The Minnesota Racing Commission has authorized the payment of more than $59,000 in breeder awards to Standardbred breeders.
This record payout is a tenfold increase over 2016 payments and is due, in part, to Advance Deposit Wagering legislation passed last year. Since the legislative initiative to license ADW providers, a portion of the revenues generated from Minnesota residents wagering on horse racing is being returned to Minnesota’s horse racing industry, providing increased funding for purses, breeders’ awards, and expanded regulatory oversight.
“The Minnesota Standardbred Breeders’ Fund program is loaded with opportunity. Since it is a stallion-based program, you can breed your horse to a vastly improving Minnesota stallion roster and foal in your own state allowing breeders to basically double up on awards and eligibility,” stated Minnesota Racing Commission Deputy Director Joe Scurto. “Additionally, the $350,000 Minnesota Night of Champions program is fully funded by Running Aces and the Minnesota Breeders’ Fund, and currently requires no stake payments. There has never been a better time to breed to a Minnesota stallion than now.”
Minnesota Standardbreds earned just shy of $1.75 million in Minnesota alone in 2017. A total of 154 Minnesota bred horses earned qualifying purses at the 2017 Running Aces meet for their breeders. Some 111 individual mares earned awards for their owners. Wisconsin resident Alvin Martin was the top breeder in 2017 and will be receiving $8,458 in awards this year.
For more information on how to be a part of the Minnesota Breeders’ Fund contact Stephanie Neises at [email protected] or 651-925-3955.
(Minnesota Racing Commission)