Fort Washington, MD — The 2019 spring meet at Rosecroft Raceway kicks off on Wednesday (Feb. 6). During the break between meets, Cloverleaf Standardbred Owners Association and management at Rosecroft Raceway have been hard at work creating new opportunities to grow harness racing in Maryland.

The two parties agreed to an increase of the bonuses to Maryland-connected horses. Maryland-owned and bred horse bonuses will be increased to a 30 percent bonus, and Maryland-sired horses will be awarded a 50 percent bonus (bonuses will not be combined if the horse fits more than one of the categories).

Along with the increase in bonuses awarded to horses, the parties have agreed to offer a consolation race to Maryland Sire Stakes horses that do not make the finals if a minimum of five horses are entered. The consolation races will be held the same night as the Maryland Sire Stakes finals.

Maryland’s economy and horse industry are bolstered by having two of the largest breeding farms in the country within its borders. Taking that into consideration, the partners have agreed to give Maryland-foaled horses an entry preference. Entry preference and priority will be as follows: Maryland-owned or sired, Maryland-bred, and Maryland-foaled.

The parties have also partnered up with NAHU Picks, which will be providing full-card analysis on their website. Alongside the analysis, they will also offer a segment on their weekly show North American Harness Update.

Please visit the Rosecroft website to learn about upcoming promotions and events.