Bigger purses have changed the claiming game, presenting challenges – and opportunities – for both horsemen and racetracks.
January’s average handle in the mid-Atlantic region was basically flat versus December’s number, though all four operating tracks topped $1 million in average betting.
Veteran Page McKenney returned from a long layoff to score an emphatic win in the Native Dancer Stakes today at Laurel Park.
High Roller scored a mild upset in the Whiteley, while favored Star Super hung on in the Marshua today at Laurel Park.
Jockey Trevor McCarthy’s three stakes wins today are the latest sign his career’s in a rapid upswing — but though a young man in a hurry, he’s in no rush.
Marabea, perfect since being claimed by trainer Lacey Gaudet in September, looks for her third straight win in the Nellie Morse Stakes Saturday at Laurel Park.
Cal Lynch trainee Star Super is the even-money favorite on the morning line for Saturday’s Marshua Stakes at Laurel Park.
O Dionysus, a near-miss second last out in the Marylander Stakes, is a solid favorite in Saturday’s Whiteley Stakes at Laurel Park.
Millionaire fan favorite Page McKenney will make his first start in nine months in Saturday’s Native Dancer Stakes at Laurel Park.
Imperial Hint was sharp in taking today’s $75,000 Fire Plug Stakes at Laurel Park.