What is a Racing Syndicate and How Does it Work?
If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a racehorse but assumed it was only for the ultra-wealthy, think again. Racing syndicates have opened the doors to racehorse ownership for a wider audience, allowing people to experience the thrill of being an owner without the full financial burden of sole ownership. But what exactly is a racing syndicate, how does it work, and could it be the right choice for you?
What Is a Syndicate in Horse Racing?
A racing syndicate is a group of individuals who come together to share ownership of a racehorse – or sometimes a team of horses. Rather than one person footing the entire bill, the costs of purchasing, training, and maintaining the horse are divided among the members. In return, each syndicate member owns a percentage of the horse and enjoys a share in the prize money, plus the full racehorse ownership experience: yard visits, race day access, and more.
Syndicates range from small private groups of friends to professionally run operations managing dozens of horses, like Pimlico Racing. What they all have in common is the ability to make racehorse ownership more affordable and social.
Who Are the Best Racing Syndicates in the UK and Ireland?
There are many high-quality racing syndicates across the UK and Ireland, catering to a range of budgets and goals. Some focus on flat racing, others on jumps and some, like Pimlico Racing, offer both.
Pimlico Racing is one of the most established syndicates in the UK and Ireland, standing out for our quality of horses and access to top-tier trainers. Our syndicates offer shares in carefully selected racehorses trained by some of the biggest names in the sport, including Willie Mullins, Henry de Bromhead, Gavin Cromwell, John McConnell, Paddy Twomey, James Owen and Ben Pauling.
With a focus on sourcing high-potential horses and offering owners a premium racing experience, Pimlico Racing has built a strong reputation among racing enthusiasts who want more than just a name in the racecard.
How Much Does a Horse Syndicate Cost?
The cost of joining a racing syndicate varies widely, depending on the quality of the horse, the number of shares available, and the training fees involved. Entry-level syndicates may offer shares for as little as £100, which can work for those just starting out or wanting to dip their toes in. However, these are often divided into as many as 5000 shares.
At the higher end, professionally managed syndicates like Pimlico Racing typically offer shares starting from £1,000 to £10,000+, depending on the horse’s purchase price, training location, and racing plans. These syndicates generally offer smaller group sizes, greater transparency, and access to better-quality horses and trainers.
Do Horse Syndicates Make Money?
Owning racehorses should primarily be seen as a leisure activity rather than a guaranteed investment. While horse syndicates can and do make money, it’s important to understand that racing is unpredictable, and profits are never guaranteed.
That said, syndicates offer a more sustainable model than sole ownership. With costs shared and expert management guiding horse selection and campaign planning, your chances of being involved in a winner – and possibly turning a profit – are certainly improved. Some horses may earn substantial prize money or increase in value, particularly if they’re sold on after early success on the track.
How Much Is It to Buy a Share in a Horse?
Buying a share in a racehorse can cost anywhere from £100 to over £10,000, depending on your ambitions and the syndicate. Typically, a 2.5% to 10% share gives you regular updates, race entries, access to the yard, and your cut of the prize money.
With Pimlico Racing, for example, shares are tailored to offer serious racing enthusiasts a balance of quality and value. Each share includes a defined percentage of prize money and resale proceeds, plus a full package of ownership benefits – from race day badges to individual yard visits and hospitality.
Which Trainers Should You Have a Syndicate Horse With?
Choosing the right trainer is key to maximising your horse’s potential. Syndicates that partner with top-level trainers not only improve their chances of success but also offer a premium ownership experience.
Pimlico Racing stands out in this regard, working with some of the most respected names in British and Irish racing:
- Willie Mullins – Ireland’s champion jumps trainer
- Henry de Bromhead – Dual Grand National and Gold Cup-winning trainer
- Gavin Cromwell – A master of both flat and jumps racing, with Group and Grade 1 success
- John McConnell – Renowned for placing horses and getting results in both codes
- Paddy Twomey – One of Ireland’s rising stars on the flat, with a superb strike rate
- James Owen – A talented dual-purpose trainer making waves in the UK
- Ben Pauling – Leading National Hunt trainer with a growing team of high-quality horses
In Summary
Racing syndicates are a fantastic way to enjoy the thrill of owning a racehorse without the significant outlay of sole ownership. With professionally run syndicates like Pimlico Racing, you get access to elite horses, top trainers, and a first-class ownership experience.
Whether you’re in it for the sport, the social side, or the dream of a big winner, there’s never been a better time to get involved in a racing syndicate.
