Join the Thrill of Uppingham Thoroughbred Racing
Now entering its second successful year, the syndicates operated by Uppingham Thoroughbred Racing (UTR) offer a unique opportunity to experience the excitement of horseracing at an accessible level. Led by renowned trainer James Ferguson (Fgh 03) and supported by his dedicated team, the syndicate combines competitive racing with opportunities to meet fellow members at race days, yard visits, and at an annual dinner with leading figures from the racing world.
Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or simply curious about the sport, this is your chance to share in the camaraderie and the thrill of the turf – all in OU colours.
FOLLOW US @uppingham.racing
| KEY BENEFITS FOR MEMBERS 🏇🏻 |
|---|
 By joining Uppingham Thoroughbred Racing (UTR), members can enjoy afternoons and evenings at the races in a close-knit, passionate group, an experience that feels like sole ownership.
- Enjoy the exclusivity of the owner experiences on race days and connect with fellow owners.
- Enjoy the thrill of watching your horse race and receive a share of any prize money won.
|
 Visit Machell Place Stables – the headquarters of James Ferguson Racing and home to our Uppingham horses – and enjoy watching morning gallops and see training in action.- Invitations to events and social occasions including an annual dinner, which is provided for all fully paid syndicate members, featuring a horse racing personality. This year, the personalities were Emma Lavelle, National Hunt Trainer and Cheltenham Festival winner (pictured on right). Mary Frances, CEO of the Racehorse Rehabilitation Centre, our current favoured charity.
|
~ Join the Mailing List ~
To receive the latest news, updates and hear about opportunities to get involved with various events (without any financial obligation) contact Simon Greenly to register your email address.
~ Latest News ~
15 December 2025
Sparksmith Comes Third in his Maiden Run
A promising debut run. He was relaxed in the ring, cantered down well, was no trouble to load, and broke well at the start; all important matters in a first run. Lingfield has a tight left-hand bend and Sparksmith managed it well, just running out of puff at the end, to two more experienced horses. A third place and over a £1,000 in prize money is a satisfactory start. He will have learnt from the experience, and should improve for his next run in the New Year.
12th December 2025
Plans Underway for Unforgettable Racing Trips
After experiencing their outstanding service first hand, we are thrilled to announce a new collaboration with leading racing event organisers Venatour. Together, we will offer exclusive racing experiences both in the UK and abroad.
Our launch event takes place 2–7 July 2026 in Deauville, featuring the prestigious Group 1 Prix Jean Prat on 5 July; perfectly timed to avoid the summer holiday rush in France. Guests can choose between two packages:
- Four-night stay
- Five-night stay, which includes a visit to the renowned Deauville Arqana sales
Both options include a full programme of racing and social events. Detailed itineraries, pricing, and a book form will be available soon.
Looking ahead, we also plan to secure places for an unforgettable trip to the world-famous Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe in October 2026. This experience will be based in the charming town of Chantilly, the historic heart of French racing.
11th December 2025
UTR III: Sparksmith’s First Run at Lingfield Park
We are delighted to announce that Sparksmith will make his debut at Lingfield Park over 6 furlongs. The race is scheduled for 12:12 PM, with Johnny Peate taking the ride. His first outing was delayed due to a bruised foot, but now we can finally see what he’s made of. This run should help him mature as a racehorse. Fingers crossed for a strong performance!
26th November 2025
First End-of-Season Dinner in London
Our inaugural end-of-season dinner took place at The RAG (Army and Navy Club) in St James’s Square, offering members an evening of insight and celebration. The event featured two distinguished guest speakers: Emma Lavelle, a leading National Hunt trainer, and Mary Frances, CEO of the Moorcroft Horse Rehabilitation Centre. Both delivered engaging interviews conducted by Colin Cameron, the well-known racing connection and regular host at the RAG and RAC clubs.
30th October 2025
Uppingham Special Syndicate I Horse 'Advancing' Sold
The first syndicate, Uppingham Special, got off to a promising start when the gelding, Advancing (a leased horse) won his debut race at Kempton in style. While his subsequent performances didn’t quite match the excitement of that maiden victory, he still earned just over £6,000 (net) in prize money, which will be distributed pro rata among syndicate members in January 2026.
After two disappointing runs, finishing 7th of 9 at Sandown (17 September) and 6th of 12 at Newcastle (4 October), the owner decided to sell Advancing at the Tattersalls Horses in Training Sale at the end of October.
The Uppingham Thoroughbred Racing Syndicate
A fun and exciting way to engage in the world of horse racing
MEMBERSHIP EXPLAINED / HOW TO JOIN
The Uppingham Thoroughbred Racing Club will be run by the following contacts:
| James Ferguson (Fgh 03), Trainer |
|---|
 A one-time amateur jockey, he gained his training licence in 2019, having learnt his trade with racing greats Sir Mark Prescott, Charlie Appleby and Jessica Harrington. Based in Newmarket, he has had success at Group level and has a growing list of both important owners and horses. As Trainer, he will lead his team who look after all aspects of keeping horses in training. He will partner with our favoured Bloodstock agents and advisors to source the syndicate horses. |
| Simon Greenly (F58), Finance, Admin and Governance |
|---|
 Simon brings over 40 years of business experience as a corporate trouble shooter. Since 2004, he has worked with aspiring medium-sized enterprises, providing both capital and strategic expertise through his team. His passion for horse racing began in childhood, attending point-to-point meetings in Northumberland, and today he remains actively involved in both Flat and National Hunt racing. Simon is also a trusted adviser to the OU School for Life programme, providing mentoring and guidance to those seeking support. |
~ Past News ~
28th May 2025 – Second horse purchased and Uppingham Flyer established
The syndicate team confirmed the purchase of a horse, subsequently named Sparksmith, for the second Uppingham Syndicate. He's a bay colt, by French sire Hello Youmzain ex Gemcutter, purchased in France at the Arqana sale and trained in Newmarket by James Ferguson.
10th May 2025 – Day at Ascot
An exciting day of racing entertainment took place at Ascot racecourse on the 10th May 2025.
23rd April 2025 – First syndicate full, second syndicate launched
We are pleased to announce that the Uppingham Special Syndicate is now fully subscribed and we have launched Uppingham Flyer as syndicate No 2.
12th February 2025 – First win
We are delighted to share that ADVANCING (Lope De Vega) won on debut at Kempton Park, all weather, on 12th February – becoming a first winner for the UPPINGHAM SPECIAL Syndicate. An encouraging debut performance that shows promise going forward, despite being green. Congratulations to owners and all involved in the syndicate!