All races have a race category. Each race category has specific rules for eligibility and handicapping.

Eligibility determines which horses qualify for entry. Eligibility is based on Age, Sex, Wins, Non Wins and Non Places. Non Wins is the number of times run since last winning a race. Non Places is the number of times run since last winning stakes with a place or win result.

Handicapping means performance Penalties and Allowances (performance enhancers). Penalties add weight and Allowances reduce weight measured in pounds (lbs.). Download the weight calculator to learn more about this.

Eligibility and Handicapping rules encourage competition between horses of similar abilities as well as allow horses of different abilities to compete off a more level playing field.

Example:

W0-3; NPL3R; Win+3lbs; Sex-10lbs Eligibility – horse must have 3 or less wins and can be a maiden (0 wins); and must have not placed in last 3 runs (NPL3R)
Handicapping – A weight penalty of 3lbs will be added for each win greater than the base of 0 wins in this category; and fillies will get an allowance of 10lbs.