Costs
When considering ownership, there are a number of costs on top of the initial cost of the horse to take into account.
It's important to note that costs can vary greatly between the North and South Islands but as a guide, in most northern region (Waikato/Auckland) stables, training costs average $55 per day making monthly expenditures, before fees for starts and the like, in the $1600-$1800 range.
When your horse gets racing and wins, you need to bear in mind that your trainer will receive 10% of the stakes earned, while your jockey will receive 5% in addition to his or her $106 riding fee.
Below is a table of typical costs based on the purchase of a $40,000 yearling from the sales. These costs are indicative only and are based on the costs to owners based in the northern region.
Please note that these costs are based on the free racing model (i.e. no race entry fees required except for Group 1 and 2 races) which comes into effect on the 1st February 2007.
| Item | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Insurance - $40,000 @ 3.6% | $1,440 P.A. | $2,880 |
| Spelling (Pre Breaking In) - 34 weeks@ $15 per day | $3,570 | |
| Breaking In - 8 weeks @ $35 per day | $1,960 | |
| Pre training - 10 weeks @ $45 per day | $3,150 | |
| Full training - 48 weeks @ $55 per day | $18,480 | |
| Gear hire @ $20 per month | $280 | |
| Registration - Naming/colours etc | $400 | |
| Track Fees - 13 Months @ $87 per month | $1,131 | |
| Farrier Shoes | $1,200 | |
| Sundry Equipment - Rugs etc | $430 | |
| Transport - 4 Trials at eg Matamata | $1,000 | |
| 7 Races at eg Matamata | $2,000 | |
| Trial Fees - 4 Trials @ $30 incl. Jockeys fee | $120 | |
| Jockey - 7 Races @ $106 | $742 | |
| Veterinarian - 8 Visits @ $250 per visit (average) | $2,000 | |
| Total | $38,223 | |
| Total Per Annum | $19,111 |
For a syndicate of four people, racing this theoretical thoroughbred would cost each person $4777.85 per year ($91.80 per week), plus the capital price of the horse. The lease options increasingly available eliminate this component if desired.
For further details on just how easy it can be to become involved in thoroughbred racing, give New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing's Industry Marketing Co-ordinator, Jo Griffin, a call on 06 874 3387. You might be genuinely delighted you made the call, especially if your investment turns out even a fraction as special as the one made in Sunline.
