Allowance Optional Claiming (AOC) is a type of horse racing event where each horse is eligible to either race for the purse money or be claimed by another owner. When a horse is claimed, the new owner assumes responsibility for the horse’s entry fees, training expenses, and other costs associated with racing. The claiming price is set before the race and is determined by the horse’s earning potential and the condition of the track. Allowance Optional Claiming races are typically run at moderate distances, with purses ranging from $10,000 to $20,000.
History of Allowance Optional Claiming
Allowance Optional Claiming has been a staple of the horse racing industry since the mid-1930s. It was originally created to allow owners to claim horses they thought had potential, while still allowing them to compete in races. The claiming price was originally set based on the horse’s performances in previous races, but this has since changed. Today, the claiming price is determined by the horse’s earning potential and the condition of the track.
The Benefits of Allowance Optional Claiming
Allowance Optional Claiming offers a number of benefits for horse owners and trainers. It allows owners to claim horses they believe have potential, while still giving them the opportunity to compete in races. It also allows trainers to assess the abilities of their horses in a competitive environment, and gives them a chance to prove themselves against other trainers.
How Allowance Optional Claiming Works
Allowance Optional Claiming races are typically run at moderate distances, with purses ranging from $10,000 to $20,000. Before the race, the claiming price is determined by the horse’s earning potential and the condition of the track. During the race, each horse’s owner has the option to either race for the purse money or offer their horse for claiming. If the horse is claimed, the new owner is responsible for the horse’s entry fees, training expenses, and other costs associated with racing.
The Rules of Allowance Optional Claiming
There are a few rules that must be followed when racing in Allowance Optional Claiming events. Firstly, all horses must be four years of age or older. Secondly, the claiming price must be set within a range determined by the track. Thirdly, all claiming must be done during the race, and the horse must be claimed by the end of the race. Fourthly, the claiming price is non-negotiable, and the new owner assumes responsibility for the horse’s entry fees, training expenses, and other costs associated with racing.
Types of Allowance Optional Claiming
There are two types of Allowance Optional Claiming races: handicap and non-handicap. In non-handicap races, each horse is given the same weight, while in handicap races, horses are given different weights based on their past performances. While non-handicap races are more popular, handicap races can be more lucrative for the owner of the horse that wins.
Purse Money in Allowance Optional Claiming
The purse money in Allowance Optional Claiming races is typically split between the winner, second place, and third place finishers. The exact amount of the purse money varies, but is usually between $10,000 and $20,000. The winner of the race typically takes home the majority of the purse money, with the second and third place finishers receiving smaller amounts.
The Pitfalls of Allowance Optional Claiming
While Allowance Optional Claiming offers many benefits for owners and trainers, there are a few pitfalls to be aware of. Firstly, the claiming price is non-negotiable, which can be problematic for owners who want to purchase a horse at a lower price. Secondly, the claiming price is determined by the horse’s earning potential and the condition of the track, so the claiming price can vary significantly from race to race. Finally, if a horse is claimed, the new owner is responsible for the horse’s entry fees, training expenses, and other costs associated with racing.
Tips for Success in Allowance Optional Claiming
For Owners
- Know your horse: Make sure you understand your horse’s strengths and weaknesses. This will help you determine the best claiming price and set realistic expectations.
- Set an appropriate claiming price: Make sure the claiming price is low enough to attract buyers, but high enough that you won’t be giving away your horse for free.
- Be prepared for the claiming process: Make sure you are familiar with the claiming process and all the paperwork involved.
For Trainers
- Know the competition: Make sure you are familiar with the competition, as this will help you determine the best strategy for your horse.
- Be prepared for the claiming process: Make sure you are familiar with the claiming process and all the paperwork involved.
- Focus on the race, not the claiming: Make sure you focus on the race rather than the claiming process, as this will help you get the best results for your horse.
Conclusion
Allowance Optional Claiming is a great way for owners and trainers to assess their horses’ abilities in a competitive environment. It also offers a number of benefits, including the opportunity to claim horses with potential and the chance to compete in races. However, it is important to be aware of the pitfalls of Allowance Optional Claiming, including the non-negotiable claiming price and the responsibility of the new owner for all costs associated with racing. With the right strategies, owners and trainers can have success in Allowance Optional Claiming races.