Cross Breeds

What does it take to run a Thoroughbred horse racing/breeding stable?

What does it take to run a Thoroughbred horse racing/breeding stable? I am very passionate about horses I have ridden and owned them all my life. I definitely want to be involved in them and recently I have been very interested in owning my own race horses, racing them, and breeding them. The more I learn, the more I want to do it. So please any input that you think would help to learn and prepare more and what to expect would be great. Where do I start? I'm 20 now and live in the UK i've worked for the past five years to get money together to Support me with whatever i choose to do i would just like realistic opinions on whether it would be a good idea or not. I don't own any land but a man i know has just bought 50 acres and told me he planned to sell some of it. Before i get to into the idea i'd like to know how i'd start?

Public Comments

1. a lot of money and time
2. Do you have any experience in the racing world? If not, you should learn all that you can before jumping in. Racing is a very expensive sport. Sure, you can start small with one race horse or broodmare, but if you don't know what you're doing, you can make costly mistakes and be taken advantage of by others. Make sure you have a good support system - a trustworthy trainer or adviser to help you along the way. Since you love racing and know how to ride, plus have a bit of money put aside, why not apply to the Darley Flying Start school? You'll get a first class education about racing and meet some very well connected people who can mentor you and advise you down the road when you're ready to start your stable. Here's the link: http://www.darleyflyingstart.com/ If the Darley program isn't something you're interested in - then how about pursuing Equine Studies at college? You'll graduate with the ability to work in the racing industry while further saving toward your goals of a racing/breeding farm. If you just can't wait and have to buy that racehorse or broodmare, define your goals. Ask yourself the following questions: At what level of racing can you realistically afford to compete? Research the costs of various trainers, the costs for the horses, etc. If you plan on buying a broodmare - do you know anything about pedigree and conformation? Can you afford stud fees,and if so, at what level? If your resulting foal can only compete at the claiming levels, are you ok with that? Do you have anyone to assist you in purchasing a mare from the races or sales? Can you afford natal care for the mare and ability to care for the resulting foal? Are you covered for emergencies if the mare has trouble foaling or she and/or the foal become ill or hurt? How about insurance? I'm not trying to put a damper on your dream. I know of a 21 year old who bought his first mare last year who had a foal by her side. He plans on selling the foal next year and the mare is pregnant with another. He has worked for a horse sales agency and has trustworthy contacts within the racing industry to guide him in making the right choices and decisions. He's currently in college pursuing a degree in Equine studies. He eventually wants to have his own racing stable and keep a few broodmares to breed at the top level. Good luck and I hope you fulfill your dream!
3. The best thing you can do is find a trainer who will take you on as an apprentice. You've got a good background with horses, and that will help a lot.