Harness racing is an exciting sport that has been around since the mid-1800s. The horses involved in harness racing are specially bred, trained and conditioned to be able to compete in the sport. Like any other horse, the cost to buy or lease a harness race horse is an important factor to consider before investing in the sport.
What is Harness Racing?
Harness racing is a form of competitive horse racing in which the horses pull two-wheeled carts known as sulky or bikes. The carts are usually pulled by a horse wearing a harness, and the driver is mounted on the bike. The sport has a long history, with the first official race being held in 1820 in the United States.
Cost of a Harness Race Horse
The cost of a harness race horse can vary greatly, depending on the age, breed, and training of the horse. Generally speaking, a standard harness race horse will cost anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000. This cost can increase if the horse is a proven winner, or if the horse is from a top breeding line.
Factors Affecting Cost
The cost of a harness race horse is affected by several factors, including:
- Age – Younger horses are typically less expensive than older horses, although this isn’t always the case.
- Breed – Certain breeds are more expensive than others, such as Standardbreds, which are the most common breed used in harness racing.
- Training – A well-trained harness race horse will cost more money than an untrained horse.
- Performance – A proven winning horse will cost more than an unproven horse.
- Pedigree – Horses with a strong pedigree will typically be more expensive.
Cost of Leasing a Harness Race Horse
In addition to purchasing a harness race horse, you can also lease one. Leasing a horse typically involves paying a monthly fee to the owner of the horse, and the fee can vary greatly depending on the age, breed, and training of the horse. Generally speaking, the cost of leasing a harness race horse is usually around $1,000 to $2,000 per month.
Cost of Racing a Harness Race Horse
In addition to purchasing or leasing a harness race horse, there are also costs associated with racing the horse. These costs include entry fees, training fees, jockey fees, and other related expenses. Generally speaking, the cost of racing a harness race horse can range from $500 to $1,500 per race.
Cost of Feeding and Caring for a Harness Race Horse
In addition to the cost of purchasing or leasing a harness race horse, there are also costs associated with feeding and caring for the horse. These costs can include hay, grain, veterinary visits, and farrier visits. Generally speaking, the cost of feeding and caring for a harness race horse can range from $100 to $500 per month.
What is the Average Cost of a Harness Race Horse?
The average cost of a harness race horse is difficult to determine, as there are so many variables that can affect the cost. However, the average cost of a harness race horse is usually around $10,000 to $15,000. This cost can increase depending on the age, breed, and training of the horse, as well as the cost of racing and caring for the horse.
Where to Find a Harness Race Horse
There are several different places to find a harness race horse, including:
- Horse auctions
- Online horse marketplaces
- Harness racing stables
- Horse breeders
Conclusion
The cost of a harness race horse can vary greatly, depending on the age, breed, and training of the horse, as well as the cost of racing and caring for the horse. Generally speaking, the cost of a standard harness race horse is usually around $5,000 to $20,000, and the cost of leasing a harness race horse is usually around $1,000 to $2,000 per month. The cost of racing a harness race horse can range from $500 to $1,500 per race, and the cost of feeding and caring for the horse can range from $100 to $500 per month. The average cost of a harness race horse is usually around $10,000 to $15,000. There are several different places to find a harness race horse, including horse auctions, online horse marketplaces, harness racing stables, and horse breeders.