Surprising Racehorse Owners of the Stars

The Grand National, a racehorse event that spans three exhilarating days, attracts over 150,00 people each year. Equestrian enthusiasts travel from across the world, celebrating in flamboyant clothing and gathering to witness the famous four-mile-long race.

Lynne Fisher, Marketing and Sales Support Manager at Cliverton, specialist suppliers of livery yard insurance, spoke about the upcoming event:

“The Grand National is one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year. To those who aren’t lucky enough to have their own stables, the festival gives us the opportunity to marvel at the beauty and splendour of horses.

“As crowds gather from across the world, you may be tempted to start your own equestrian journey. If you’re eager to own a horse or add to your own livery yard, insurance is the first step to ensuring your animals are cared for.”

In Great Britain alone, an estimated 14,000 people own a racehorse, whether this is sole ownership, a partnership, or a syndicate. To keep us entertained until the first race begins, we will reveal the equestrian enthusiasts of the stars in the United Kingdom.

Dame Judi Dench

Dame Judi Dench, silver screen actress and timeless British icon, is among our surprising racehorse owners of the stars. During her illustrious career, Judi has won an impressive 69 acting awards, including an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in 1999. You may, however, be more familiar with her longstanding role as ‘M’ in the James Bond franchise.

If winning the hearts of the nation wasn’t enough, Dame Judi has gone on to own a budding racehorse alongside Mystic Meg. At four years old, Amsby finished fourth place at Lingfield Park races in 2020. We’re excited to see what the future brings for this dynamic team.

Jeremy Kyle

You may be shocked to find Jeremy Kyle on our list of celebrity racehorse owners. Well, surprised or not, the recognisable talk show host is among the echelon of equine enthusiasts. His horse, named Black Corton, came in first place at the Kauto Star Novices’ Chase in 2017. Jeremy also partially owns Give Me A Copper alongside Alex Ferguson.

Elizabeth ‘Liz’ Hurley

Horseracing attracts celebrities from all walks of life, including the admired actress Elizabeth Hurley, best known for her role in Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery (1997). Throughout the years, Elizabeth has become a recognisable face at a number of races, from Ascot to Epsom and the Grand National itself.

Liz’s appearances at these races go beyond an opportunity to celebrate. She has owned her own racehorses as far back as 2009. In fact, the actress had to honour of selling her horse Memory to Queen Elizabeth II in 2011 for breeding purposes.

Wayne and Coleen Rooney

Last but certainly not least, Wayne and Coleen Rooney also own racehorses. Wayne may be known as a legendary striker in Manchester United, but a successful football career doesn’t stop him from knowing a thing or two about horses.

The couple owns three horses: Pippy, Switcharooney, and Tomway. Unfortunately, Pippy finished last place in the Manor House Stables Lily Agnes Stakes show in 2022. We can only hope the future brings more fortune for the Rooney’s racehorses.

These are a selection of celebrity racehorse owners in the United Kingdom. The amount of time and care that goes into providing for the animals before, during, and after these festivals is extensive. As a result, owning your own racehorse can be expensive. This is why so many celebrities rise to the occasion, no doubt. Will you be tempted to your own livery yard after attending the Grand National?