The Virginia Thoroughbred Association (VTA) unveiled a new “Nothing Like It” advertising campaign which emphasizes benefits to breeders of registered Virginia-bred horses — who earn bonuses for finishing first, second and third in any open race in North America. 

Up until last year, bonuses were only paid to horses who finished first in those races. Additionally, bonuses will be paid to the breeders of top three finishers at Colonial Downs and at National Steeplechase Association (NSA) sanctioned meets. In 2023, the first year this expanded program went into effect, payouts were 34% of purses earned. 

In order to qualify, a mare must be in Virginia by September 1 and reside there until she foals the following spring. The definition of a Virginia-bred thoroughbred horse is one that is foaled in the Commonwealth, whose dam resides at a Virginia participating facility from September 1st of the year of the foal’s conception through the foal’s date of birth, is registered by the Jockey Club, and is registered with the VTA.       

In addition to Breeder incentives, Owners and Developers of Virginia-bred horses also have opportunities to earn bonuses. Owners earn a 50% bonus when their Virginia-bred horse finishes first through fourth in an open race at Colonial Downs. 

Developers are eligible for a maximum 25% bonus for winning open races — including those at NSA meets — at tracks in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. There is a $10,000 cap on each individual award. A developer is defined as the person or entity listed on the chart as owner when a Virginia-bred horse makes its first lifetime start.

“Virginia’s racing and breeding industry has a lot of momentum now,” said VTA Executive Director Debbie Easter. “From our horsemen incentive programs to expanded racing opportunities at Colonial Downs beginning next year, these positive developments make it a perfect time now for horsemen, both locally and out-of-state, to invest in Virginia and reap the benefits of our breeder incentive programs. The future here looks healthy and robust.”

More details on the VTA’s incentive programs can be found at vabred.org.