Delaware To Offer Rich Stakes Schedule

An upgrade and purse increase to the Delaware Handicap highlights the $4.1 million stakes schedule at Delaware Park this year.

In early December, the North American Graded Stakes Committee upgraded the 1 1/4 mile contest for fillies and mares fromGrade III to Grade II status. Delaware Park responded by increasing the purse $150,000 to $750,000.

The 66th renewal of the Delaware Handicap is slated for July 20.

On July 19, 3-year-old fillies will be showcased in the $500,000 Delaware Oaks (gr. III) at 1 1/16 miles. The purse for the Delaware Oaks reflects an increase of $250,000. The Oaks card will be supported by the $150,000 Robert G. Dick Memorial Breeders' Cup for fillies and mares and the $100,000 R.R.M. Carpenter Jr. Memorial for 3-year-olds and up at 1 1/16 miles.