Fields Nominations Results

Open Days

Hosting an Open Day: Tips and Strategies

Hosting an open day is a fantastic way to showcase your stable, connect with current and potential owners, and create excitement about your horses. Here’s how to plan and execute a memorable and successful open day:

Why Host an Open Day?

Open days give people a firsthand look at your operation and the care that goes into training. They’re an opportunity to:

  • Attract potential owners and syndicate members.
  • Strengthen relationships with current owners by showing them behind the scenes.
  • Highlight your horses, staff, and facilities in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
  • Showcase any Next Gen-eligible horses and explain how the bonuses work.

Planning Your Open Day

1. Pick a Date and Time

  • Choose a weekend or day that suits your target audience for maximum attendance.
  • Ensure the timing works for your schedule and aligns with major racing or sales events.

2. Promote the Event

  • Use social media to share details: date, time, and what attendees can expect.
    • Example post: “Join us this Saturday for an open day at [Stable Name]! Get a behind-the-scenes look at the stables and meet our horses. Message for details!”
  • Send email invitations to current owners and potential clients.
  • Collaborate with local businesses or community groups to spread the word.
  • Highlight on your posts if you’ll be showcasing Next Gen-eligible horses or other special activities.

3. Plan Activities

Make the day engaging by including:

  • Stable Tours: Walk visitors through your stables and track.
  • Show Horses Being Worked: Allow attendees to observe horses in action during their training routines.
  • Q&A Sessions: Answer questions about ownership, syndication, and the Next Gen program.
  • Staff Introductions: Let your team share their stories and expertise.
  • Light Refreshments and Spot Prizes: Provide snacks, drinks, or even a BBQ to create a welcoming atmosphere. Offer small giveaways like stable merchandise or reward owners who bring a friend.

4. Prepare Your Horses and Facilities

  • Ensure horses are well-groomed and ready to impress.
  • Tidy up the stables, barn, and surrounding areas to make a great impression.

5. Have Materials Ready

  • Provide easy-to-read flyers about your stable, syndicates, and Next Gen eligibility.
  • Include a sign-up sheet for attendees to leave their contact details.
  • Have copies of the Next Gen yearling collection booklet available.

Engaging Your Audience During the Open Day

  • Welcome Everyone Personally: Greet attendees warmly and make them feel valued.
  • Encourage Interaction: Let attendees meet the horses and ask questions about their care and training.
  • Showcase Successes: Share stories about recent wins or notable achievements from your stable.
  • Focus on Next Gen Opportunities: Highlight any Next Gen-eligible horses and explain the benefits of the program for owners.

Follow Up After the Event

  • Send a thank-you email or message to attendees, including photos from the event.
  • Share highlights of the open day on social media to extend its impact.
    • Example post: “Thanks to everyone who joined us for our open day! It was great to meet so many passionate racing fans. Here’s a look back at the day!”
  • Follow up with interested attendees to provide more information about ownership opportunities.

Hosting an open day is a valuable tool to build connections, promote your stable, and grow your ownership base. With thoughtful planning and execution, it can leave a lasting impression on both current and prospective owners.

Next Gen