How did you get into racehorse ownership?

Owning racehorses is an ambition for many people, but cost can be an issue. The Royal Racing Club aims to provide the thrill of racehorse ownership at a fraction of the normal cost. Annual membership is just €375, the equivalent of €8 a week and we have half annual, quarterly and monthly options too. Each member receives a club jacket and hat.

We want to break down the stereotypical view of racing just being for the ultra-wealthy. We are always open to new members, so get in touch if interested.

What was your best day at the races and why?

Well, the club is still in its infancy and we hope to have many great days in the future. We have made a good start and things are looking promising. Danehill Quest finished second at Tipperary and Ivaquestion finished fourth in a good maiden at Leopardstown.

What is the biggest drawback about being a racehorse owner?

Thoroughbreds are fragile animals, as everyone in the industry knows. Injuries and setbacks are part of the game. The fact that we have five horses in training spreads the risk of having to wait a long time for a runner.

In your experience, what racecourse in Ireland treats owners the best and why?

I think it would be unfair to single out one racecourse as the best when we have not dealt with a big enough sample. Racecourses have improved greatly over the last few years and there is certainly a greater emphasis on the customer, which is a big positive. Overall, going racing is a very enjoyable experience.

Flat or jump racing, which do you prefer?

Currently we have three flat horses and two jumpers, so members are well catered for throughout the year.

What qualities do you look for in a trainer?

We have the support of four fantastic trainers in Meath: Sheila Lavery, Dermot McLoughlin, Shane Crawley and Thomas Coyle. It is vital that there is regular communication between the trainers and us.

Our members are kept informed about the welfare, development and possible entries of each horse. Each of our trainers are honest, hardworking, knowledgeable and ambitious.

Sheila has won some big races, most notably with the late Lady Kaya. Dermot has an excellent strike rate and has picked up some big prizes with the likes of Vics Canvas, Santa Rossa and Dragon Fei.

Shane is an up and coming young National Hunt trainer. Last season, he had a 100% runners-winners rate, with Sassy Diva being the flagbearer.

Thomas has recently installed a new two-furlong Wexford sand gallop and is creating a quality training base.

What improvements would you like to see racecourses in Ireland do for owners?

We haven’t had runners at many tracks yet, but at the ones where we have raced, the hospitality has been mostly good. From a racing club point of few, allocation of more tickets is an issue. A racing club is currently only entitled to four extra tickets per runner, the same as an individual owner.

Perhaps provision could be made to allow a club to apply for more tickets on days when they have a runner

What significance do your colours hold?

Meath is referred to as the Royal County, hence the name of the club. Our horses carry the Meath colours; hopefully members from other counties won’t mind!

What horses do you currently have in training?

Ivaquestion, Jazzelle, Danehill Quest with Sheila Lavery. Tommy Hilfilly with Dermot McLoughlin, and Golden Chance with Thomas Coyle.

What’s next on the agenda for your horses?

Ivaquestion will hopefully come on and should go close in another maiden. He’s an exciting colt and his sire, Ivawood, has made a good start at stud. Jazzelle is coming along nicely and will make her debut in the next few weeks. Danehill Quest is being given a little break. He’s a tough horse and might get his head in front during the summer. Tommy Hilfilly has schooled well and will run in a maiden hurdle in a few weeks.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of becoming a racehorse owner?

To be patient and have realistic expectations. If you’ve chosen the correct trainer, your horse will be in good hands.

Twiiter: @royalracingclu1

Website: royalracingclub.ie

Killian Broderick was in conversation with Olivia Hamilton.