“I am sure the company will only continue to get stronger and more succes..