NY sire stakes boosts breeders award to $1.31M

By Blake Jackson

The New York Sire Stakes (NYSS) has significantly increased its Breeders Award program, offering a total of $1.31 million to eligible breeders for the 2024 season. This represents a substantial investment in the program, designed to stimulate New York's agricultural sector and support the breeding and racing of Standardbred horses.

The awards are based on residency and awarded to breeders who meet specific criteria. Eligible breeders must utilize New York-registered stallions and keep their mares in the state for at least 180 consecutive days during the breeding year. Additionally, the awards are only claimable when the mare's offspring places in the top 5 positions in any NYSS, Excelsior Series, or County Fair event as a 2- or 3-year-old.

This program directly impacts New York's agricultural industry, providing incentives for breeders and contributing to the state's thriving horse racing scene. In 2023, Boston Rocks, bred by Peter Blood and Rick Berks, emerged as the single largest award recipient, earning $45,429.30 in addition to $302,862 in purse winnings.

The NYSS, established in 1965, is the oldest harness racing program of its kind in the nation and serves as a model for state-bred programs. It focuses on encouraging the breeding, buying, and racing of Standardbred horses aged 2 and 3 years old. Stakes website at www.nysirestakes.com..

The program is funded by the Agriculture & NYS Horse Breeding Development Fund, a public benefit corporation dedicated to promoting agriculture through equine breeding and research. This organization administers the NYSS races, Excelsior/State Fair Series races, and County Fair Races, fulfilling its legislative mission to support the equine industry in New York State.

Photo Credit: new-york-farm-bureau