Railbird 2004–2019

Owners/Owning Archive

Filling Time

“You know, one day I bought the horse [in training] and another day I saw this beautiful land in Ocala, these beautiful horses, and I couldn’t get it out of my head,” NHL owner Alan Cohen tells Dave Joseph at the Sun-Sentinel. With his Panthers team spread out across America and Europe waiting for an agreement that will end the lockout, Cohen is keeping busy with racehorses, recently spending almost $2 million on nine mares in foal to top stallions. No plans for the babies yet; Cohen and his trainer are discussing options.

Posted in Owners/Owning on November 28, 2004

Like Going Home

Ken Ramsey, owner of Kitten’s Joy, “is the Thoroughbred-owner equivalent of an oil wildcatter, challenging conventional rules with a common-sense wisdom, daring fate and never afraid of failure.” He should feel right at home in Texas. (ESPN)

Posted in Owners/Owning on October 20, 2004

Loose Purse Strings Needed

Some racehorse owners make millions of dollars, others lose thousands upon thousands. “In other words, this is a speculative investment for people with substantial means. Don’t bet on horses to put the kids through college or fund your retirement plan. But those who have some money to play with and enjoy horses may find it enjoyable, and if they’re lucky, financially rewarding.” (Los Angeles Times)

Posted in Owners/Owning on October 10, 2004

Surprise!

Owning racehorses isn’t profitable — unless you’re in Argentina, the Middle East, or Hong Kong. Pity the Americans, though, who recover only 51% of the money spent on upkeep and training, and the Brits, who get a paltry 28%. (BBC)

Posted in Owners/Owning on October 7, 2004

A Reminder

Big prices can mean little: “The muscular $8 million Storm Cat colt sold at Keeneland last month doesn’t yet have a name, but other yearlings that have fetched stratospheric auction prices do.
“Seattle Dancer demanded a world record $13.1 million in 1985. He ran five times and won $152,413.
“Snaafi Dancer commanded $10.2 million in 1983. He never raced.
“Imperial Falcon went for $8.25 million in 1984. He earned $13,395 in three career starts.” (Courier Journal)

Posted in Owners/Owning on October 3, 2004