The HWPA will launch its second Racing Media Week next week (Mon 27-Dec 3) with a revamped format.

The concept is driven to celebrate the variety of work across the horse racing media ahead of the HWPA Derby Awards, which take place on December 4.

Each day a piece of content will be posted on the HWPA website and social media channels and this year features interviews with key figures at ITV Racing, the Racing Post, Racing TV and Sky Sports Racing.


2023 HWPA Racing Media Week

Monday: Behind the scenes at ITV Racing, with producer Tim Williams
Tuesday: Racing Post journalism masterclass, with Jonathan Harding and Maddy Playle
Wednesday: Mastering racing photography, with award winner Megan Dent
Thursday: Finding winner and paddock watching, with David Massey
Friday: How to commentate on a race, with Darren Owen.
Saturday: Pro tips from the Racing TV experts
Sunday: Best bits from 2022


The week kicks off with a glance behind the scenes at ITV Racing with producer Tim Williams, before the Racing Post’s Jonathan Harding, a two-time Derby award winner, and Maddy Playle give a journalism masterclass.

On Wednesday, Megan Dent reveals the secrets to her success in last year’s Emerging Talent award at a morning with Christian Williams, a nominee for leading jump trainer at the upcoming awards.

Experienced pro-punter and paddock expert Dave Massey highlights an insight into his role during a course walk at Cheltenham before Darren Owen shares an insight into the art of race commentary.

Racing Media Week finishes with some expert advice from some of the leading names at Racing TV and Sky Sports Racing and the best bits from the inaugural week.

The project has been co-ordinated by HWPA committee members James Stevens (Racing Post) and Harry Allwood (Racing TV).

Joint project lead James Stevens said: “We’ve really tried to up our game from last year and invite all members of the media to spread to word on this.

“There are two main purposes of the week; firstly to shine a spotlight and celebrate everyone involved in the media behind such a huge sport. But also to open the door to anyone who is, or may, consider working in the industry.“