Keeneland Race Course announced Tuesday that its Shadwell Turf Mile, to be run on Oct. 4, will have a purse of $1 million, making it the track's first $1 million race.
Won two years ago by Horse of the Year Wise Dan, the stakes is receiving the $250,000 increase in partnership with Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum's Shadwell Farm, the race sponsor since 1999.
"Shadwell Farm has played a very special role in Keeneland's history for 30 years, actively supporting our racing program as both a sponsor and owner, and as a leading buyer at our sales," said Keeneland President and CEO Bill Thomason. "We sincerely thank Sheikh Hamdan and (vice president and general manager) Rick Nichols for their commitment to Thoroughbred racing, to Central Kentucky and to Keeneland."
Last year due to heavy rain, the Shadwell Turf Mile was moved from the grass course to the synthetic main track and conducted at 1 1/16 miles. Defending winner Wise Dan, last year's Horse of the Year as well, was upset by Silver Max.
The Shadwell Turf Mile is part of the Breeders' Cup "Win and You're In" series, giving the winner an automatic place in the Breeders' Cup Mile.
[SportsNetwork.com]
