Showcasing the ‘world of ownership’ is one of the key aims for Ascot racecourse with its inaugural Discover Racehorse Ownership Weekend taking place at the Berkshire track on Friday and Saturday.
It will give racegoers a unique opportunity to go behind the scenes and gain a fascinating insight into the unrivalled excitement of owning a racehorse.
Twenty syndicates will have stalls at the course over the two-day meeting including Kim Bailey Racing, sponsor of the third race on Friday – the Join Kim Bailey Racing ‘Introductory’ Hurdle.
The Racehorse Owners Association has designated races on both days while the penultimate race on Friday is the inthepaddock.co.uk Handicap Steeple Chase, referencing Great British Racing’s guide to shared ownership.
Saturday morning will see a partnership parade take place that will feature horses from Middleham Park Racing, Heart of the South Racing, Kim Bailey Racing, BG Racing Syndicates, Dare to Dream, Martin Keighley Racing Partnerships and Brian Meehan/Manton TB’s.
Nick Smith, Director of Racing and Communications at Ascot racecourse, said: “We are most grateful for the assistance we have received with this initiative from the ROA and delighted to have 20 syndicates on board. Hopefully the day will open the window to the world of ownership for people who may not have considered it before.
“Syndicates are very important to the health of British racing”
“We selected this particular weekend as it historically attracts a knowledgeable crowd of enthusiasts who are familiar with the sport, for whom ownership, particularly fractional ownership, might be a natural next step.”
Charlie Liverton, Chief Executive of the Racehorse Owners Association, said: “Syndicates are very important to the health of British racing, not just today but in the future.
“The benefits that shared ownership bring to the industry are well known, and as an industry, understanding how we can meet the expectations of syndicate members is crucial. Importantly, we now know from our research that if the syndicate experience is positive, then these tentative steps normally result in owners owning more shares in more horses.
“The industry strategy moving forward is to enhance and improve the experience of syndicate members. The popularity of the two days at Ascot shows that many syndicates are determined to be transparent, inclusive and find enjoyable ways of allowing people to experience the unique thrill of ownership.
“Our thanks go to Ascot and the syndicates attending the new Discover Racehorse Ownership Weekend meeting for helping more enthusiasts realise their dream of becoming an owner.”
As part of the weekend, Ascot will also open their Sunflower Lawn, located on the Grundy & Bustino Lawn, where guests with additional needs can enjoy their day away from the crowds. The initiative has come about thanks to Ascot’s partnership with Debbie Matthews from Go Racing Green.
