OVERNIGHT HORSES IN STAKES RACES

The highest-priced claiming horses on the grounds must be taken seriously in restricted stakes and in open stakes having purses below $100,000. The actual claiming prices will vary from track to track, with $62,500 a floor in New York and southern California. Local handicappers can readily substitute the price tags at their place.

At minor tacks the highest claiming prices might be $40,000 to $50,000, and the standouts there can tackle open stakes having purses below $50,000.

To win in a stakes, claiming horses should arrive in improving or peaking form, and they should demonstrate one of the top two numerical ratings in the field, based upon their two latest outings. The last out is much preferred, unless not representative due to a legitimate excuse.

In addition, it's reassuring if the trainer is competent - better still, excellent. Claiming horses in stumblebum hands rarely upset in a stakes. Not only are most of the horses outgunned, so are their trainers.

Claiming horses should also have impressed at today's exact distance, and when on turf or in the mud, should favor the footing. And the odds should attract the handicapper's interest. Do not support claiming horses in stakes races at regrettably low odds.

Can claiming horses win in listed, graded, and richer open stakes?

Not ordinarily.
Grade 1 and Grade 2 events are out of bounds.