Monmouth to Offer Owner/Trainer Bonuses in 2018

Monmouth Park | Sarah Andrew

Monmouth Park will kick off its 52-day meeting on Saturday, May 5–GI Kentucky Derby Day–with some added twists this season, including bonus money to owners and trainers who start horses at the meet. In non-state-bred races, all owners will be guaranteed a minimum of $500 per starter, while all trainers will receive $300 for each horse that runs. Bonuses will not apply to stakes races. In addition, Monmouth Park will offer free workers' compensation insurance. A blanket policy will be provided by the New Jersey Injury Compensation Board to cover employees of trainers stabled at Monmouth Park.

“Our primary goal is to increase field size,” said Dennis Drazin, chairman and CEO of Darby Development LLC, operators of Monmouth Park. “The wagering public has made it clear that they want full, competitive fields. Our bonus program and workers' comp plan will help us deliver what racing fans want. This new approach, particularly for New Jersey-bred runners who face open company, creates a reward system that benefits all participants, while simultaneously enhancing our primary objective of increased field size.”

The racetrack will host its first card one week earlier than in years past. To facilitate horses shipping to winter destinations, the stable area will remain open until Oct. 31. The 2018 live Monmouth Park meet will run from May 5 through Sept. 9, followed by six all-turf cards at the Meadowlands concluding Sept. 30. Stabling at Monmouth will be offered from Apr. 20 through Oct. 31.

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