The New York Sire Stakes (NYSS) Excelsior Series has been streamlined for the upcoming racing season, with the elimination of the Excelsior B Series, allowing for one program going forward.

Excelsior purses have been increased from $15,000 to $20,000 and County Fair purses have been increased from $24,000 to $30,000.

The 2023 eligibility payment forms for two-year-olds and three-year-olds are due Feb. 15 by 11:59 p.m. EST.

The forms can be found on the New York Sire Stakes website here. They must be mailed to the New York Sire Stakes Program at 230 Washington Avenue Extension, Suite 101, Albany, NY 12203.

Payments should be made out to The Agriculture & NYS Horse Breeding Development Fund. If your payment is refused or returned for any reason, please save all documentation and dated materials, including postmarks.

For those who have already mailed in Excelsior payments, they have not been processed. Please call 518-694-5002 or email [email protected] if you would like to void your payment.

(With files from Agriculture & NYS Horse Breeding Development Fund)