The costs of keeping a horse in training are not only subject to
regional variations, but also from trainer to trainer.
Here are the costs at Dodlands Steading for the 2023-24 season.
Note - VAT is not included in the costs below.
In training - per week
| Weekly training fee |
£260 |
| Blacksmith (on average) |
£30 |
| Vet (again on average) |
£20 |
At the races - per race
| Race entry |
£80 |
| Transport to course/lad (on average) |
£350 (£1.20p per mile, £50 lead up) |
| Jockey Fee |
£215 |
Out of training - per week
Racing Admin
| Ownership admin (annual approx.) |
£300 |
| ROA membership |
£260 |
Example of cost
As an example, in a 52 week year, a horse may be in training for 42
weeks with 10 weeks at grass.
Let's assume 5 races.
Annual cost
| In Training |
£13,020 |
| At the races |
£3,225 |
| Out of training |
£200 |
| Racing Admin |
£560 |
Total
| Annually |
£17,005 |
| Monthly |
£1,417 |
| Weekly |
£327 |
Of course, there is the possibility of prize money, although probably
best to budget on the assumption of none – then treat any returns as a
very pleasant surprise!
