SANTA ANITA TO OPEN DECEMBER 26, STALL APPLICATIONS NOW BEING ACCEPTED

ARCADIA, Calif. (Oct. 26, 2010)—Stall applications are now being accepted for Santa Anita’s traditional winter/spring meeting, which opens Dec. 26. Currently closed for main track construction, Santa Anita is scheduled to reopen for training on Dec. 6.

Stall applications are now available to horsemen at www.santaanita.com and at racetracks and training centers throughout California. Applications are due to be returned to the Santa Anita Racing Office by Friday, Nov. 12.

The 2010/2011 race meeting will be the first conducted on a dirt surface since the winter/spring of 2006/2007. Along with the implementation of a natural dirt surface, it is estimated there will be a 25 percent increase in overnight purses, making the upcoming meet even more attractive to local and out-of-state horsemen.

“With the return to natural dirt and the prospect of significantly higher purses, it makes it easier for us to attract quality barns,” said Racing Secretary Rick Hammerle. “We’re already sensing a high degree of anticipation for this meet and we’ll be at the Breeders’ Cup next week in Kentucky recruiting horsemen to come to Santa Anita this winter. We’re very optimistic.”

Director of Racing Mike Harlow echoed Hammerle’s sentiments, noting, “Anytime you’re able to significantly increase your purses across the board, it’s a good thing. Along with the fact that we’ve resolved the situation with the main track, we expect a good response from horsemen this year.”

Santa Anita’s 76-day winter/spring meet will run through April 17. For more information, horsemen and fans are encouraged to visit www.santaanita.com or call (626) 574-RACE.

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