Thoroughbred Breeders Queensland Association and Racing Queensland are proud to announce the launch of a new initiative encouraging first-time owners to the racing industry.
The general public will have the opportunity to engage with trainers and syndicators at a forum on Sunday, March 19 at the Gold Coast Magic Millions Sales Complex from 1pm.
It's a unique opportunity to hear from a broad spectrum of industry participants about the experiences of racing, and change the misconception that it's too expensive for the average person.
"There has never been a better time to own a racehorse," said TBQA President, Basil Nolan.
"Prizemoney has never been stronger, racing itself and the quality of horse has never been as strong."
The Queensland Thoroughbred Incentive Scheme (QTIS) is one of the best schemes in the country; offering enormous bonus prizemoney, up to $10 million per year.
"Horses at the approaching March QTIS sale are affordable to everyone and can range from as little as $2,000 up," said Mr Nolan.
"You can walk away with a horse like Paradis Imperial; she was bought for just $9,000 last year and is trained in Rockhampton by Tony McMahon.
"Paradis Imperial has won the most 2YO races of any horse in Australia – and she's owned and trained in the country, not the big city!"
The forum will not only provide a chance to talk to a variety of trainers and syndicators, but to see first-hand how yearlings are inspected.
There is also a ringside dining table for any newcomers who attend the Sunday 19thforum and are interested in returning for the Monday/Tuesday sales.
"This gives them the exciting hands-on experience of the sales, while 'living it up' like Gai Waterhouse and other celebrities do," said Mr Nolan.
There will also be the chance to re-engage with the trainers or syndicators who purchase a yearling at the sale, with a special syndicators' marquee operational at the complex right across the sales period.
Participants can also go into the draw to win a VIP experience to the Doomben 10,000, including two nights accommodation at the Brisbane Novotel.
"Nothing compares to the thrill and enjoyment of racing your very own horse, and if you join with a group of friends it doesn't have to be an expensive hobby," said Mr Nolan.
"In fact, on a daily rate you can actually own a horse for less than the cost of a cup of coffee or schooner of beer."
This is an ideal time to get into racing, and if it's something you 'always dreamed about' this is the time to investigate a little further – you'll be pleasantly surprised.
TBQA Release
