According to a report, a trial period is currently taking place on Prince Edward Island where the parameters of claiming classes have been adjusted in attempt to

ensure the competitiveness and equalization of purse distribution within the bottom claiming levels.

In his column in The Guardian, Nick Oakes has explained that the bottom-end claiming level on PEI is for $3,000, yet that bottom end is higher than neighboring Nova Scotia (Truro Raceway, $2,000; Northside Downs, $800).

Oakes explains that a trial period is being run on PEI where there will be a winners over and under $3,000 claimer, a $4,000 to $5,000 claimer and a $6,000 to $8,000 claimer.

“What we want is a reasonable level of wagering, reinvestment in the industry, and a competitive group of horses,” Tom Clark, president of the PEI Standardbred Horseowner’s Association, was quoted as saying.

(With files from The Guardian)