James Lock is hoping he can fulfil a boyhood dream by becoming a Royal Ascot winning owner this weekend.
The ‘Only Way is Essex’ star is part of a syndicate which owns racehorse Keystroke, who will take part in the Diamond Jubilee Stakes – which has a total prize money fund of £600,000 – on Saturday (22.06.19) at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire.
He said: "It will be a dream come true! I grew up watching horse racing as a little boy, but never once thought I’d end up owning a horse that could end up winning a big race at Royal Ascot.
"I love everything about Royal Ascot, it’s a great day out where everyone dresses up and enjoys the racing. I can’t wait to be there on Saturday to cheer on Keystroke."
James – who is also known as Lockie – admits it is a "special feeling" when his horse wins a race, and he has encouraged others to get involved in owning a racehorse.
Speaking at a visit to Stuart Williams’ yard in Newmarket to check in on Keystroke’s final preparations ahead of the big race, he added: "Owning a racehorse is brilliant.
"It takes you to places you could only imagine of going and adds to the excitement of what is already a great day out.
"Especially being in a syndicate with my mates, it’s a special feeling when your horse wins. I would encourage anyone to get into ownership, if I can do it, anyone can."
Speaking about Keystroke’s chances on Saturday, Stuart said: "I’m very happy with him. We’ve had a very good preparation and we’ve got Adam Kirby on board again. I’m very hopeful Ascot will suit him.
"It’s great to be going to Royal Ascot with a horse like Keystroke, in a race against some of the best sprinters in the world. It’s a tough task but he’s very well in himself and we’re all very much looking forward to it."
Keystroke is a 33/1 shot for the race, but the horse has previously overcome its odds in the Abernat Stakes at Newmarket back in April, where he stormed to victory at a huge price of 66/1.
James who is one of eight involved in the syndicate, which is managed by GG Thoroughbreds.
To follow in Lockie’s footsteps, horse racing fans can find information about shared ownership on www.inthepaddock.co.uk.
In the Paddock is a unique platform from Great British Racing that offers visitors the chance to search and compare shared racehorse ownership organisations based in the UK.
James Lock hoping for Royal Ascot syndicate success
