by Jerry Connors, for the Pennsylvania Harness Racing Commission

Harrisburg, PA — Breeders of mares to Pennsylvania stallions during 2010, hoping to get foals in 2011, are reminded that in order to be eligible to receive the highly-lucrative top level of Pennsylvania Breeders Awards, they must register these mares and their matings with the Pennsylvania Standardbred Breeders Development Fund, administrated by the State Racing Commissions, by Dec. 31, 2010.

In order to have a foal, by then a racehorse, generate the higher rate of return for the breeder, that mare must reside in Pennsylvania for 180 contiguous days, including the birthing of her foal in Pennsylvania. Mares who do not fulfill these requirements receive Breeders Awards, but the percentage of reward they generate per racing dollar is much lower.

The proper forms for Breeders Fund registration are available online at www.agriculture.state.pa.us; click on Commissions, then Racing Commissions, then Forms. They are also available by calling 717.787.5539.