WITH National Hunt racing due to return on July 1, Stratford Mayor Cllr Tony Jackson took the opportunity to visit Olly Murphy’s stables in Wilmcote.
The visit enabled Cllr Jackson to check on the progress of Hurricane Hero – a horse he partially owns as a member of racing syndicate ‘The Sky’s the Limit’.
Cllr Jackson explained: “I have always been interested in horse racing but never thought I would ever become an owner.
“The opportunity to join this new syndicate arose last year and Hurricane Hero was purchased specifically for us.
“It has been exciting to see the progress he has made and to share the enjoyment with a group of new friends.”
Fellow syndicate member Tim Stephens said: “Hurricane Hero has taken to hurdles really well under Olly Murphy and his team.
“He is making good progress and a third place at Warwick just before lockdown showed his potential.
“We are all keen to see him racing again. If he could win a race it would be a dream come true but that is very secondary to seeing him enjoy his racing and allowing us to have a great day out.”
Trainer Murphy looks after 120 horses at his Warren Chase stables and is rapidly making a name for himself with more than 200 winners.
He said: “Syndicates are becoming increasingly popular and they provide a wonderful opportunity for people to become involved.
“The focus is very much on keeping everyone involved by having regular contact, stable visits and helping the members to have a fun day out at the races.”
Ilona Barnett, general manager of Stratford Racecourse, said: “Racing is currently being successfully trialled behind closed doors and Stratford Races is set to resume on July 8.
“We are monitoring the situation closely and are hopeful the public could be allowed through the gates in the not too distant future.”
