Teenage darts sensation Luke Littler has revealed that a surprise text message from former England football star Michael Owen persuaded him to take the plunge into horse racing — after buying a racehorse named “Littler’s Legend” last week.
The 17-year-old, who shot to global fame during his incredible run to the PDC World Darts Championship final at Alexandra Palace, admitted the purchase raised eyebrows among his family and fans. But in an exclusive interview, the Warrington-born thrower explained the unlikely chain of events that led to his equestrian investment.
“It all started when Michael messaged me out of the blue,” Littler said. “We’d met briefly at a sports awards do, and he knew I’d started watching the racing. He said, ‘If you’re serious about it, don’t just watch — get involved. A share in a horse is less than a new set of darts.’ He wasn’t wrong.”
Littler, known for his finishing power on the oche, revealed he put a “low five-figure sum” into a syndicate for a three-year-old gelding trained in Newmarket. The horse is set to make its debut next month at Chester.
“I’ve called him Littler’s Legend. Mike [Owen] helped me find the right people to talk to,” Littler added. “I know nothing about horse training, but I know about performing under pressure. And I love having a hobby away from the darts board. There’s something relaxing about watching a horse work in the morning — calm before the storm.”
Despite earning more than £500,000 in prize money and bonuses this year, the teenager insists he hasn’t “gone mad” with his spending. “It’s not about the money. It’s the buzz. Michael said it would get the adrenaline going just like a deciding leg. He was spot on.”
Owen, a well-known racehorse owner and breeder, confirmed the exchange. “Luke’s a special talent, and he asked genuine, clever questions. I think he’ll make a better owner than he gives himself credit for,” the former Liverpool and Real Madrid striker said.
Meanwhile, Littler’s management team confirmed the move will not distract from his darts schedule. “Luke remains 100% focused on qualifying for the Premier League and the majors,” a spokesperson said. “The horse is for fun — and a bit of luck.”
Fans have already taken to social media to back the venture, with one posting: “Littler wins on the oche, Littler’s Legend wins on the turf. Double celebration incoming.”
The teenage star will return to the circuit next week at the Players Championship in Wigan — and joked he might ask the PA announcer to play the sound of galloping hooves as his walk-on music.
“Only if he wins though,” he grinned. “I’m not superstitious — but I’m not stupid either.”
