LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) — The Breeders’ Cup is making major changes to its nomination process in hopes of luring more international horses to the season-ending championships.
Beginning in 2011, all foals nominated by Breeders’ Cup nominated international stallions will be automatically eligible to participate in Breeders’ Cup races.
The Breeders’ Cup will also pay the entry fee and subsidize the travel costs for eligible winners of the “Win and You’re In” Challenge races. The Breeders’ Cup scheduled 66 Challenge races this year, with 50 in the U.S. and Canada and 16 in Europe, Asia and Australia. The 2011 Challenge schedule will be announced later this year.
Breeders’ Cup president and CEO Greg Alvioli said the changes were vital to ensuring that the top international horses would compete in the championships.
