Where to source your horse is obviously one of the first decisions a new owner has to make. There are a few options to match almost any budget and below is a brief outline of where to start your search.
Trainer / Agent
The majority of owners source their horse with the help of their trainer. Many trainers have horses in their care for owners to purchase or lease. Alternatively, owners may employ a bloodstock agent to source a horse on their behalf.
If you are looking to get in touch with a bloodstock agent, please see here for more information.
Claiming Races
Claiming races offer the opportunity to purchase horses directly out of the race at the advertised set fee. All horses running in the race will be available for purchase after the race and the advertised price can never be exceeded. The horses will have proven form to base your decision on and offer owners a source of horses that are ready to run. More information can be found in our Claiming Races Section.
Leasing
Leasing allows an owner to enjoy the thrill of ownership without the initial expense of buying a racehorse. A lease is drawn up between the two parties, with the lessor (person who owns the horse) and lessee (the person who will race the horse) agreeing to the terms and conditions. More information can be found in our Leasing Section.
Public Auction Sales
In Ireland, Goffs, Tattersalls and Goresbridge auction houses provide opportunities throughout the year to purchase at any of their public sales. Anyone can attend these sales, even just as a spectator so it is well worth taking a day to see for yourself how each sale works. Attending with an experienced bloodstock agent or trainer makes the sales experience all the more worthwhile. For further information and links to the various sales, visit our Sales Section.