SHAKOPEE, MN – As Minnesota emerges from its annual dalliance with the Polar Vortex, there are signs that the racing season is edging closer and closer – the cancellation of racing at Oaklawn, Sam Houston, etc. notwithstanding.
SMITH NAMED CHIEF STEWARD
With the retirement of Chief Steward David Hooper, the Racing Committee of the Minnesota Racing Commission recommended Steward David Smith as Chief Steward for the 2021 season. Steward Stan Bowker will be back in the booth as well while the Commission continues to look for a third steward. The recommendation was ratified by the full Commission February, 18.
At Running Aces, Robert Corey will be back as Presiding Judge while Peter Hanley will also be back as a racing judge. The Commission is reviewing proposals for the third judge.
HOVDA RETURNS AS CHIEF VET
Dr. Lynn Hovda, DVM, will be back as the Chief State Veterinarian for the 2021 season. The procurement process is currently underway for additional regulatory vets for the upcoming season.
CONDITION BOOK, STAKE NOMS SENT
Horsemen will be receiving a packet from Canterbury Park with the first condition book of 2021, Stakes nomination papers, stall application and an outline for the shipping loan program as well as the Participation Incentive Program for 2021.
This year’s participation incentive is $1,000 for every start in an open-company overnight race between May 18 – 31. Unlike prior years, this incentive is NOT included in the advertised purse in Condition Book 1 and will be paid out directly through the Bookkeeper.
The packet also outlines the guaranteed purse payment for 2021 which are tired by purse level from $175 for races carrying a purse under $14,999 to $2000 for race carrying a purse of $200,000 or higher.
WALZ INCREASES CAPACITY
With the state-wide capacity restrictions being eased for gatherings, Canterbury gets some relief just as the popular Road to Kentucky handicapping contest gets into full swing. The former limit was 150 per level which forced Canterbury to open the mezzanine level to accommodate the overflow. With a 250 patron limit there should be no issues with everyone being accommodated on the 3rd level and will also increase the level of play in the card club.
February is getting ready to turn to March and the older horses will be heading back into training after the winter off and 2-year-olds are starting to learning the business of being a racehorse. May 18 feels like it is (almost) just around the corner.
