Participation Bonuses

As a further incentive to offset the cost of ownership in California, all owners are eligible for Starter Fees.

Starter Fees are paid to horses competing in overnight races, which finish sixth and beyond, and to fifth place finishers when their share of purse money is less than the corresponding Starter Fee, which are as follows:

• $350 per start in the South;
• $260 per start in the North; and,
• $130* per start at the Fairs on days when not overlapped with a “major” in their zone.

Such fees are paid directly to owners through the Paymaster’s Account. It is important to understand that the fees vary by circuit because not all circuits generate equal contributions to the overall fund created by this legislation. Consequently, the fees are being paid roughly in proportion to the total exotic wagering handle generated within each circuit.

* NOTE: Does not include any bonuses paid by the association in addition to that amount.