GET INVOLVED
Should I get into ownership? Is it right for me? What will I get out of it?
These are big and important questions as you contemplate whether ownership is right for you.
Well, ask yourself this:
Do you love being a part of something meaningful? Something with ups and downs that can produce amazing rewards, challenges and opportunities, which you can drive or share with your friends?
If so, you’ve very likely come to the right place. Let’s learn more about trots ownership and whether it’s right for you. There are many ways to experience owning a harness racing horse.
First things first....
WHICH PATHWAY’S RIGHT FOR ME?
As a sole owner you’re entitled to the entire owners’ prize if your horse places or wins. You’re also responsible for the expenses associated with the horse, such as training fees, transport, farrier and veterinary costs. You can also create your own legacy by naming the horse and having their driver race in your personal silks.
A part-owner has the same privileges as a sole owner, however, you get to share costs as well as the rewards. Why not enjoy the moment with a close friend or family member?
Buying a share in a syndicate horse can be a cost-effective way to own a percentage of a racehorse, with shares starting from as little as $10 a week! Syndication allows you to invest in a racehorse and share the costs and potential rewards of ownership. As a member of a syndication, you will be part of a team that manages the horse’s racing schedule and financial decisions. Syndication members can attend races, visit the stables and experience being part of the exciting world of harness racing. It’s a great way to meet new people and enjoy all aspects of racing.
Leasing a horse can reduce your buy-in costs and can be a more economical way to get started. A lease involves entering into an agreement with the horse’s owner, where you typically pay a fee to race the horse for a specified period while the owner retains ownership.
Click here to examine the next steps in your ownership journey.
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Racing This Week
| SHEPPARTON (N) | Tuesday, Jul 15 |
| BENDIGO (N) | Wednesday, Jul 16 |
| KILMORE (N) | Thursday, Jul 17 |
| MILDURA (D) | Friday, Jul 18 |
| GEELONG (N) | Friday, Jul 18 |
| MELTON (N) | Saturday, Jul 19 |
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Visit the Victorian trainers’ directory for a list of licensed trainers. It is important to do your research and find a trainer who is suited for your needs.
Do you have a HarnessWeb account? No? Well, what are you waiting for! HarnessWeb is an incredible online portal that allows you to effortlessly make online transfers of ownership, manage lease agreements and keep track of your horse's racing and trialling schedules. Don't miss out on this opportunity! Create your own personal account today.
The Victorian Harness Racing Club, 'the Heart of Harness Racing', welcomes you to join amid a prestigious new era for the VHRC. Watch your horse take on the best of metropolitan racing in exclusive style from The Club Lounge at Melton and benefit from up to $900,000 worth of bonuses on offer for trainers and owners who are VHRC members.
OWNER BENEFITS
Harness Racing Victoria prides itself on governing the best harness racing jurisdiction in Australasia. It has the most prizemoney, most races, most clubs and most loyal fans and supporters. That makes it the best place to get involved in ownership, but, importantly, it also has the best futurities race series and bonus schemes.
Futurities
Let’s start with the futurity schemes, which reward locally bred pacers and trotters.
• Vicbred is a nation-leading breeding scheme that provides incentives and rewards to breeders and owners of racehorses. It has different levels of eligibility and benefits based on the horse’s lineage and where it was born as well as September’s amazing Vicbred Super Series.
• Breeders Crown is a prestigious racing series in November that brings together the best horses in their divisions. Horses compete in different categories based on their age and gender, such as two-year olds, three-year olds and older horses. Breeders Crown showcases top-level competition and is highly regarded by both horse racing enthusiasts and industry professionals.
• Need for Speed is for three-year-old trotters and consists of heats and finals, with the latter part of a big Melton celebration that spotlights our terrific Team Teal, a fundraiser to support the fight against ovarian cancer. The top placed horses in the heats qualify for the finals, with a consolation race for each division.
For more information on all the above Futurity Schemes, please visit the Breeders Barn.
Definitions and Payments
If your mare is served by a stallion who is standing in Victoria, South Australia or Tasmania during the relevant breeding season either of these two options can apply:
- If your foal is notified to Victoria (HRV) it will automatically be nominated for Vicbred
- If your foal is notified outside of Victoria (not to HRV) you will need to lodge the Vicbred Eligibility breeding via Online (Harnessweb) or via email to info@hrv.org.au. Information on process can be found by clicking here.
You’ll be charged $220 which is the price of a foal notification in Victoria. Coupons must be received by HRV no later than the 1st of May immediately following your foal’s birth.
Definition
A ‘Vicbred stallion’ is a stallion that is physically standing in Victoria, South Australia or Tasmania during the relevant breeding season.
A stallion for which you have imported semen – even if purchased through a Victorian, South Australian or Tasmanian stud – will not be considered as a Vicbred stallion.
If your mare is not served by a Vicbred Stallion, she must be inseminated in and foal in one of those states and her foal must be notified to HRV. The fee for this scenario varies as below:
- $220 for sires based elsewhere in Australia, Canada or Europe, and USA trotting stallions.
- $332 for USA based pacing stallions.
If your mare is not located in Victoria, South Australia or Tasmania and you don’t breed her to a sire based in one of those states, you are unable to make the resultant foal Vicbred eligible.
There are no yearling fees under the Vicbred program.
A 2YO age acceptance fee of $220 is due by the 1st of December (one month before your horse becomes a 2YO for racing purposes). At this point you may instead choose to pay a higher fee of $440 which will make your horse eligible for its 2YO, 3YO & 4YO seasons.
If you don’t choose to pay the $440 as a 2YO, you’ll need to pay $220 for each age acceptance thereafter ($660 total cost to be paid up as a 2YO, 3YO & 4YO).
If you don’t contact HRV prior to the 1st of December to accept (age or series) you’ll automatically be invoiced for the relevant $220 age acceptance fee. If you fail to pay the invoice by the 6th of March your horse will automatically be withdrawn and will no longer be Vicbred eligible for that season.
If for some reason you miss the deadline but still want your horse to be Vicbred eligible, the following late fee structure applies:
- Payments received from March 7th - June 7th: $440 for a single year acceptance
- Payments received from June 8th - September 8th: 3% of respective gaits final prizemoney for a single year acceptance
- Payments received from September 9th: 4% of respective gaits final prizemoney for a single year acceptance
Vicbred First Win Bonuses are only payable where payment has been received and processed and may not be backdated.
If you don’t choose to make your horse eligible for their 2YO season you can still pay up for their 3YO or 4YO seasons.
A horse bred anywhere in the world can be made eligible for the Breeders Crown, providing the relevant fee schedule is followed.
- Stallion Nominations - 1 October
- Foal Nominations - 1 August 2023 (starting with horses eligible for series 28)
- Yearling or Series Nominations - 1 August 2023
- Age Acceptances - 1 August 2023
Stallion Nominations
Studs are required to nominate their stallions for the Breeders Crown if they wish for foal owners to be eligible for reduced Foal Nomination fees.
- This nomination is due by 1 October of the foaling year and the relevant charges are invoiced to the stud the following year.
In any Breeders Crown Final, the 'Stallion Nominator' will receive 5% of the prizemoney won by any horse for which they have paid the relevant stallion nomination.
The following fee structure applies:
For stallions registered and standing in Australia or New Zealand for the relevant season (23/24 season):
- a. For live foals born in Australia = $A24.20 (includes GST) for each live foal
- b. For live foals born in New Zealand = $A22 for each live foal
For stallions registered and standing in the Northern Hemisphere for the relevant season (23/24 season):
Pacing Stallions
- a. A pacing stallion who has 1-16 live foals = $A330 (includes GST) for each live foal
- b. A pacing stallion who has 17+ live foals = $A5,500 (includes GST) flat fee
Trotting Stallions
- a. A trotting stallion who has 1-27 live foals = $A198 (includes GST) for each live foal
- b. A trotting stallion who has 28+ live foals = $A5,500 (includes GST) flat fee
Foal Nominations
Foal nominations are due by 1 August 2023 for horses born from 1 September 2022 onwards.
The following fees apply:
- a. If the foal is by a Breeders Crown Eligible Stallion = $A38.50 (includes GST) per mare
- b. If the foal is by a non Breeders Crown Eligible Pacing Stallion = $A330 (includes GST) per mare
- c. If the foal is by a non Breeders Crown Eligible Trotting Stallion = $A198 (includes GST) per mare
After the 1st of August, late fees are will be applied. Contact HRV Futurities to confirm applicable fee.
Yearling or Series Nominations
Yearling (or Series) nominations are due by 1 August 2023 when your horse is a yearling. You must nominate your horse to remain in the series.
- The fee to nominate one yearling is $A253.
- You may elect at this stage to pay a Series Fee instead of a Yearling Fee.
- A Series Fee costs $A704 per horse and replaces the Yearling Fee ($A253), 2YO Age Acceptance Fee ($A451) & 3YO Age Acceptance Fees ($A451) - representing a saving of $A451.
Age Acceptances
Age Acceptances invoices are raised on 16th March 2023 and payment is due by 1st August 2023. These apply to 2YOs and 3YOs.
- If you paid a Series Fee as a yearling, then you do not need to pay any Age Acceptance Fees.
- If you did not pay a Series Fee as a yearling you will need to pay Age Acceptance Fees to remain eligible to compete in the Breeders Crown race series.
- An Age Acceptance Fee costs $A451 for one year.
- If you choose to not make your horse eligible for their 2YO season you can still pay up for their 3YO season.
Breeders Crown Graduate Races
- A horse will be eligible to contest these Breeders Crown Graduate Races providing a Breeders Crown Yearling Nomination or Series Nomination was paid as a yearling.
Eligibility for the series is based on futurity payments and will consist of Heats and Finals for each sex.
Foal Nomination Fee
Australian Foals - Nomination to be sent to HRV by 1st August 2023 ($88)
New Zealand Foals- Nomiantion to be sent to HRV or HRNZ by 1st August 2023 ($88AUD or $100NZ)
Yearling Nomination Fee
Yearling Nomination Fee ($220) to be sent to HRV by 1st August 2023.
Series Fee
Series Fee ($440). Series Fee will not be cancelled.
3yo Acceptance Fee
Due 1st August 2023. Horse will be withdrawn if payment not received by 15th August.
The Club Lounge
With a magnificent new owners & members facility known as The Club Lounge now open at Melton, there has never been a better time to become a member of the VHRC.
This stunning new room has a great look and feel and is the best room at the venue to watch harness racing from. With a magnificent bar facility and great views of the track, VHRC Members will enjoy the best seat in the house at the new Club Lounge Facility.
Members of the VHRC can access the magnificent new Club Lounge at every metropolitan meeting at Melton. If you love harness racing and are not a member of the VHRC, what are you waiting for - join today and enjoy the best seat in the house.
LIFE AFTER RACING
As important as the dynamic deeds that our beloved horses perform on the track are the long and happy lives, they enjoy post their racing careers.
THE HRV Hero program creates pathways and support for Harness Racing Victoria’s equine athletes into their lives beyond the track. Since 2015 the program has assisted standardbreds, regardless of their on-track deeds, transition to diverse careers and forever homes, including showing, trail riding, dressage and as companions. With the great support of the Victorian industry, HRV Hero has been able to raise the bar and ensure racehorses continue to flourish long after their final race is run.
It’s never too early to consider post-racing options for your horse; even before their racing career begins!
HRV Hero Show
SYNDICATION
Horse Racing Scheme
A horse racing scheme will generally be considered a managed investment scheme (MIS) by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). A horse racing scheme is when a promoter offers to sell or invites people to acquire an interest in an arrangement under which, a group of people agree to contribute money, in return for a share of prize money won by a racehorse.
Running an MIS, in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), can be a costly exercise as there is a requirement to hold an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL) prior to any offer of horse shares being made, along with several other compliance requirements.
ASIC has appointed Harness Racing Victoria as Lead Regulator of standardbred horse racing schemes in Victoria.
Harness Racing Victoria must approve any entity who intends to offer shares in a racehorse prior to such offers being published.
Registered Promoter Application Process
1. The entity must apply directly to ASIC for an AFSL or approach an AFSL holder (on Harness Racing Victoria’s Register of Promoters) to seek appointment as an Authorised Representative.
2. Following the granting of an AFSL by ASIC, the entity should then make an application to Harness Racing Victoria by completing the following, relevant forms:
- Application to be placed on HRV’s “Register of Promoters” as an Australian Financial Services Licensee
- Application by and AFS Licensee to appoint an Authorised Representative
3. The applicant will then be required to attend an interview, in-person.
4. If the applicant is approved, they are eligible to promote shares in standardbred racehorses in Victoria. However, prior to promoting any horse shares, Harness Racing Victoria must also approve a Product Disclosure Statement (PDS).
Product Disclosure Statement
A PDS is a disclosure document used in the financial services industry, which is provided to a potential client, prior to them making an investment. The PDS should disclose all the relevant information, such as the costs entailed in the scheme and the risks and benefits of investing, to ensure the potential client can make a fully informed decision prior to acquiring an interest.
A pro forma PDS is available below:
A PDS is only valid if it is approved by Harness Racing Victoria prior to any offer of an interest in a standardbred racehorse is made. An application for approval by Harness Racing Victoria can be made by submitting a PDS and completing the following Statutory Declaration:
Please note - that for your application to be reviewed and approved by Harness Racing Victoria, all supporting documentation should be provided at the time of lodgement.
*Note: Processing of applications will incur an administration fee to be advised to cover the expense of reviewing all submitted documentation.
NEWS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
a) Decide whether you want to be a sole owner, share it with friends (or friends-to-be) or be part of a syndicate.
b) Familiarise yourself with the different trainers and stables that are available to you in Victoria or locally to yourself. It is important you find a trainer that will meet your needs. You can find them in our Trainers Directory or by attending Race Meetings throughout Victoria. Or you can contact local harness racing clubs in your region and ask about trainers and stables available in the area.
Yes, these regulations aim to ensure the integrity of the sport and the welfare of the horses. HRV is responsible for overseeing the sport and enforcing the rules and regulations. Racing Information - Harness Racing Victoria (thetrots.com.au)
The cost of owning a harness racing horse can vary significantly depending on the horse’s age, pedigree, racing potential and current market conditions. Additional costs may include training fees, vet care, transport and stabling expenses. It’s recommended to consult with industry professionals or existing owners to get a better understanding of the potential costs involved.
Ongoing expenses can include training fees, vet expenses, feed and nutrition, farrier services (hoof care), insurance, stabling or agistment fees and transport costs for racing. These expenses can vary depending on the horse’s needs and the level of competition it participates in. Training fees in Victoria vary between $45-$90 per day, depending on what trainer you use. Find out more. (Trainers Directory - Harness Racing Victoria (thetrots.com.au))
a) Seek guidance from trainers, breeders or industry professionals who have experience in evaluating and selecting racehorses to make sure you find a horse who suits your requirements and has the potential to perform well in harness racing.
b) Industry professionals can help you select the right horses, considering factors such as pedigree and bloodline, confirmation and physical attributes, performance and racing history, and soundness history if purchasing an already started horse.
a) Once you have identified a horse you are interested in, negotiate the price, and complete the necessary paperwork to buy it and become an owner. (Participant Forms - Harness Racing Victoria (thetrots.com.au))
b) You and your trainer may often engage a veterinarian to perform a comprehensive health examination of the horse to ensure it is in good condition. https://www.thetrots.com.au/for-participants/forms/
c) Create a HarnessWeb login to track your horse’s journey from trials to races, and gain access to the necessary forms required as an owner. Welcome to HarnessWeb - HarnessWeb
a) Attend harness racing sales and auctions where horses are bought and sold. This is an opportunity to connect with trainers, breeders, owners and find potential horses to buy. The two main sales in Victoria are Nutrien Equine Standardbred (Yearling24 Sale Details – Nutrien Equine) sale on the 12-14 April and the APG Gold sale on the 4th of February (Australian Pacing Gold - Standardbred Yearling Sales Company (apgold.com.au))
b) Contact agents or search online on various trading platforms to find an older horse that is already competing. This presents a valuable opportunity to evaluate the horse’s racing pattern and ability prior to making a purchase.
In harness racing, a futurity refers to a type of race or series specifically designed for young horses. These races are restricted to horses of a certain age, typically two or three-year-olds, and offer substantial prize money or prestige for the participants. Futurities are significant events in the harness racing calendar because they not only promote the development of young horses but also attract attention from breeders, owners, trainers, and fans alike. Winning a futurity can greatly enhance a horse's reputation and increase its value for breeding or potential sales.
The concept of futurities is not unique to Harness Racing Victoria; it is a prevalent and well-established practice in harness racing across different regions and governing bodies. These races play an essential role in nurturing the future stars of the sport and ensuring its continued growth and competitiveness.
The types of races and events in harness racing can include
a) Pacing races, where horses move with a lateral gait known as pacing and both legs on the same side move forward together.
b) Trotting races, which involve horses moving with a diagonal gait, where the front left leg and the back right leg move forward together, followed by the front right leg and the back left leg.
c) Group races, which are prestigious races and offer higher prize money, attracting top-quality horses and trainers.
d) Various handicap races often based on the horse’s national rating (NR), age, sex or other race conditions that often level the playing field.
e) Feature races, which are major races that can carry significant price money and attract top horses.
f) Futurities, which are races specifically designed for young horses. These races are typically restricted to horses of a certain age group, providing an opportunity for them compete against their own age/gait/sex and to showcase their talent and potential.
Competition can vary depending on the horse’s age, fitness level and racing schedule. Harness racing horses typically race on a regular basis, with some participating in weekly races. The trainer, owners and the horses’ individual circumstances will determine the specific racing schedule.
Once a horse is no longer competitive or if you as the owner decide to end their racing careers they can be retired to a more leisurely life. It’s never too early to think about post-race life or the future wellbeing of your horse, even before their racing career begins! If you are struggling to rehome your horse, the HRV Hero team can guide you through options for your horse’s second career.
a) You can follow, engage and learn about harness racing in Victoria through our website thetrots.com.au, which includes our terrific TrotsVision broadcast channel. We are very lucky that TrotsVision broadcasts every Victorian trots race live and free as well as having extended, wall-to-wall coverage on Saturday nights. You can also watch your horse trial via thetrots.com.au’s trials network. See HRV’s website for more. (Harness Racing Victoria (thetrots.com.au))
b) You should also follow Harness Racing Victoria on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram so you can enjoy all the great trots moments and latest information.
CONTACT US
General Enquiries
- Address
- 400 Epsom Road
Flemington VIC 3031 - Postal Address
- PO Box 184 Moonee Ponds
Vic 3039 Australia - Phone
- 03 8378 0200
International +61 3 8378 0200 - Fax
- 03 9214 0699
- info@hrv.org.au
For Racing
- Phone
- 03 8378 0291
- Fax
- 03 9214 0695
- racing@hrv.org.au
For Registration and Futurities
- Phone
- 03 8378 0200
- Fax
- 03 9214 0699
- info@hrv.org.au
For Life After Racing
- Phone
- 0411 499 051
- hero@hrv.org.au
Stuart McCormick
Contact:
0409 688 826
stuart@racedayphotos.com.au
Locations:
Melton
Claire Weston
Contact:
0400 006 648
Locations:
Ararat
Ballarat
Bendigo
Cranbourne
Geelong
Hamilton
Horsham
Kilmore
Maryborough
Shepparton
Stawell
Swan Hill
Terang
Warragul
Yarra Valley
Peter Hibberd
Contact:
0411 171 202
Locations:
Birchip
Boort
Charlton
St Arnaud
Wedderburn
Jo Morrish
Contact:
0407 708 987
jo.morrish@bigpond.com
Locations:
Mildura
Ouyen
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