Royal Ascot: A Shared Passion for Horse Racing
As the Premier League’s off-season progresses, the spotlight shifts to Royal Ascot, a prestigious event that ties together Brighton & Hove Albion’s chairman, Tony Bloom, and a number of his players in a shared passion for horse racing. This week, Bloom and key squad members like Georginio Rutter and James Milner will partake in the excitement of this renowned horse racing spectacle, reflecting the club’s deep-rooted connection to the sport.
The Significance of Royal Ascot
Royal Ascot, a highlight of the British sporting calendar, is marked by its elaborate pre-race ceremonies, including a royal procession featuring dignitaries and members of the royal family arriving in horse-drawn carriages. Notably, this year’s event celebrates the 200th anniversary of this tradition, and racegoers typically don top hats and elegant dresses, upholding a long-standing dress code.
Tony Bloom’s Racing Journey
The action commences on Tuesday with the Queen Anne Stakes, in which Bloom will be competing with his horse, Lake Forest, trained by William Haggas. Bloom’s history at Ascot includes past victories, such as the Wokingham Stakes in 2009, where he was part-owner, and consecutive wins in the Queen Alexandra Stakes in 2021 and 2022. His connection to Brighton began shortly before Lake Forest’s initial success at the royal meeting, showcasing his enduring dedication to transforming the football club into a Premier League contender.
Bloom’s love for horse racing is informed by family ties—particularly his grandfather, who was involved in dog racing. Interestingly, his own foray into betting started young when he used a fake ID to access betting shops at just 15 years old. As a rising figure in the world of sports betting, Bloom’s wealth reportedly increased to £721 million ($979 million), placing him at 213 on the Sunday Times Rich List.
Expanding Racing Interests
Bloom’s racing interests are expanding, focusing on flat racing alongside Ian McAleavy, a partner with whom he shares ownership of several horses trained by Haggas. Earlier this year, Lake Forest experienced notable success, finishing second in the Commonwealth Cup before securing a lucrative £2.8 million win in The Golden Eagle in Australia, a meaningful victory for Bloom and his wife, Linda.
This week, additional horses associated with Bloom, such as Sky Majesty and The Reverend, also have competitive entries at Ascot. Notably, Bloom owns other horses individually, including Thunder Ball, emphasizing his commitment and enjoyment in the racing world. The attention he devotes to these horses underscores a passion that goes beyond mere financial investment.
Broader Involvement in Horse Racing
Bloom’s achievement isn’t exclusive to flat racing; he also boasts success in jump racing events such as the Cheltenham Festival, where his horses like Energumene have won prestigious races. His ambitions to win major flat races in the UK show his dedication to the sport.
Brighton’s recent acquisition of Milner has brought additional attention to horse racing among players, generating interest in racehorse ownership. Milner’s history with horses at Manor House stables now connects him with teammates like Lewis Dunk and Danny Welbeck, many of whom are part of the Two Plus Three Two Plus Four ownership syndicate, featuring horses with whimsical names inspired by their club’s identity.
Among the new signings and existing players, Rutter brings his own horse racing experiences into the fold, having grown up near racecourses in France. His enthusiasm for horses has led him to invest in multiple racehorses since joining Brighton. With a close connection to training and ownership, young players like Rutter reflect a growing trend of athlete involvement in horse racing, creating a unique blend of sports culture at Brighton.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the intertwining stories of Brighton & Hove Albion, its chairman Tony Bloom, and its players reflect a vibrant culture of horse racing that thrives alongside their commitment to football. With the festivities of Royal Ascot underway, both Bloom and his team gear up for what promises to be an exhilarating celebration of sport, elegance, and shared memories that transcend their individual pursuits.
