FAQs
Q: How do your training costs compare to other trainers?
A: Our prices are incredibly competitive and at the same time we provide a level of individual care and attention that we believe sets us apart from many bigger operations
Q: Will I be able to make the decisions on where and when my racehorse runs?
A: You can have as much involvement in making these decisions as you want to, and we will always consult you before making entries or declarations for your horse.
Q: Do you train Flat horses?
A: We have trained many flat racehorses over the years and won many races, but we are now focusing mainly on training jump racehorses as we believe that is the area where we will achieve the greatest success. That’s not to say we won’t train a Flat racer, and some horses make great dual purpose horses (running on the Flat and Jump) we just are very keen to train good quality jump horses.
Q: How can I own a Cheltenham Festival winner?
A: We would love to train a Cheltenham Festival winner as that is the ultimate prize in jump racing. There are many owners spending huge amounts of money, some in excess of £500,000 for the best bred jump horses, so it is tough to compete at that level, but there are plenty of Festival winners that cost between £20,000 and £50,000, and we are more than capable of training racehorses to win decent races, so hopefully that Festival winner will come.
Q: How often am I allowed to come and see my racehorse in the yard?
A: We don’t give owners set times or days when they can come and see their horses, we pride ourselves in being open and welcoming to all our owners, so just give us a call to let us know you’re coming and head on down
Q: What happens to my horse when his racing career comes to an end?
A: We always look to find new homes and careers for racehorses in our care, and keep track on how they are getting on when they leave us. Our training ethos means that our horses are well schooled which gives them the best start possible for a range of new careers. Our horses have gone on to do polo, eventing, show-jumping, hacking, riding schools, etc.
Q: What is a handicap?
A handicap is a race where each horse carries a specific weight relating to the rating (handicap mark) that the horse has been given based on their previous performances. The handicapper who awards the horse’s rating wants to try and make the most level playing field, so that each horse in a handicap race has an equal chance.
Q: How do I choose my own racing colours?
A: There is a range of colours and patterns that you are allowed to choose from to create your personal racing colours. It’s very exciting. You can visit the BHA or Weatherbys websites to see what colours are available. Once you have made your choice and created your colours you can have the silks made up at Allertons.
Q: If I own a racehorse for business purposes can I bring clients down to the yard?
A: Yes of course. A racehorse can be a fantastic business promotion and engagement vehicle. You can name a racehorse after a company, or design silks in the company colours. You can also invite clients down to the yard and to the races. Andy is also an accomplished caterer and event organiser, so can provide high quality and competitive quotes for events at the yard.
Q: How do I buy a racehorse?
A: We will be happy to help you find the right racehorse as there are various types of horse you can look to buy, and places to find them. We have excellent contacts in Ireland where many good horses are found, or you can look to buy a horse at the many sales that take place in the UK. We can assist you all the way, or you can use a respected bloodstock adviser.
Q: Can I come and work at the yard?
A: Give us a call or email and we can discuss what you are looking for.