Benefits of Racehorse Ownership
It's never been easier - or more affordable - to get involved with racehorse ownership. From the anticipation of seeing your horse in training through the discussion of his progress to the day you see him on the track for the first time - and that's before he's even won a race!
Contact us if you're interested in buying a horse with John Best.
Prize money
The most obvious benefit, prize money in Britain was worth over £100m in 2006. Prize money can extend down to the first six horses home in some races, and the winning owners often receive trophies to commemorate their horses' victories.
Appearance money
In some races, your horse may be eligible for appearance money, which was worth over £2.5m in 2006.
Sponsorship and the VAT scheme
You can seek sponsorship for your horse, and receive a financial reward for the placement of your sponsor's logo in various places such as paddock sheets and racecards.
If you do secure sponsorship for your horse, you can also reclaim VAT on his racing expenses. These include training fees, the capital cost of the horse, vets' and farriers' fees, and more.
Raceday benefits
When your horse runs you'll receive entry badges to the racecourse, which entitle you to access exclusive facilities such as the owners' bar and viewing areas and permission to enter the paddock before your horses' race - and the winner's enclosure if he wins!
Naming your horse
If your horse is unnamed, as most unraced yearlings and two-year-olds are, you may choose his name. The name must be no longer than 18 characters (including spaces) and cannot have been used before. Some owners like to use the names of their horse's parents in the name they choose, but many just select a name that is meaningful to them!
Choosing your colours
As an owner you are entitled to select and design the unique silks your horse will carry. Many owners choose colours that are special to them - such as their football team's colours - while others select silks that will be easily visible at the racetrack. As with names, colours must not have been used before.