Member of the month: Jimmy Fyffe
ROA member Jimmy Fyffe had made no secret of his ambition to own a Cheltenham Festival winner, investing significantly in horses in recent years to pursue that goal and more recently moving into breeding. Last month, that dream became a reality when Supremely West landed the Pertemps Final Hurdle at Prestbury Park. Jimmy, who is the Managing Director of drinks wholesaler JF Kegs, currently has ownership interests in 39 horses.
How did you first get involved in ownership?
My father, brother and I first got involved via a small syndicate in 2002 and then we went on to buy our own horses between us.
Tell us about your first runner…
My first runner was Endless Power in 2004 at Ayr, trained by Jim Goldie, and who duly went on to win by nine lengths at 33-1. I thought this game is easy – how wrong I was!
How did it feel and what did it mean to have your first Cheltenham Festival winner with Supremely West?
Very surreal! I’m glad we took lots of photos as I was in such a daze. It’s every jumps owner’s dream to own a winner at the Cheltenham Festival.
Is there a horse who has meant the most to you and why?
I will have two please, both trained by Jim Goldie. Endless Power was a superstar for us and loved Ayr as well as Aintree, winning multiple times at both courses. Sir Chauvelin was a classy horse on the Flat and took us to some big meetings as well as running over hurdles – he earned nearly £400,000 across his illustrious career.
Owning a horse is rarely a smooth journey – how do you manage the ups and downs?
As a racehorse owner you must be prepared for the downs, as they tend to be more frequent than the highs.
What do you enjoy most about ownership?
Going to see the horses at the yard is very enjoyable and meeting other owners.
What advice would you give to someone considering getting involved, including in breeding?
My advice is – whatever you pay for a horse, regard that money as gone. Stick to your budget, including with the training fees, especially if you’re entering breeding.