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What Is a Claiming Race in Horse Racing? A Complete Guide

Last updated: January 1, 2025

By: Miles HenryFact Checked

Claiming races are a vital part of the horse racing world, offering opportunities for owners, trainers, and bettors alike. With over 25 years of experience as a racehorse owner and trainer, I’ve gained a deep understanding of these races, from uncovering hidden talent to managing the risks involved.

This guide combines my firsthand experiences with industry insights and authoritative data to help you navigate the complexities of claiming races. Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned enthusiast, this article provides strategies, practical advice, and insider knowledge to make informed decisions in claiming races.

Horse crossing the finish line to win $10,000 claiming race at Fairgrounds Race Course.
A $10,000 claiming race winner crossing the finish line at Fairgrounds Race Course.

What Are Claiming Races?

In Thoroughbred racing, a claiming race is a type of race where horses are up for sale at a specified claiming price until shortly before the race. These races are considered the entry-level category, sitting below maiden special weight and allowance races in the hierarchy. While they may lack the prestige of higher-tier races, claiming races play a critical role in the sport by fostering competition and facilitating horse sales.

Prevalence in the Industry

Claiming races dominate the U.S. racing landscape. For instance, in 1999, 54% of all races in Kentucky were claiming races, even though they offered the lowest average purse. This dynamic makes claiming races a unique intersection of competition and commerce, offering a steady flow of opportunities for stables to trade talent. (Source: National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA))

Data from Major Tracks

Here’s a snapshot of claiming race activity at major U.S. tracks based on 2022 data:

TrackNumber of Claiming Races (2023)Number of Horses Claimed (2022)Total Amount Claimed (2022)Average Claiming Price (2022)
Churchill Downs150125$3,500,000$23,333
Santa Anita Park3528$719,000$34,286
Oaklawn Park600560$9,114,750$16,667

(Data for 2023 will be updated as it becomes available.)

Horses competing in a close finish during $20,000 claiming race at Santa Anita Park.
Close finish in a competitive $20,000 claiming race at Santa Anita Park.

How the Claiming Process Works

The claiming process involves several key steps:

  1. Submitting a Claim:
    • Licensed owners must submit a claim slip before the race. The claiming price is fixed and non-negotiable.
    • In Ireland, claims are lodged by telephone within 15 minutes after the “Winner All Right” announcement, naming the proposed trainer. Only one claim can be lodged per person.
  2. Pre-Race Inspections:
    • Horses are made available for inspection at the training stables. Inspecting the horse in the paddock before the race is a critical step to assess soundness and fitness.
  3. Post-Race Outcomes:
    • Ownership transfers immediately after the race if the claim is successful. Buyers assume all risks, including injuries sustained during the race. The original owner retains any prize money and remains responsible for race entry fees.

To enhance your evaluation skills, here are some advanced tips based on my 25 years of experience:

Spotting Hidden Potential

I once claimed a horse with a modest racing record but noticed he consistently made late moves in his races. After careful training, we developed him into a closer, and he later excelled in allowance-level races. Spotting traits like stamina or a strong finishing kick can reveal opportunities for improvement.

Avoiding a Bad Claim

In one case, I narrowly avoided claiming a horse with a seemingly strong record but noticed during pre-race paddock inspection that he had a slight hitch in his walk. A post-race report revealed he was carrying a lingering injury. Always trust your instincts and consult a trainer if anything seems off.

Understanding Claiming Mechanics

What is a Claim Slip?

A claim slip is an official document used by licensed owners or their representatives to purchase a horse entered in a claiming race. It includes the horse’s name, the claiming price, and the name of the intended trainer. The claim slip must be submitted before the race, usually at the racing office or a designated area, and cannot be withdrawn once filed. In jurisdictions like Ireland, claims are submitted by phone within 15 minutes after the “Winner All Right” announcement.

What is a Shake?

A shake occurs when multiple parties submit a claim for the same horse. In these cases, the racing stewards conduct a random draw—often using numbered pills or a similar method—to determine the new owner. This process ensures fairness when demand exceeds supply for a particular horse.

What Does “Dropping in Class” Mean?

Dropping in class refers to entering a horse in a race with less competitive opponents or a lower claiming price than its previous races. This strategy is often used to rebuild a horse’s confidence or find a more suitable competitive level.

Mindy, a promising filly, preparing for $10,000 claiming race.
Mindy, a promising filly, heading to the gate for a $10,000 claiming race.

Evaluating a Horse for Claiming

Before submitting a claim, carefully evaluate the following factors:

Pedigree

When evaluating a horse’s pedigree, look for:

  • Proven Bloodlines: Check for sires and dams that have produced successful racehorses.
  • Specialization: Match the pedigree to the race type. For example, sprinting bloodlines may excel in shorter races, while stamina-focused pedigrees are better suited for distance events.
  • Generational Success: Look for consistent success across multiple generations to ensure durability and potential.

Past Performances

To evaluate past performances effectively:

  • Trends: Identify patterns of improvement or decline. A horse finishing consistently closer to the leaders over recent races may indicate rising form.
  • Surface and Distance: Pay attention to how the horse performs on different track surfaces (e.g., turf vs. dirt) and over varying distances.
  • Race Context: Analyze the quality of competition in prior races. A horse that finished mid-pack in a high-caliber field may still have strong potential.
Horses approaching the finish line in a claiming race.
Horses approaching the finish line in a claiming race.

Soundness and Fitness

When inspecting a horse for soundness and fitness:

  • Physical Signs: Look for even gaits, clear eyes, and well-defined muscles. Swelling or uneven movement can indicate underlying issues.
  • Behavior: Alertness and calmness in the paddock can signal good health and mental readiness.
  • Hooves and Legs: Examine the legs for scars or heat, and ensure the hooves are in good condition without cracks or excessive wear.

My experience has shown how evaluating these factors carefully can lead to remarkable success stories:

I once claimed a young filly in a $5,000 race whose promising pedigree was overshadowed by inconsistent performances. After adjusting her feeding regimen and tailoring her workouts, she blossomed into a stakes winner within six months.

Another example is a gelding I claimed in a $10,000 race. Despite an unremarkable record, I recognized his potential on turf. After shifting his schedule to turf races, he won three consecutive starts, proving how claiming races can uncover hidden talent and transform underperforming horses into competitive athletes.

Best Practices for Claiming Racehorses

  1. Inspect the Horse:
    • Examine the horse in the paddock for signs of fitness and soundness. Look for alert behavior, a healthy coat, and even gaits. Consulting with a trusted trainer can help you spot potential issues before making a claim.
  2. Assess Claiming Prices:
    • Higher-priced claiming races often feature higher-quality horses, while lower levels may involve older or less competitive horses. Weigh the claiming price against the potential value the horse could bring to your stable.
  3. Consider the Competition:
    • Evaluate the overall quality of the field. Horses dropping in class may regain confidence and perform well against weaker competitors. I once claimed a gelding in a lower-tier race who quickly regained form, outperforming expectations after finding his stride against less competitive fields.

For more insights and strategies, explore my comprehensive guide: How to Evaluate Horses in Claiming Races: Tips for Buyers.”

Horses racing in a claiming event at New Orleans Fairgrounds.
Horses racing in a claiming event at New Orleans Fairgrounds.

Risks for Buyers and Sellers

Claiming races involve inherent risks for both parties:

Hidden Injuries

Hidden injuries are a significant risk in claiming races. These issues often manifest subtly:

  • Signs of Trouble: Look for irregular gaits, reluctance to move freely, or swelling in the legs.
  • Pre-Race Paddock Inspection: Pay close attention to how the horse walks and trots. Use a trusted trainer or veterinarian’s opinion to confirm fitness.
  • Post-Race Diagnostics: Once claimed, invest in a thorough veterinary check to catch any issues early.

Seller Risks

Entering a horse in a claiming race can be a strategic gamble. Common risks include:

  • Losing a Promising Horse: Horses that show signs of improvement during training but are entered in a claiming race may be picked up by a rival. To mitigate this risk, consider entering the horse in a higher claiming price race.
  • Reputation Management: Overuse of claiming races to unload underperforming horses can impact a trainer’s or owner’s reputation. Strategic placement of horses is critical to avoid this perception.

Did You Know?
Many racehorses, including champions like Seabiscuit, started their careers in claiming races. A struggling horse in one barn might thrive with new training and care, showcasing the unique opportunities these races provide. Check out this article: Claiming Races to Champion Racehorse

Seabiscuit with his trainer after winning $2,500 claiming race.
Seabiscuit with his trainer, following his $2,500 claiming race.

Distinction Between Maiden Claiming Races and Other Claiming Races

Maiden claiming races are specifically for horses that have never won a race. These races provide:

  • Opportunities for New Talent: Many young or unproven horses start in maiden claiming races to gauge their potential.
  • Lower Risk for Buyers: Since these horses are often lightly raced, they may have fewer wear-and-tear issues compared to seasoned claimers.

Contrast this with open claiming races, which include horses of varying experience levels. The stakes in open claiming races are often higher, as buyers must consider both performance history and potential risks.

The Importance of Claiming Races

Claiming races serve as the backbone of horse racing, contributing to its ecosystem in several key ways:

  1. Supporting Smaller Stables:
    • Smaller operations rely on claiming races to acquire affordable, competitive horses. This provides an entry point into higher levels of competition and helps them build reputations.
  2. Strategic Roster Management:
    • Larger stables use claiming races to maintain a dynamic roster, offloading underperformers while acquiring horses better suited to their goals.
  3. Stimulating Competition:
    • Claiming races create balanced fields by grouping horses of similar value, ensuring fair competition for bettors and spectators.
  4. Economic Flow:
    • These races enable frequent transactions, ensuring liquidity in the marketplace. This dynamic benefits owners, trainers, and breeders alike.
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FAQs on Claiming Races: Common Questions Answered

If you’re new to claiming races, it’s natural to have questions. Here are some quick answers to help you understand the basics.

Who can participate in claiming races?

Owners, trainers, and authorized buyers with the necessary licenses can participate in claiming races. These individuals are responsible for entering horses and making claims.

How is the claiming price determined?

Track authorities determine claiming prices, but owners strategically choose races that match their horse’s perceived value.

What happens if a horse is claimed in a race?

When a horse is claimed, the new owner assumes ownership immediately after the race. However, any prize money won in that race goes to the original owner.

What is a “shake” in claiming races?

In a claiming race, a “shake” occurs when multiple individuals or stables submit claims for the same horse. Since only one party can acquire the horse, the process to determine the new owner involves a random draw. Typically, numbered tokens are used, and a racing steward oversees the draw to ensure fairness.

Are claiming races a good starting point for new owners in horse racing?

Claiming races can be an accessible entry point for new owners, as they offer opportunities to acquire horses and gain experience. However, careful research and guidance are essential.

What does G3 mean in horse racing?

G3 denotes the horse race is a grade 3 stakes race. Many G3 races are open to horses that have not won a graded stakes race before, making them an important stepping stone for many young thoroughbreds.

Filly claimed in a $5,000 claiming race and placed second in her next start.
This filly I claimed in a $5,000 race and later she became a consistent performer.

Conclusion

Claiming races are a cornerstone of horse racing, blending competition with strategic decision-making. By understanding the claiming process, evaluating horses carefully, and considering the risks, you can navigate this dynamic aspect of the sport with confidence.

Winning a claiming race at Fairgrounds Race Course in New Orleans.
Our winning moment in a claiming race at Fairgrounds Race Course in New Orleans.

Take Action: Join the Community

Ready to dive deeper into the world of horse racing? Here’s how you can get involved:

  • Subscribe for Exclusive Insights: Stay ahead with insider strategies, success stories, and expert tips by subscribing to our newsletter. As a bonus, receive a free “Horse Buyers Checklist” to guide your next claim.
  • Ask the Experts: Got questions? Reach out directly to me at mileshenry@horseracingsense.com. I’m happy to share advice and help you succeed.
  • Join the Conversation: Share your claiming race experiences or ask questions in the comments section below. Let’s learn from each other and grow together as a community.
  • Spread the Word: Found this guide helpful? Share it with your friends, social networks, or racing community to help others discover the excitement and opportunities in claiming races.

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Miles Henry

About the Author: Miles Henry

Miles Henry is a lifelong horseman with over 25 years of experience owning and training Thoroughbred racehorses. He shares expert insights from his personal experiences growing up with horses, including Quarter Horses and Appaloosas, and currently owns seven Thoroughbreds in training.

Learn more about Miles Henry