Syndication
FAQ's
What is horse syndication?
What’s the difference between trotting and pacing?
Trotters move their legs in diagonal pairs, while pacers move their legs in lateral pairs. Pacing is more common in NZ racing.
How much does it cost to join a syndicate?
Costs vary depending on the horse and trainer, however shares can start as low as a few hundred dollars. Ongoing costs are usually shared monthly.
What are the ongoing expenses?
These include training fees, vet bills, transport and general upkeep. Expenses are divided based on ownership percentage.
Can I make money from syndication?
While there is potential for returns through prize money and sale of the horse, syndication should be viewed primarily as an experience, not a guaranteed investment.
Do I get to visit the horse or attend races?
Yes! Syndicate members are often invited to stable visits and race days, offering a hands-on ownership experience.
Who manages the horse and decisions?
A syndicate manager or trainer manages all professional decisions and keeps members informed through updates and reports.
How do I join a syndicate?
Contact a licensed syndicator or trainer. They’ll walk you through the available opportunities and legal requirements.
How long does a syndication typically last?
Most syndicates last for the racing career of the horse—typically 2 to 5 years. After that, the horse may be sold, retired, or transitioned to breeding.
Do I need any experience in racing to join a syndicate?
No experience is needed. Syndication is designed to be beginner-friendly, with the manager and trainer guiding all decisions and communication.
Is horse ownership through a syndicate legal and regulated?
Yes. In New Zealand, syndication is regulated by the Racing Integrity Board and overseen by Harness Racing New Zealand (HRNZ) to ensure transparency and legal compliance.
Will I receive updates about the horse’s progress?
Yes. Most syndicates provide regular updates via email, phone apps, or social media, including training progress, race nominations, and results.
Can I choose the horse I invest in?
Some syndicates let you choose a specific horse, while others offer a share in a selected horse chosen by the trainer or manager for its potential.
What happens if the horse gets injured or retires early?
If a horse is injured or retires early, the syndicate manager will inform members of next steps, which could include rehabilitation, rehoming, or sale. These scenarios are usually covered in the syndicate agreement.
Are there tax benefits for owning a racehorse?
In some cases, there may be tax deductions for racing-related expenses. It’s best to consult a tax advisor familiar with NZ racing syndicates.
Can syndicate members attend the stables or talk to the trainer?
Yes. Many trainers and syndicate managers welcome visits and offer open days. Communication is encouraged to enhance the ownership experience.
Is the horse insured?
Some syndicates include insurance (e.g., mortality or major medical), while others do not. This detail should be outlined in the syndicate agreement.
Can I sell my share if I no longer want to be involved?
Yes, most syndicates allow share transfers or sales, though this must be done in accordance with the syndicate rules and approved by the manager.
Trainers
FAQ's
What does a harness racing trainer do?
A harness racing trainer is responsible for preparing horses for racing competition. This includes conditioning, feeding, managing health care, selecting races, and overseeing daily training routines.
What kind of horses do harness racing trainers work with?
Harness racing trainers work primarily with Standardbred horses, which are specially bred for racing at a trot or pace while pulling a sulky (a two-wheeled cart with a driver).
How do harness trainers train horses differently for trotting vs pacing?
Trotters and pacers have distinct gaits:
- Trotters move their legs diagonally (right front with left rear and vice versa).
- Pacers move the legs on the same side together.
Training techniques are tailored to strengthen gait consistency, with specialized hobbles used more commonly for pacers to maintain their gait.
Do harness racing trainers also drive the horses in races?
Some trainers are also licensed drivers and race their own horses, but many hire professional drivers who specialize in racing strategy.
How does a trainer choose which races to enter a horse in?
Trainers consider the horses:
- Class and condition
- Recent performance
- Health and readiness
- Distance and track surface.
- Purse size and competition
How long does it take to train a horse for harness racing?
Standardbreds typically begin training as yearlings and may start racing at age 2 or 3. Full preparation can take 6 to 12 months, depending on the horse’s development and temperament.
What daily routine does a harness horse follow under a trainer?
A typical day includes:
- Morning jogs or training miles
- Feeding and grooming
- Health checks
- Stall cleaning
- Occasional rest or turnout days
What kind of team supports a harness racing trainer?
Trainers often work with:
- Grooms
- Veterinarians
- Farriers (hoof care)
- Owners
- Drivers
What licenses are needed to be a harness racing trainer?
A trainer must be licensed by HRNZ the regulatory governing body in New Zealand.
How do trainers maintain a horse’s health and prevent injuries?
Through:
- Proper conditioning and rest
- Regular veterinary exams
- Massage and chiropractic work.
- Adequate nutrition and hydration
- Monitoring gait for early signs of soreness or strain