Hurlingham’s history with the horse revolves purely around polo – right? Well not entirely. Scratch the surface and you uncover a much broader historical equine association. Of course, polo was the mainstay, but did you know that a Derby-winning horse called Macaroni was owned by the last private owner of Hurlingham, and most likely lived on the estate (see issue no 108 Autumn 2016 for Martin Bishop’s account)? Or that members used to enjoy polo pony racing and a steeplechase, all at Hurlingham?

There have, of course, also been countless Hurlingham Club members who have owned racehorses over the years, including myself; I have shares in a racing syndicate.

I was brought up next to Cowdray Park, one of the centres of British Polo, and only a stone’s throw from Goodwood Racecourse. My passion for horses has been lifelong and now thrives through my involvement with my brother, James O’Donnell’s racing syndicate, The Kingsmoor Club.

James and I are now aiming to keep the Hurlingham equestrian connection alive through the creation of an exclusive members’ racing syndicate

James has worked in international racing for more than 20 years and has had the fortune of being directly involved with some of the greatest horses in living memory – Frankel, Kingman, Baaeed, to name a few.   

James and I are now aiming to keep the Hurlingham equestrian connection alive through the creation of an exclusive members’ racing syndicate.

Our aim is to encourage members to join the syndicate and experience the excitement of owning a share in these majestic animals, whilst also enjoying the social events and entertainment that we organise.

There will be two flat and one national hunt horses in training. Members can own shares in either, or both syndicates. This is a fun, entertaining and cost-effective way of enjoying this thrilling sport at the highest level. Members will receive invitations to the stables and gallops to meet the horses, trainers and jockeys, as well as social and racing events on and off the racecourse. There will be regular updates, videos and reports on the horses from the racing manager, trainers, vets, farriers etc.

The price of a share will be in the region of £2,450 per year, all inclusive. If you are interested in joining or would like more information, please contact me directly.

LOUISE DEFTY
louiseaodonnell@googlemail.com