Well, I guess technically Preston is. I am just the +1. This year we chose to get our feet wet and joint the Emerald Racing Club that is put on through Emerald Downs, our local track. This is something we have talked about for a couple years now and will most likely lead to us co-owning others in the future.
ERC affords us a couple things. First, we have a small ownership percentage of a couple horses on the track. This does not mean we will make or get money back or that we have a controlling interest. This is an experience meant for people to get a taste of what it’s like to be involved in this industry. We get to learn and ask our trainer questions. We get to visit the horses. We get to access parts of the track that are for owners. Second, is our season pass. With the amount of time we spent at the track last year, joining the ERC pays for itself with just this perk alone practically. Third, this opens up a world where we can meet people and make connections and grow our presence in the tight-knit world of the racing industry.
So far we have 2 horses that have been purchased by the club. The first is a 3 year old chestnut filly names Onefineday (Kantharos x Dina Gold [Seeking the Gold]). At this point she has had 10 starts and 2 first and 1 second and 1 third place finishes. She seems to be a shorter distance sprinter. She has a sweet demeanor and loves to be adored by her public.
Our second horse was claimed at Turf Paradise and he is a 3 year old bay gelding name Tengo Sed (Stay Thirsty x Maggie’s Secret [ Sea of Secrets]). He has finished 1st in his last two starts and is overall just a goofy gelding. We believe he has adopted Preston as his new best friend.
Now it is very likely that these horses will be claimed and the club will buy new horses. We are very much looking forward to this journey and loving any of the other equines we get in the club this year. We are looking forward to learning and making connections around the track and generally having a really fun summer.
Happy Racing!
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