Trainers

Training Agreements

One of the most important things to do when becoming a racehorse owner is to make sure you have a Training Agreement in place.

There is a requirement under the Rules of Racing for a training agreement and the minimum requirements are set out in the Trainer Code.

The ROA has drawn up a training agreement in liaison with the National Trainers' Federation (NTF). The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has confirmed that the agreement complies with its rules that require that a signed training agreement exists between owner and trainer. Both the ROA and the NTF recommend members to use the Training Agreement but this version is not mandatory. An alternative version can be used as long as it contains the minimum requirement as set out by the BHA in the Trainer Code  The full rule appears here

Trainer-owner agreement

A trainer-owner agreement must be signed and must set out the terms agreed between the parties in respect of at least the following:

• The basic training fee (expressed as an amount payable by week or by calendar month);
• All other regular expenses (such as gallop fees, shoeing costs and the like);
• The extent of the Licensed Trainer's authority to incur any additional charges or expenses for the account of the owner (such as veterinary fees);
• Provision for variation to be made as to any of the matters specified and for proper notification of variation to be made in writing;
• The time and method of payment by the owner;
• Any provision for a Trainer's lien;
• Any matter as to training agreements which is required by a code of conduct issued under the Rules of Racing;
• And such other matters as the Authority may from time to time direct.

Click below for the PDF of the ROA / NTF Training Agreement:
 

ROA NTF Training Agreement inc Notes March 2020.pdf

Scottish Law alternative clause 27.docx

Click here for information relating to dispute mediation.
 

Choosing your Trainer

There may be different factors which influence which racehorse trainer you choose. Budget, location and current form may be some factors.
 
Both the National Trainers Federation (NTF) and British Horseracing Authorities have searchable tools on their website which may help you make that all important decision.

The National Trainers Federation

The Trainers representative body. They have a searchable list of their members on their website:
https://www.racehorsetrainers.org/find/listtrainers.asp

Search options: by name, county or license type.
Shows full contact details, email and web address and Secretary's name.

 British Horseracing Authority

The BHA website also lists the racehorse trainers' championship table for both Flat and National Hunt disciplines. You can also search in the listings for trainers.
 
https://www.britishhorseracing.com/racing/participants/trainers/
Search options: by name.
Shows full contact details. number of horses in training, and performance summary