Luke Littler ventures into horse racing with Stephen Bunting and Michael Owen
Luke Littler has ventured into the world of horse racing, joining forces with fellow professional Stephen Bunting and ex-Manchester United forward Michael Owen to purchase a racehorse. The teenage star, still just 19, is now part-owner of a two-year-old colt acquired for £54,000, reports BritPanorama.
The horse, named Bunting Mental, is currently being prepared by trainer Hugo Palmer at his Cheshire yard. This investment brings together talent from the sporting world, as Littler’s meteoric rise in darts now extends his interests beyond the oche.
Bunting Mental’s name pays homage to a popular darting anthem that echoes in venues whenever Stephen Bunting takes to the stage. Littler’s enthusiasm for the turf was reportedly ignited during a visit to the Cheltenham Festival in March.
Palmer has previously attended darts events at Alexandra Palace and expressed his thoughts on the new ownership group. “They haven’t been up to the yard yet, they’re due to come, but they’ve been busy with the Premier League darts,” he stated.
Palmer also noted the appeal of collaborating with younger owners, suggesting that most prominent figures in racing tend to be from his generation. “Stephen is a big racing fan, and I think everyone saw how much Luke enjoyed Cheltenham. He has a huge following, and he is an extraordinary talent,” Palmer added.
The colt has shown promise during a recent racecourse gallop, and Palmer revealed he expects the horse to be ready for its competitive debut in June. “I think they have a really nice horse on their hands,” Palmer remarked, highlighting the colt’s progress, though emphasising it won’t be ready for competition for a couple of months.
Before any racing plans can be shaped, both athletes have ongoing professional commitments. Littler is set to face defending Premier League champion Luke Humphries in Liverpool tomorrow evening, while Bunting takes on Jonny Clayton. The 19-year-old recently made headlines after a heated exchange with Gian van Veen in Rotterdam, where he could anticipate a frosty reception as a Manchester United fan facing the Liverpool crowd.
As Littler continues to carve his path within the sporting world, the intersection of darts and horse racing serves as a fervent reminder of the diverse passions that drive athletes beyond their primary disciplines.
