Maiden Dirt Bonus

A pair of Del Mar programs, "Ship & Win" and the maiden dirt bonus, again will enhance the summer meet purses when racing resumes for the seaside track's season starting Friday, July 18. The unique "Ship & Win" plan, presented for the 15th consecutive year, serves as a strong incentive for horses from out of state to race locally and intensify the track's reputation as one of the country's top facilities for field size. Nearly 3,000 horses have used the program since its beginnings in 2011 with the vast majority...

Del Mar will offer across-the-board purse increases when the oceanside oval opens for its 2025 season July 18. During its eight-week summer meet, Del Mar will present approximately 300 races with overnight purses projected to be $15.7 million--a blended increase of 8% over 2024 purses. The track will offer 38 stakes races valued at $7,825,000. With the overnight purse increases, the majority of the track's owners and trainers will be able to run in maiden special weight dirt races--both open and Cal-Bred--for purses of $100,000 as the track will again...

The Ship & Win Bonus and Maiden Dirt Bonus will return this summer for Del Mar's 85th season of racing. Entering its 14th consecutive season at Del Mar, the Ship & Win program provides an incentive for horses from out of state to race at the seaside oval by providing a guaranteed $4,000 check for any qualified runner in their first start at Del Mar. There is also a 40% bonus applied to purse winnings for that initial start, as well as any subsequent outings during the eight-week meet. As...