In a thrilling display of grit and class, the microshare-owned racehorse Wendigo secured a landmark Grade 2 victory at Newbury, providing an unforgettable day for the thousands of owners who form his unique syndicate.
A Day to Remember for Racing Club Owners
The six-year-old, trained by Grade 1-winning trainer Jamie Snowden at Folly House Stables in Lambourn, produced a powerful late run to win the John Francome Novices' Chase on Friday 28th November. Starting as the 5/2 second favourite in a field of six, Wendigo outstayed the Paul Nicholls-trained favourite, Regent's Stroll, owned by Sir Alex Ferguson.
This victory marked a significant step forward for the gelding, who had been narrowly defeated on his chasing debut at Worcester. The win was hailed as "one of the finest days in Racing Club history" by members, with around 500 owners attending the meeting to witness the triumph firsthand.
Jockey and Trainer Reaction to the Win
Jockey Gavin Sheehan was full of praise for Wendigo's performance. "He was brilliant, he really attacked his fences and never backed off," Sheehan said. "He has got class and scope. I loved the way he travelled and went about his business and we had the fight in us late on."
Trainer Jamie Snowden reported the following morning that the horse was "sound and well" after his exertions. "Ben's horse looked the winner two out but we outstayed him from the back of the last," Snowden noted. "He will improve for going up in trip on softer ground and the future is very bright."
The Microshare Ownership Experience
The day was defined by exceptional owner engagement. Attendees enjoyed a pre-race briefing with Snowden, access to the parade ring, and heard final instructions from Sheehan. Following the win, they joined the trophy presentation, took photographs with Wendigo, and celebrated in the winner's enclosure.
Tom Aldridge, Head of Racing at Racing Club, emphasised the opportunity this presents. "Shares in Wendigo offer a rare chance to be part of a high-class racehorse right at a pivotal moment in his career," he said. "And at just £99, it opens the door for racing fans to experience real ownership without the usual barriers."
The syndicate, which runs for the 25/26 season, offers shares from as little as £15, with each including:
- Full ownership benefits for the syndicate term.
- Regular updates on race schedules and training.
- A share of any prize money earned.
With the festive season in mind, shares are being promoted as a unique gift, with combined horse and merchandise packages offering savings of up to £44.
Future Targets and Ethical Commitment
Looking ahead, connections are considering a next possible run in the Grade 1 Kauto Star Novices' Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day, a feature race televised on ITV1 and Racing TV. The long-term aim is the prestigious Grade 1 Brown Advisory Novices' Chase at the Cheltenham Festival, where Wendigo competed last season.
Racing Club underscores its commitment to high standards of horse welfare, transparency, and ethical practices in managing all its syndicates, ensuring owners can share in the thrill of ownership with complete confidence.
