Record number of early nominations for Claiming Crown

The Claiming Crown, a $600,000 day for claiming horses, returns to Canterbury

Park in Shakopee, Minnesota, this year and horsemen from all sections of the

country and Canada appear eager to be part of it. The Claiming Crown was held at

Philadelphia Park in 2002 and at Ellis Park last year.

More than 200 horses, which have started at least once since January 1, 2007

for claiming prices ranging from $7,500 to $35,000, have been nominated to the

seven-race program on August 2.

"This will be the eighth time we have hosted this event, and this is the

largest number of early nominations we have ever received," Canterbury Park

President Randy Sampson said.

Owners and trainers living in 29 different states and Canada have submitted

nominations, including Richard Englander, whose colors have been worn by four

Claiming Crown winners; trainer Scott Lake, who has saddled eight winners; and

trainer Mike Maker, who won three Claiming Crown races at Ellis Park.

Nominations close June 13, which is also the deadline for names to be

submitted for open nominations made in April. For additional information,

contact Claiming Crown coordinator Nat Wess at 800-340-6361 ext. 6411 or visit

www.claimingcrown.com.