Philadelphia Park Gets 2002 Claiming Crown

The first three editions of the Claiming Crown, a joint venture between the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association and the National Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association, were held at Canterbury Park.

"We are excited about bringing this $550,000 day of racing to Philadelphia Park," said Bill Wamsley, chairman of the Claiming Crown and spokesman for the NBPA. "They have enthusiastically supported the event over the past three years."

Philadelphia Park, in southeast Pennsylvania, is in proximity to more than 10 racetracks in Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. Scott Lake, the leading trainer in the country by wins for 2001, has a large stable at Philly Park and been an active participant in the Claiming Crown. He won three races in the 2000 series.

The format will be identical to last year with six races offering purses between $50,000 and $150,000 for horses that have started for claiming prices between $5,000 and $25,000.

Nomination deadlines are as follows: May 14, $100 for named horses and $250 for horses to be named by June 28; June 28, $500 nomination; and Aug. 13 for supplemental nominations that equal 5% of the race purse.