Author: by Chloe Barrow
With Ascot fast approaching this June, it may be time to start planning your outfit and tentatively looking into which horse to back. Now, however, you could get even more involved in the race scene by actually competing on the day – no, not by self-styling as an amateur jockey (or putting on a bridle and horseshoes), but by owning a horse that runs at the event.
This year, for the first time ever, there will be a sale of high-achieving horses ‘ready to run’ in the Orangery at Kensington Palace – organised by Irish bloodstock merchant Goff in association with QIPCO – on the evening before Royal Ascot week begins on Monday 16 June. This means that, surprisingly, you can buy a horse that is eligible to run in the races that very week.
According to Goff, previously it was not possible to transfer ownership at such short notice, but now horses bought at the sale with entries for Royal Ascot are able to run in the colours of their new owners.
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David Brocklehurst, principal and pedigree head of Charlock Stud, tells Spear’s, ‘The thrill of racehorse ownership is an experience that all should aspire to and is enjoyed by many a celebrity as well as by many of the world’s most prestigious families including our own Royal family.’ Indeed one of the perks of owning a racehorse is that the Queen will present a prize to you if your horse wins a race.
‘Selecting and naming your horse is a lot of fun, and choosing your colours – which you could then see flashing past the winning post in first place – provides the thrill of a lifetime,’ he says. ‘When on the racecourse, whether it is Royal Ascot, Glorious Goodwood or any of the UK’s other tracks, owners enjoy special status and are revered for the success they achieve.’
While racehorse ownership gives you the opportunity to rub shoulders with celebrities and royals from all over the world, if you become involved in horse breeding you can also receive 50 per cent or more income and capital gains tax relief on your initial investment, according to Brocklehurst.
‘Many high net worth individuals have become involved in breeding racehorses and reaped financial rewards as well as the satisfaction of knowing that something they have created has been successful,’ he says.
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If owning a racehorse doesn’t sound up your street, there is also the option of sponsoring a race at Ascot as a way of promoting your company. It is also possible to lease a horse for the day, and should your horse win you are naturally entitled to the prize money – although it’s just as well to remember that while English racing may provide fame and glory, France is where the real money is, offering over twice that on offer in England.
To find out more about racehorse ownership in England or France, breeding racehorses tax efficiently, sponsoring a race to advertise a company or buying a horse ready to run at Royal Ascot, contact Caroline and David Brocklehurst of Charlock Stud on info@charlockstud.com or call 01327 855 660 / 855 661
