Claiming Crown Spotlights Workhorses At Churchill Downs Next Saturday

[Wandering Eyes]

Next Saturday's Claiming Crown under the Twin Spires, with $1.1 million in purses spread over eight events, was created to give American racing's everyday workhorses–and their owners and trainers–a day in the spotlight, according to an NHBPA release on Sunday.

Churchill Downs is the Claiming Crown's host track for the third time in four years. Registered Kentucky-bred horses will race for an additional $130,000 from the Kentucky Thoroughbred Development Fund, with the per-race supplement ranging from $10,000 to $25,000. The event was created in 1999 by the NHBPA and TOBA.

“It's reality for most people in horse racing,” said trainer Tom Van Berg. “Most people don't deal in the $2.2 million weanlings, the $5.6 million broodmares. It's not feasible for most people.”

“Only a small percentage of owners and trainers are blessed with having a horse qualify for the Breeders' Cup or Triple Crown,” said National HBPA CEO Eric Hamelback. “But the majority of horsemen have a shot to someday be in the Claiming Crown, providing that big-day experience for their owners. Even trainers with considerable Grade I experience strive to participate in the Claiming Crown.”

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