Question 1

What is the role of a horse trainer?

Accepted Answer

The primary role of Jason, as a trainer, is to prepare the horse and select the races they have the best chance of winning.   Jason diligently supervises all aspects of the horse’s care and will carefully monitor the progress of their career through the breaking-in process, spelling, fitness and conditioning in the racing stable. 
Jason regularly communicates with owners to update them on their horse's development. In
addition, he holds himself to an “honesty policy” in that he has a responsibility to advise you when it may be time to sell or retire your horse. 
Having the best equine professionals to support the stable is also key to the integrity of Bridgman Racing. Jason works with top veterinarians, farriers and dentists to give his horses high quality care.

Question 2

How much does it cost to enjoy horse ownership?

Accepted Answer

Bridgman Racing offer affordable options.   Ownership doesn't require you to take out a second mortgage. Gone are the days when owning a horse was reserved for the rich and famous. There are options to suit all budgets and goals so that almost anyone can enjoy the thrill of ownership.   Racing is full of “rags to riches” stories. Champion sprinter Buffering was a $22,000 purchase as a yearling and earned his connections more than $7.2 million. Champions are the exception, but a horse doesn't have to reach superstar status to make a return on their initial price tag with prize money in Australia at an all-time high.   Bridgman Racing encourage you to work out what you are happy to put into ownership and Jason will then assist you with options based on your budget.

Question 3

Are there any extra costs in owning a horse?

Accepted Answer

A daily training rate includes the day to day cost of exercise, feed and care for the horse.
Extra costs can include insurance, farrier, veterinary care and supply, trial/race fees, transportation and physiotherapy.

Question 4

What is the relationship Bridgman Racing has with its Owners?

Accepted Answer

We keep our owners well informed throughout every stage of a horse’s racing career. We have an open door policy and encourage our owners to visit or call anytime.   It takes time to nurture and develop horses as well as plenty of patience. By being completely transparent with our owners, we hope that they become part of the team and thus their experience with us more satisfying.

Question 5

How do I obtain a horse?

Accepted Answer

Horses can be purchased either privately or through public auction, raced or un-raced.
Jason regularly attends sales and can be approached to purchase a horse for you. Each season we also have a selection of yearlings in which you can purchase a share according to your interest.   Prospective owners are welcome to get in touch with Jason via phone or email any time and he will assist you free of charge and with no obligation.

Question 6

What do Bridgman Racing look for in a racehorse?

Accepted Answer

Jason has an eye for an athletic physique with excellent conformation and a professional
disposition. Pedigree is also a key factor in selecting a horse. With his 20+ years of experience around the world, he is familiar with many successful racing families and the qualities that are key to that success.   When a client entrusts Jason with purchasing a horse for them, he is always mindful to get the best possible prospect for their budget.

Question 7

Is it better to own a Female or Male horse?

Accepted Answer

We are often asked which sex is better to race; male or female? 
The truth is, it doesn't really matter. Let's break it down: The Case for Fillies
Fillies have an advantage in that they can race against their own sex or in open company. In other words- they have more opportunities to compete.   Female are allowed a weight concession in open races. Furthermore, they are often more affordable to purchase as yearlings and have residual value as a broodmare when they retire.   The Case for Colts
Colts with the right pedigree have stallion potential if they can perform at a high level.
Colts are also valued for racing in Asia where Fillies are seldom raced. This increases their value as un-raced prospects and opens them to resale, if desired.

Question 8

Names & Racing Colours

Accepted Answer

Choosing a name and racing colours for your horse is one of the most exciting parts of ownership!   What’s in a name?
A race name (or registered name) often pays homage to breeding, a significant event or person in the owners life, or the owner’s sense of humour. For example, a lot of thought went into the naming of Caulfield Cup winner Elvstroem who is by Danehill out of Circles Of Gold who was out of Olympic Aim. Owner Frank Tagg wanted something to reflect both sire and dam so he asked the Danish ambassador who was his country’s most famous Olympian. He was told it was sailor Paul Elvstrom, a four-time gold medallist.   For Racing Australia’s policy on naming your horse, please visit Racing Australia.    Each horse can have up to 50 individual registered owners. If you have purchased a share in a syndicated horse, the naming and registration process is usually taken care of by the syndicator or trainer. In the case that you buy a horse that is already named and registered, you will have to complete a Transfer Of Ownership form, rather than a Registration form.   Racing Colours
Depending on your preference, you can either design and register a set of your own colours (silks) or you can opt to race in your trainer’s colours. Syndicators often have their own set of silks which their horses race in – this is often the fairest option when multiple owners are involved.

Question 9

What type of ownership options are there?

Accepted Answer

First, it's vital to understand what type of ownership works for you. Do you want to own 100% of one horse or 5% in several horses? Do you enjoy racing with friends and family, or are you a keen race-goer or punter?   Deciding how much involvement you wish to have in ownership differs for each person and each budget. We've broken down the four types of recognised ownership options in Australia for you.   Sole Ownership
As a sole owner, you own the horse outright. That means you are entitled to name your horse, choose its racing colours, and 100% of the prize money your horse earns. On the flip side, you will are liable for all costs.   Partnership
Partnerships have the same perks of sole ownership, but costs are shared. Partnerships are
popular for families and friends who agree on a trainer, racing colours and the name of the horse. One person will need to be designated as the managing part-owner that acts as liaison and helps manage the horse with the trainer. Partnerships are a great way to enjoy the thrill of ownership with others.   Syndicate
A syndicate is often the most cost-effective way of entering racehorse ownership. A licensed
syndicator sells shares in horses they own, often a 5% or 10%. Syndicators must have an
Australian Financial Services License or be an “approved promoter,” which means they use
somebody else’s licence. Syndication is seen as a stress-free way of racehorse ownership because the syndicator takes care of all the paperwork and the cost of ownership is relatively inexpensive.The trade-off is less say in naming, deciding on racing silks or a trainer.   Lease
Leasing a horse has advantages. Firstly, there is no up-front purchase of the horse. Most leases are made available by breeders who wish to keep a horse to breed from at a later date and are happy for others to enjoy the benefits of ownership. You pay the training fees, enjoy ownership, and at the end of the horse’s career, they are returned to the owner.

Question 10

What's a Day in the Life of Bridgman Racing look like?

Accepted Answer

Jason starts the day at 3:30 am and with a cup of coffee in hand, the barn lights flick on at 4 am. The team is exercised, washed, cooled down, rugged up and fed by 9 am.   After training, we usually get a visit from one or more of our support professionals (vet, farrier, dentist, physio) while Jason is in the office making race entries, booking jockeys, assessing race fields and studying the race calendar for the best possible placement of our runners. In the afternoons, if they are not racing, the horses get out for a walk and/or swim and pick of grass.   At this time, it's all about getting them out of their boxes and keeping them happy and stimulated. By 4pm, the horses are fed and tucked in for the night. Jason and the staff get to know all the horses well - their personalities, quirks, and favourite treats. At Bridgman Racing, the emphasis is always on keeping the horses fit, happy and healthy.

Question 11

Where are Bridgman Racing Located?

Accepted Answer

Bridgman Racing are located at Pakenham Racecourse, or Racing.com Park. Our horses are in a brand new barn with all the necessary amenities. Pakenham is a new facility with state of the art design that hosts over 50 race meetings annually. Conveniently located south east of Melbourne, there are 30 racecourses within a four hour drive. In addition to sand, grass and poly track training surfaces, we have access to a water walker, treadmills, and swimming pool to keep our horses fit, healthy and stimulated.

Question 12

How easy is it to get involved in racehorse ownership?

Accepted Answer

Whether you want to have some fun at the races with friends by investing in a small share, or you want to win the Melbourne Cup- Jason can help. Simply call him on 0428 670 300 or send him an email to jason@bridgmanracing.com We will issue a statement of costs involved from purchase to ongoing training. Jason is easy to talk to and makes sure everything is transparent. We’d love to have you on the team!

Question 13

What is the Ownership Experience like?

Accepted Answer

Ownership is a journey, hopefully with a lot of fun and moments of great pride along the way. Racehorse ownership is similar to buying a lottery ticket- you take a risk and invest, hoping for a positive outcome, but knowing there is no guarantee. The best part is the emotional investment, an aspect that isn't fully appreciated until you experience the exhilaration of winning.   Ownership means that come race day, you as an owner feel as much a part of the experience as the trainer or jockey on the day. The satisfaction and thrill of competition are latent in everyone, and you get to feel this through the performance of your horse. It is a very satisfying pastime to be involved in.

THE REWARD

"For me, the reward is the sense of joy and fulfilment you give to your owners and supporters. It is validation of hard work".

GETTING STARTED

THE HORSE

THE RACES

THE REWARDS

GALLERY