Feature HORSE WORLD
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Ever fancied owning a top-level competition horse, without the astronomical costs? Then the world of syndication could be for you
Words: Tilly Berendt.
Photos: Hannah Cole, © FEI/Libby Law Photography
You’ll have seen it on the big screen through Dream Horse, and increasingly popping up on your favourite competition rider’s social media feeds, but what exactly is a syndicate? “People always ask me this,” says Jack Pryor, founder of the Event Horse Owners Syndicate (EHOS). “Anyone who’s into racing, though, knows exactly what we’re doing – and they love it.”
Syndication is where a group of individuals gather together to buy a share in a promising horse, helping to cover the cost of buying him, along with his annual maintenance fees. Plus, with options for everyone, ownership can be rewarding, sociable and fun. So, could it be for you?
Buy in – on a budget
Over recent years, microsyndicates have gained popularity across the racing world. They follow the same premise as a full syndicate, whereby a group of enthusiasts club together to buy ownership of a horse, but instead fans pay a smaller set fee and gain a number of exclusive perks in return – from welcome packs and yard tours to discounted racing passes.