John Baker has announced his intention to stand down from his position as managing director of Aintree prior to the 2020 Grand National on April 4th. Baker has made clear his desire to take a “short break” having been responsible for the running of Aintree, Carlisle and Haydock Park racecourses since 2012.
He was appointed as Aintree racecourse managing director in 2018 and during this time he has enhanced the facilities at the famous course and increased the purse for the showpiece Grand National race to £1 million.
Baker said: “I have absolutely loved my 17 years working for Jockey Club Racecourses. I joined as general manager at Carlisle, where I have some wonderful memories, and as a little boy watching the Grand National with my granddad.
“Who would have thought one day I would head up the team tasked with delivering what I consider to be the world’s greatest race?
“I’m incredibly proud of the fantastic Aintree and North West team, and I would also like to thank everyone outside Jockey Club Racecourses who have supported what we’ve been doing; it really makes a difference.
“Once I made the decision to stand down in favour of a short break after 30 years of continuous work we agreed that would be ahead of this year’s festival, but not before a successful Grand National weights event. With a great team in place I leave knowing the Randox Health Grand National Festival is in excellent hands.”
