Claiming Horses: The Backbone of the Sport Few Talk About

They may not draw headlines, but claiming horses are the engine that keeps the sport of horse racing running.

What Is a Claiming Race?

A claiming race is a type of race in which every horse entered is available for purchase at a predetermined price. That price is known as the claiming tag. Owners and trainers can put in a claim before the race, essentially purchasing a horse based on past performance, condition, and potential.

Once the race begins, the claim is locked in. Regardless of how the horse runs or if it finishes the race, the new owner takes possession once the race is official. The trainer also changes immediately following the race.

Why Claimers Matter

Claiming horses help keep the racing product consistent. Tracks rely on full fields to create competitive betting opportunities, and the claiming ranks ensure there is always a deep pool of runners ready to go. These horses also give smaller barns a shot to stay active and grow, without needing to purchase young, untested horses at auction.

In some cases, claiming horses even go on to become stakes winners. While rare, it's not unheard of for a sharp claim to blossom into a high-level runner when placed in the right hands.

Inside the Claiming Process

Claims are submitted confidentially prior to the race. If multiple claims are submitted for the same horse, a random draw determines who gets the horse. After the race, the horse is immediately transferred to its new connections, with paperwork handled by the racing office and state regulators.

There are also rules in place to protect the welfare of the horse, such as mandatory post-race exams and, in many jurisdictions, temporary claiming restrictions that prevent quick flips.

Strategy Behind the Moves

Claiming is not just about filling races. It is a game of evaluation and timing. Some trainers look to "drop" a horse in class to find a winning spot, while others may "reach" up the ladder to see if a horse can handle better competition. Sharp horsemen study condition books and past performances, always looking for the right time to claim or enter a horse for a price.

For owners, the claiming game offers an entry point into the sport without the cost of breeding or sales. With the right claim and a good plan, it can become a profitable and rewarding endeavor.

Conclusion

Claiming horses may not come with the fanfare of elite stakes winners, but they are essential to the day-to-day operations of horse racing. They offer opportunity, excitement, and plenty of intrigue for those willing to play the game. Every horse has a story, and many of them start with a simple claiming slip.