Lane's End Stakes moved to March 27

The date for the 2010 Lane's End S. (G2), Turfway Park's prep race for the

Kentucky Derby (G1), has been changed to March 27, a week later than the 1

1/8-mile test traditionally has been run.

"We looked at several factors in making the decision to move the Lane's End,"

Turfway President Robert N. Elliston said. "First, running the race five weeks

before the Derby instead of the traditional six weeks should mesh with the trend

toward giving horses more time between major races. Trainers can more

comfortably make the Lane's End their final prep.

"In addition, March 27 is also the date of the Dubai World Cup (UAE-G1), and

the interest that card generates among bettors should mean more eyes will be on

the Lane's End as well. Finally, March weather in Northern Kentucky is always a

toss-up, and having an additional week gives us not only more time to promote

the race but also a better shot at crowd-friendly weather."

The other stakes traditionally run on Lane's End Stakes day -- the

Bourbonette Oaks (G3), Rushaway S., Queen S. and Hansel S. -- will also move to

March 27. The Fairway Fun S., already scheduled to run March 27, will remain on

that day.

The dates for Turfway's local preps leading to the Lane's End will not

change. The 6 1/2-furlong Turfway Prevue was run January 2, the one-mile WEBN S.

will take place on January 30 and the 1 1/16-mile John Battaglia Memorial S. is

scheduled for February 27.

Other events surrounding the Lane's End maintain their timing relative to the

race. The traditional Lane's End Stakes cap giveaway will be March 13 and the

30th annual commemorative glass giveaway is scheduled for March 20. Also set for

the 20th is the 9th annual Charity Night at the Tables.

The Call to the Post Luncheon and Post Position Draw will be held March 25,

consistent with the track's current entry schedule.