MTHA Approves Increase in Purse Distribution for 6th Place–Last

At its September 9 open Board meeting, the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (MTHA) Board of Directors voted unanimously to increase the purse allocation for finishers from 6th place through last in overnight races. The payout, which had been fixed at $300 since April 2022, will now rise to $500, effective immediately.

A Look Back at Purse Distribution Changes

Maryland’s overnight purse distribution has evolved in recent years in response to industry needs and input from horsemen:

• Prior to July 2021: Overnight purses paid 57% for 1st, 21% for 2nd, 11% for 3rd, 6% for 4th, and 4% from 5th through last.
• July 2021 – April 2022: Overnight races paid 60% to 1st, 20% to 2nd, 10% to 3rd, 5% to 4th, 4% to 5th through last.
• April 2022 – September 2025: Overnight purses paid 60% to 1st, 20% to 2nd, 10% to 3rd, 5% to 4th, 3% to 5th, 2% to 6th and $300 7th through last.
• Effective September 12, 2025: The Board increased the minimum purse payout from $300 to $500 for all starters from 7th through last. 6th place will be 2% or $500, whichever is greater.

Supporting Owners and Field Size

The decision reflects MTHA’s ongoing commitment to supporting owners across all finishing positions and encouraging participation that strengthens field size. While purse distribution at the top remains highly competitive, the increased payment at the back end offers meaningful relief to owners and trainers facing the rising costs of participation.

MTHA President Katharine M. Voss noted, “This adjustment is about fairness and sustainability. Every owner who invests in racing deserves meaningful support, regardless of where their horse finishes.”