MTHA Increases Minimum Purse Payouts to Support All Starters

The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (MTHA) Board of Directors voted unanimously in September to increase purse allocations for finishers from sixth place through last in overnight races.

Effective September 12, 2025, the minimum payout for horses finishing seventh through last has been raised from $300 to $500. In addition, sixth place will now pay 2% of the purse or $500, whichever is greater.

This change marks the latest step in the MTHA’s commitment to ensuring fair and sustainable support for all owners. By boosting payouts at the back end of the purse distribution, the Board aims to help offset rising participation costs and encourage fuller, more competitive fields.

“This adjustment is about fairness and sustainability,” said MTHA President Katharine M. Voss. “Every owner who invests in racing deserves meaningful support, regardless of where their horse finishes.”

Background on Purse Distribution:

Maryland’s overnight purse structure has been adjusted several times in recent years to better reflect industry needs:

• Prior to July 2021: 57% to 1st, 21% to 2nd, 11% to 3rd, 6% to 4th, 4% split from 5th through last.

• July 2021–April 2022: 60% to 1st, 20% to 2nd, 10% to 3rd, 5% to 4th, 4% to 5th through last.

• April 2022–September 2025: 60% to 1st, 20% to 2nd, 10% to 3rd, 5% to 4th, 3% to 5th, 2% to 6th, and $300 for 7th through last.

 • Effective September 12, 2025: Minimum payout raised to $500 for 7th through last; 6th place is 2% or $500, whichever is greater.

This evolution reflects a balance between rewarding top finishes while ensuring broader financial relief across the field.

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