VIP Stable - Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions about VIP Stable

How can I get involved as an owner with VIP?

VIP Stable is an easy and inexpensive way to get involved with the great sport of Harness Racing. VIP does not require members to purchase a minimum of 10% of a horse (as many partnerships do). Our goal is to make horse ownership fun and affordable for everyone. Keep an eye on our "Join VIP" page for our next opportunity. You can also stay up to date with what's happening at VIP by adding your name to our emailing list. You can do this by simply sending an email to tomj@vipstable.com and ask to be added to our mailing list.

Why should I choose VIP Stable?

There are several options when joining the ownership ranks in Harness Racing, and we think VIP is the best one for both new and experienced owners. VIP Stable and it's founder, Ed O'Connor, are the only large public partnership to be honored by the US Trotting Association with it's President's award in 2011! We've been owning and managing successful racehorse partnerships since 1999 and have been in more big money races than any other standardbred partnership over the last several years.

Can I watch the horse train?

Definitely!!!! We encourage our owners to visit the track where our horses are stabled and meet our trainers, grooms and other owners.

Can I get in the winner's circle when my horse wins?

Without a doubt!!!! That's what we live for in this game.

How much does it cost to take care of a racehorse?

Horseracing expenses vary by region of the country. However, a racing horse in training will generally cost in the range of $3,000 - $4,500 per month to care for. This includes training costs ($40-$60 per day), stable costs ($200 - $400 per month), transportation ($100-$300 per trip to the track), vet costs (which are generally $750 - $1,500 per month), and equipment rental ($100-200 per month). There are also occasional miscellaneous costs that can add to the overall expenses. As you can see, horse ownership can be expensive. That's why partnerships (such as VIP) are a great way to get involved as those expenses can be shared by the entire group.

When will I receive my bills or profits? VIP Stable's Crisis returning to the Meadowlands Winner's circle

Monthly statements will be sent to owners . If the horse showed a loss for the month, the owner would be billed for their share of that loss. If the horse made a profit for the month, the owner would receive a check for their share of the profit.

How is VIP compensated for managing the stable?

We believe we should make money when our partners make money, so VIP receives a percentage of the purse money that our horses earn and a percentage of any appreciation in value when our horses are sold. VIP also charges an annual fee of $165 (per person, not per horse) to cover the costs of Tax Return preparation and other overhead costs.

Does VIP insure their horses for mortality or major medical?

VIP Stable generally does not purchase Mortality or Major Medical insurance on our horses. Purchasing Life Insurance for a horse is a decision we feel each partner should make on their own. These policies can be expensive (usually 4% to 6% of the horse's value) and the odds of a racing horse dying is small. We also feel purchasing medical insurance is not a sound financial decision. This type of insurance is expensive (ranging from $700 to $1000 per year). Most injuries don't require surgery and this type of insurance (along with life insurance) can really add costs to an already expensive sport.

How will I know when my horse is racing?

We use a password protected Members Only page to keep our partners up to date on how our horses are doing, when they will race, and any other important information. This page is updated just about every day with the latest happenings.

What risks are involved in owning a racehorse?

Any racehorse is a very risky investment. They are living things, not machines, who can get sick, injured and even die. As many precautions as we take, there is no way to prevent the problems inherent in racing. An investment in a racehorse is only recommended for high net worth individuals or for those who have experience in and/or a strong understanding of how the business operates!

Have more questions?

Just drop us an email at tomj@vipstable.com and we'll be happy to answer your questions.