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From Zia Park Racetrack

Average daily purse distribution at Zia Park Racetrack will increase to more than $300,000, which should attract top racehorses from throughout the Midwest and western United States.

The 53-date season at Zia Park starts Sept. 13 and continues through Dec. 9. Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing is offered on a Saturday-through-Tuesday schedule. There will  be a special program Nov. 28, the day after Thanksgiving. First post time will be 12:15 p.m. each day.

Last year, average daily purse distribution was $240,000. The projected boost to $300,000 represents a 17.9% increase. Overnight purses averaged $170,000 each racing day last year, and are expected to reach $200,000 per day this year for an increase of 14%.

“This shows our exceptional growth and how the horsemen and the local community benefits from racing at Zia Park,” assistant general manager Rick Baugh said.

Older New Mexico-bred allowance horses will compete for $39,700 purses, while state-bred $5,000 claiming horses will run for $15,400 purses.