I get tips and emails all the time from prospecting thoroughbred owners wanting to know how to begin the entire ownership process. One important issue is costs. Knowing how much a racehorse costs, will help you determine if thoroughbred ownership is right for you.
I found this great article on the thoroughbred Owners and Breeders website.
Costs: Racehorses in Training
How much does it cost to keep a racehorse in training? The easy answer is, “It depends.” It depends on where you race, who your trainer is, the vet and farrier you use and the soundness of your horse. Costs are set by what the market will bear and everything (except taxes, jockey fees and worker’s compensation premiums) is negotiable.
The trainer’s day rate is the major expense. Day rates can be as little as $25 at a small track to as much as $120+ at a major track. It all depends on the locale and the trainer’s “win percentage.”
Not included in the trainer’s day rate are veterinary and farrier fees. Veterinary fees vary as much as day rates and are dependent upon your trainer’s habits and the health of your horse. For routine veterinary care, the cost can be as low as less than $100 per month to as much as 50% or more of your monthly training bill. It all depends.
