Ownership Profile - Juice Brogden

Should Juice Brogden burst into contention in the final stages of the 4YO Diamond at this year’s Harness Jewels, you’ll be sure to hear about it from the stand.

The four-year-old daughter of Bettor’s Delight has a huge army of supporters in her ownership, including some who had never owned a horse before.

Bred by Graham Bowen of Brogden Lodge, Juice Brogden is set to be the second Jewels contender to represent him as an owner after Loki Brogden competed in the 4YO Ruby at Ashburton in 2011. He finished seventh on that occasion.

Bowen was brought up around harness racing through association with his father Keith, who was a trainer based in Cambridge for many years. And having been involved with cattle breeding for 35 years, breeding was always a passion.

Established in 2005, Brogden Lodge has also produced such horses as Rueben Brodgen, Tilly Brogden, Quincy Brogden and Glenferrie EJ. They have also had success when pin hooking Dominus Vobiscum and Love Ina Chevy, who went on to be successful in Australia.

For Bowen breeding and preparing horses for the yearling sales and seeing them progress on the track for the new owners is a huge highlight.

“We also race a few fillies ourselves and retain them for breeding purposes to become broodmares,” said Bowen.

Being involved with a mare like Juice Brogden has resulted in some wonderful thrills for the team.

“The biggest highlight was running second in the Northern Oaks in 2017 splitting Partyon and Spanish Armada,” explained Bowen. “Also she has had 20 odd starts and never missed returning a cheque. Not many horses can boast that record. The times that she has missed a placing have been in group races where she has still earned a stake.”

The occasion of Jewels day will be a huge event for all involved.

“It is a very special time to spend with the other syndicate members, but particularly special for us as the breeders. Knowing we are retaining her as a broodmare and what her potential worth is once she’s finished racing,” said Bowen.

Graham and Judy Bowen retained 40 percent of the ownership in Juice Brogden and opted to divide the remaining shares between family members and friends.

This includes Sheryl and Russell Hamilton, Craig and Sharon Foster, Damian and Nicole Botherway, Russell and Christine Fantham, Ross and Jenny Nickel and Brayden Mitchell and John Hardie.

“We own the mare and the racing lease has been extended until the end of 2019, at which time Judy and I will be breeding from her,” explained Bowen.

 “We really appreciate the time and effort our trainer, Nicky Chilcott from White Star Stables, puts into our horses. Her communication is first class.”

So where will the owners be enjoying Jewels day?

“Hopefully in the winner’s circle, and you’ll probably hear us anyway as we are a particularly raucous as a group.”

“I would recommend becoming involved with a syndicate, its loads of fun at a minimal cost and a great way to enjoy the races,” he added.

- If you are wanting to find out more on how you can get involved in harness racing ownership, email Jess Smith [email protected]