Chester FC: Blues seal deal with Michael Owen’s Manor House Stables

Apr 7 2011 by Paul Wheelock, Chester Chronicle

CHESTER FC have agreed a unique partnership with the horse racing stables of Manchester United and England star Michael Owen.

Manor House Stables, co-owned by Chester-born Owen and Andrew Black, have leased a horse to the Blues that they hope will run and win money for the reborn club at events including Chester Racecourse’s famous May Festival.

Now supporters are being given the chance to become one of 50 owners of Marine Boy, the five-year-old gelding that will race in Chester FC’s own silks.

The first 50 people to come forward will make up the membership of the ‘Chester FC Racing Club’ syndicate that will own Marine Boy.

Costing £50 per month for six months, members will have the chance to visit the spectacular Manor House facility in Malpas and be given the choice to donate Marine Boy’s winnings to the Blues.

Owners badges will be available each time the horse runs while Manor House have also agreed to donate two badges to their own private box on the finishing line at Chester Racecourse.

Chester FC chief executive Steve Ashton, who would like to thank Betfair founder Black for the role he has played in setting up the deal, said: “This is a fantastic and affordable opportunity for supporters to become involved in horse racing, while at the same time being able to support Chester FC through the potential prize money Marine Boy could win and other surpluses from the racing club.”

Horse racing fan Owen – son of Chester legend Terry Owen – opened the stables in 2007 and two years later secured the services of top trainer Tom Dascombe.

Dascombe said: “We are very excited to be able to support Chester FC through the gifting of a top quality horse.

“We hope Marine Boy will have a number of entries over the flat season presenting members with the chance to see their horse in action in the blue and white stripes of Chester, with the potential of winning money for the club.”

Members will be taken on a first-come first-served basis.

To register your interest call Mike Foster on 01829 771781 or 07515 772696 or email info@devaracing.com

Application and standing order forms are also available on Chester FC’s official website www.chesterfc.com