Gulfstream to Host Claiming Crown Through 2021

Gulfstream Park's successful six-year run as host of the Claiming Crown has been rewarded with an extension to host the Breeders' Cup-like event for claiming horses through 2021, the track announced Sept. 6.

Keeping the nine-race, $1.11 million Claiming Crown at Gulfstream was recently approved by track owner The Stronach Group, the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association, the National Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association, and the Florida HBPA. The Claiming Crown will be held Dec. 1 this year during Gulfstream's premier winter meet.

"The Claiming Crown has grown into an exciting event at Gulfstream, and our fans look forward to kicking off the Championship Meet with this great series featuring many of the most popular horses in the country," said Gulfstream general manager Bill Badgett. "We will continue growing this event along with our great partners."

Gulfstream Park first held the Claiming Crown in 2012. A longer-term commitment followed in 2013 when Gulfstream became the first track to host the event consecutively since Canterbury Park, which hosted the inaugural Claiming Crown in 1999 and for 10 of the first 12 years. Since 2013, the total handle on the day's program has increased 35% from $8.8 million to a record $11.9 million in 2017.

"This event has grown in popularity with owners, trainers, and handicappers, who are without question the backbone of our industry," said Eric Hamelback, CEO of the National HBPA, "I am pleased to work together with TOBA in creating an event that has become a highlight of each year's racing calendar. Our goals, along with Gulfstream Park, will include raising the profile of the Claiming Crown with promotions throughout the country and qualifying races such as those found at Laurel Park and Kentucky Downs. We could not be more pleased to extend our partnership for an additional three years."

Dan Metzger, president of TOBA, said the relationship with Gulfstream Park has been a strong one.

"TOBA has a valued relationship with The Stronach Group and we have been fortunate to host six editions of the Claiming Crown in South Florida on the opening weekend of the Championship Meet," Metzger said. "The Claiming Crown has grown in stature and prestige and we are honored to continue our partnership with Gulfstream Park through 2021."

Stephen Screnci, president of the FHBPA, said the Claiming Crown has become a Gulfstream opening-day staple for South Florida horsemen.

"A lot of horsemen might not participate in the event if it was held at another venue, so we look forward to it this year and many years to come," Screnci said.