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Selecting your trainer
Once you have decided to take the plunge and become involved in the world of thoroughbred racehorse ownership the most important decision you will make is the selection of a professional trainer.
The relationship between owner and trainer will dictate the level of involvement and enjoyment you will obtain during your racing experience. If you anticipate attending early morning trackwork and being an integral part of the decision making process when it comes to your horse's racing programme then it is essential you advise the trainer of your expectations.
Treat the selection of your trainer as you would an interview of a prospective employee and be aware of the attributes you expect your trainer to possess. As a potential client you should feel able to speak to a variety of trainers before making your final decision.
A short list could be drawn up based upon location; experience and success - you could lean towards an up-and-coming young trainer who lives closer to you as opposed to one of the more established older trainers for instance.
Arrange a visit to the trainer's establishment and ask questions regarding the trainer's general philosophy towards training, his methods of communication with clients, usual number of horses in the stable, daily training rates and other related costs and any other aspects of training you wish to have clarified.
The most important aspect of selecting your trainer is the personal rapport you have with him - the more harmonious your relationship with the trainer, the more enhanced your ownership experience will be. .
20 Questions to get you started
What is your daily training rate?
What else do you bill for (eg track fees, dentist, blacksmith etc)?
Do you use a particular float company?
Who is your vet and how often would he visit your stable?
Where do your horses spell?
Do you have email?
How do you advise owners of a horse's progress?
Do you include the owner in your plans for a horse's racing programme?
Do you encourage owners to visit the stable?
Do you use a particular stable jockey?
Do you encourage your owners to have input into selection of jockeys?
Would you prefer to have contact with one syndicate member rather than individual members of the group calling you?
What is the best way to contact you?
What is the best time to contact you?
If you are overseas or away at another venue who do we liaise with at your stable?
Will you tell us if you feel the horse will not make a racehorse?
If that were the case would you be prepared to help us find a replacement?
Do you have a website?
Do you send out a regular stable newsletter?
Do you enjoy celebrating/commiserating with your owners after a race?
Remember the idea is to establish whether or not you believe the trainer concerned suits your needs and requirements.
You may not particularly care to be involved in planning your horse's racing programme, instead leaving it to the professional you are paying to do the job. However, the important thing to ensure is that you are happy you are going to be able to communicate with your trainer to your mutual satisfaction.
You may have other questions you wish to include but the above 20 questions cover the basic requirements.
Enjoy racing your horse!
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