Little did Stephen Currie know taking a Discover Newmarket guided tour would lead to him living his dream of owning a racehorse – well a part of one at least.
Steve and his wife Jackie from Chiddingfold in Surrey, booked onto one of tour specialists, Discover Newmarket’s, half day, Newmarket Experience guided tours which had been recommended by their son. Being keen racegoers, they were looking forward to the visit which included a tour of the hallowed Newmarket gallops, the National Stud and a behind the scenes tour of racehorse trainer Rae Guest’s yard at Chestnut Tree Stables on Hamilton Road.
Steve was shown around the stables by Linda Murphy, Rae’s racing secretary, and was instantly impressed by the friendliness and feel of the whole yard. He was surprised at how much he was able to see and how much he learned.
Steve had toyed with becoming a racehorse owner before, but didn’t want to go it alone and wasn’t keen on being just a number in a large syndicate. So, the idea was very much left as a daydream. However, having the opportunity to speak to someone knowledgeable on the ground and find out exactly how syndicates work without any pressure or obligation was a game changer for Steve.
A few weeks later, Steve had bought into a three-horse syndicate with racehorse trainer Rae Guest and his amazing journey began.
Horseracing syndicates vary in price and size but by buying into three horses, purchased as yearlings, these syndicates spread the risk, give three times the interest and of course three times the chance of success while retaining an intimate feel. Steve came along to Tattersalls Yearling Sales in October 2021 with Rae and some of the other syndicate members to see the purchase process and he was involved right from the start of his ownership journey.
As part of the package, visits to Chestnut Tree Stables are plentiful (some organised and some ad hoc) and owners are kept fully informed on their horses’ progress through regular updates. They have access to the trainer and racing secretary at any time and the syndicates have a real sense of community.
It was in May this year that the aptly named Lady Jane Grey made her debut at Lingfield (Lady Jane Cecil is Rae Guest’s sister and a fellow syndicate member – and the filly’s sire is Havana Grey). Steve met the jockey in the parade ring and saw what goes on just before a race, an experience in itself. Despite a bad draw and being distracted by an errant runner broncing next to her, Lady Jane Grey flew home in front, and Steve was living his dream of owning a winning racehorse.
He said: “I can’t describe the feeling that I had seeing my horse win. Whilst my cautious £2.00 bet didn’t give much of a return, the champagne certainly flowed that evening! We’ve made some great friends and learnt so much about this extraordinary industry. Never would I have believed that being part of a syndicate would allow me to be so involved and provide me with a whole new interest that has captivated both myself and all my family. Even my neighbour was excited for us although I had initially felt bad taking his £5 bet. Needless to say, he was delighted with his 12/1 winnings.”
Rae Guest said: “It is great to welcome people so keen and enthusiastic as Steve and Jackie to their first racehorse ownership experience, and even better to reward them with some success straightaway! We are a small, friendly team and are always happy to host Discover Newmarket’s guided tours which allow the general public to visit racing yards and learn more about what goes on behind the scenes from their knowledgeable guides. Plus, if you are looking to buy into a syndicate, then the tours provide the perfect opportunity to discreetly find out more with no obligation. Joining in is easier and more fun than people think and the door is always open.”
Discover Newmarket works with a number of Newmarket trainers and provides behind the scenes tours throughout the year. Their half day Newmarket Experience (£65 pp) or Ultimate Newmarket Experience (£95) packages provides a fascinating insight into the home of horseracing. They run a wide range of experiences which also include Race Day Tours along with visits to the Jockey Club Rooms, National Stud, Tattersalls and the National Horseracing Museum. Private and groups can also be accommodated.
21/11/2023
Six ways to get in the Christmas spirit
It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas, especially in Newmarket where we’ve been busy planning festive fun for everyone.
14/11/2023
Five of the tastiest afternoon teas
On a brisk autumn day, there are few better ways to get cosy than with a piping hot cup of tea.
07/11/2023
We are hiring!
THIS POSITION HAS NOW CLOSED.
Job Opportunity: Marketing Executive
Discover Newmarket is the official tourism body for Newmarket and the surrounding area.
06/11/2023
Everyone’s welcome in Newmarket
We’re working hard to make Newmarket a more inclusive and accessible place – we want everyone to have a fantastic time in the home of horseracing.
02/11/2023
Newmarket Christmas Lights Switch On!
Join us for this year’s ‘Christmas Lights Switch On’ on Friday 17th November, with the fun starting at 4.30pm!
20/10/2023
Dine out on sausages all week with our Sausage Safari!
In celebration of Newmarket’s annual Sausage Festival on Saturday 4th November, some of our wonderful cafes and restaurants will be serving specially created sausage dishes on their menus during the preceding week (28th October to 4th November).
16/10/2023
Discover Newmarket is recruiting!
PLEASE NOTE THIS POSITION HAS NOW CLOSED
Sales and Tours Co-ordinator
Discover Newmarket is the official tourism body for Newmarket and the surrounding area.
11/10/2023
The Annual Newmarket Sausage Festival is Back!
From royalty to the hard-working groom, sizzling Newmarket Sausages are every race-goer’s favourite, and to mark the long-tradition of this award-winning street food, the annual Newmarket Sausage Festival returns for the second year on Saturday 4 November.