Kenny Troutt's Kentucky-based WinStar Farm announced March 29 it had created a new program designed to get racing fans more engaged with the sport. A mix of personal experience and online offerings promises to give participants “the closest experience to owning a major Thoroughbred farm one can have without actually owning it,” according to a press release.
The program, called WinStar StableMates, offers several levels of access. The most exclusive level, grade I membership, offers a stay at a local Lexington area landmark and luxury hotel called the Castle Post and VIP behind-the-scenes access in all areas of WinStar Farm near Versailles. Members at this level also will get the chance to be in the winner’s circle with the WinStar team, have the opportunity to witness a foal being born, watch horses in training, and more. The grade I level is limited to 75 people.
The grade II level membership offers full access to the StableMates website, special question and answer sessions with farm managers, eligibility for special drawings and giveaways, and tickets to races. The cost of the grade II level is $299.95 annually or $25.95 per month. The third level, grade III, include access to most of the website content, access to weekly VIP farm tours, eligibility to ticket and memorabilia drawings, a choice of StableMates apparel, and discounts through the WinStar online store. The cost of the grade III level is $99.95 per year or $8.95 per month.
There also is a free level of membership that provides limited access to the StableMates website.
The cost of the grade I level was not disclosed and anyone interested in the grade I level has to call the farm to sign up. Online registration is available at the grade II and grade III levels by going to the StableMates website.
“This website, WinStarStableMates.com, makes it easy and affordable for racing fans and Thoroughbred horse lovers to participate in a very unique and fun way into the business and daily activity of a major Thoroughbred racing operation,” said Elliott Walden, WinStar's CEO, president, and racing manager. “WinStar is committed to being a leader not only on the track, but in all efforts in lifting the profile of Thoroughbred racing, giving fans a more meaningful way to interact with the sport and industry.”