Can Owners Go to the Races?

Owners and trainers of racehorses have an important role to play in the success of their horses on the racecourse. But what about going to the racecourse to watch their horses compete? Can owners attend races and, if so, what are the rules? This article will explore the regulations around owners attending the races, how they can get involved, and what they can expect when they arrive.

Who is an Owner?

The first step in understanding the rules around owners attending the races is to understand who exactly is considered an “owner.” According to the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) an owner is any person who has a beneficial interest in the ownership of a horse. This could include the outright owner of a horse, a part-owner, a breeder, a syndicate member, or a person with a share in a horse-racing club.

Can Owners Attend Races?

The short answer is yes, owners are allowed to attend races. But, there are specific rules and regulations that owners must follow in order to ensure their safety and the safety of other racegoers. Owners must apply for an Owners and Trainers badge from the racecourse in order to gain access to the racecourse. The badge must be worn at all times and can be obtained from the Racecourse Office or the Racecourse Secretary.

What Rules do Owners Have to Follow?

Owners attending the races must adhere to the same rules as all other racegoers. This includes:

• Dress Code: The dress code for owners and trainers is smart and tidy. This means no jeans, trainers, or t-shirts. Jacket and tie is preferred.
• Alcohol: Alcohol should be consumed in moderation and in line with local laws.
• Behaviour: Owners should behave in a respectful manner and refrain from shouting, swearing, or otherwise causing a disturbance.
• Photography: Photography is not permitted on the racecourse, except in designated areas.

What Facilities are Available to Owners?

The majority of racecourses offer some form of facilities for owners. These may include a lounge or bar area, where owners can enjoy a meal or a drink, and an Owners & Trainers area, where owners can meet and catch up with one another. Many racecourses also offer a range of other services, such as betting facilities and racecard information.

What Can Owners Expect on Race Day?

On race day, owners can expect to have a great time. Owners will be able to watch their horses compete from the Owners & Trainers area, as well as interact with other owners. The atmosphere on the racecourse is usually electric and the majority of owners will find it a thrilling experience.

Is There a Cost for Owners?

Yes, owners will have to pay to attend the races. The cost of admission varies depending on the racecourse and the type of race being held. Most racecourses also offer discounts for additional tickets, so owners can bring friends and family along to watch the races with them.

What is the Difference Between an Owner and a Trainer?

The main difference between an owner and a trainer is that an owner is responsible for the ownership of the horse, while the trainer is responsible for the day-to-day care and training of the horse. The owner will be responsible for making decisions about the horse’s racing career, while the trainer will be responsible for the horse’s day-to-day training and maintenance.

What are the Benefits of Being an Owner?

There are many benefits to being an owner, including the opportunity to be part of the exciting world of horse racing, the chance to build relationships with other owners, and the potential financial rewards of successful horses. Additionally, owners can feel a sense of pride and satisfaction in seeing their horse succeed on the racecourse.

What is a Syndicate?

A syndicate is a group of people who own a horse together. Syndicates are common in horse racing and can be a great way for owners to get involved in the sport without having to make a large financial investment. Syndicates also allow owners to share in the costs and rewards of owning a horse.

Conclusion

Owners play an important role in the success of their horses on the racecourse. The regulations around owners attending races are designed to ensure their safety and the safety of other racegoers. Owners can attend races by applying for an Owners and Trainers badge, and they can expect to have a great time, with the potential for financial rewards and a sense of pride in seeing their horse succeed.