Introducing potential racehorse owners to the sport and simply allowing fans to experience the excitement of horse ownership had long been a challenge. The Canterbury Racing Club began in 2009 with the intention of overcoming those obstacles in a manner that would allow people to learn about the sport in an inexpensive manner with the hopes that some of the club members might go on to start partnerships or run a stable of their own. And if not that, then maybe members would just treat their friends and family to a day at the races and help grow the fan base.
Those modest goals were accomplished over the years as the club membership grew from the initial year with about 60 members to nearly 200 at the high water mark. Some club members did branch off to form the Canterbury Alumni Club, others went out on their own, and new partnerships were formed. Many people were introduced to racing as well. Now several other racetracks around the country have started racing clubs as well and are drawing new fans and new owners to racing.
The 2017 Canterbury Racing Club is enrolling new members through the end of February. Find more information and the 2017 registration form on the Canterbury Racing Club blog .
Total cost for this experience is $250. The club will own at least one horse throughout the year. Club members receive admission to Canterbury Park for the season as well as, if available, a special location to watch when club horses run, paddock access and – with luck – access to the Winners’ Circle. Members will also have an opportunity to visit the backstretch where the horses reside.
You get to follow YOUR horse(s) during the year both at the track and through the interactive club blog.
This is a not for profit venture, but remaining club funds are returned to members at year end. The racing club is intended as an educational experience to familiarize people with the ins and outs of race horse ownership and pull back the curtain, if you will, and de-mystify the sport.
Plus it is cool to be able to tell your friends that you own a racehorse!
Again, membership is open until the end of the month at which time the club’s trainers will attempt to acquire a horse or two. Get the info HERE.
