Finger Lakes Gaming & Racetrack, in conjunction with the Finger Lakes Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association (FLHBPA), announced Feb. 21 purse increases totaling $500,000 for the upcoming 2024 racing season.
The 63rd consecutive season of Thoroughbred racing is slated to begin April 29, pending New York State Gaming Commission approval.
Beginning with the first condition book, $5,000 claimers that are non-winners of the year or non-winners of four lifetime races will compete for $14,000. That is an increase of $1,400 or 11% over 2023 levels. There were 127 races that fit those conditions at Finger Lakes in 2023.
Maiden $11,000 claimers will race for $17,000, a $1,000 increase, while $11,000 claimers that are non-winners of the year or non-winners of four races will run for $18,100.
On the allowance side, purses will range from $26,000 for non-winners of two to $26,800 for non-winners of four. State-bred allowance races range from $24,500 to $26,000 for the third state-bred condition.
Purse levels for maiden special weight races, contested 88 times in 2023, will remain at $32,100. The bottom purse will be $13,500 for the maiden $5,000 claimers.
"We're thrilled to be able to raise purses for our hard working and dedicated horsemen and women," said Finger Lakes racing secretary Jerry Richards. "We thank the Finger Lakes HBPA on working with us to make this possible."
Anyone in need of a stall application should contact Richards at 585-924-3232. The deadline is Feb. 26.
