Canterbury Park racing officials today released the first condition book for the 54-day race meet that begins Saturday, May 27. Daily average purse distribution is expected to be $220,000. The initial book covers the first 11 days of racing through June 18 with turf and dirt races offered each day.
“We are happy to be offering a wide range of conditions for our trainers and owners on both dirt and turf,” Sr. Director of Racing Operations Chris Merz said. “Over the last few seasons, we have seen a rise in the number of turf races used. We plan on building upon that this meet.”
In 2022, Canterbury averaged 2.9 turf races per day. The seven-furlong inner grass course can accommodate multiple distances from five furlongs to 1 1/16th miles using the turf chute. Eight stakes will be contested on the turf this season including five on Wednesday, June 21, the Northern Stars Turf Festival.
Maiden special weight purses for open company are set at $27,000. The condition book along with stall applications can be found at canterburypark.com/horsemen/. Earlier this month officials at the Shakopee, Minn. racetrack announced a starter incentive bonus that will pay the owner of each starter $700 per start through the first eight days of racing as well as a shipping loan program and guaranteed minimum purse payments for the entire meet.
Merz and Racing Operations Manager Amber Carlisle have begun an aggressive recruiting tour that will take them to tracks in Kentucky, Florida, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Illinois. Racing Secretary Rob Junk holds a similar position at Turf Paradise in Phoenix, a source of many horses that summer at Canterbury.
“I am looking forward to visiting with trainers to explain the array of options available to them at the meet,” Merz said. “Canterbury Park is gearing up to be the hot spot of the summer.”
Questions about the upcoming meet can be emailed to acarlisle@canterburypark.com . The season concludes Sept. 16.
