Gold Rush Proves Value of Maiden Bonus

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (Apr. 20, 2011) – If large fields are the key to viable racing, look at the impact the California-bred maiden bonus program has had on Saturday’s Gold Rush XII card. Combined, the nine Gold Rush races drew a total of 88 entries, an average of 9.7 per race.

The program rewards owners of horses winning California-bred or –sired maiden allowance races a $20,000 bonus in Southern California and $10,000 bonus in Northern California or the fairs.

The program, funded by the CTBA and Thoroughbred Owners of California, was designed to increase demand for California-bred or -sired horses by significantly increasing the purse money and opportunities available for California-bred or -sired horses.

The program not only has resulted in increased purses for maiden winners, but an increased number of horses eligible for first-condition allowance races.

For proof, Saturday’s Gold Rush Card had 14 entries in the Alphabet Kisses Stakes for maiden fillies and mares, and 19 in the NTRA Stakes for maiden colts and geldings. There were so many entries in the NTRA Stakes that it was split into two divisions.

Meanwhile, the Grey Memo Stakes for colts and geldings eligible to the first condition drew 10, while the Warren’s Thoroughbred Stakes for fillies and mares eligible to the first condition drew eight.