How to Claim a Horse in Florida

There are different types of races that are held during meets at horse racing tracks. The most notable ones are stakes races, such as the Kentucky Derby, but typical races also include handicaps (where horses carry extra weight depending on well they have done in past races), maidens (races for horses who have never won a race) and claiming (where horses carry extra weight based on how much money it costs to claim them). Claims for horses happen during the time that the horses are called to the port until the time the last horse crosses the finish. Claiming a horse in Florida is similar to how it is in other states.

Things You'll Need

  • Pari-mutuel business license
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Instructions

    • 1

      Obtain a pari-mutuel business license from the state. Fill out the Business Occupational License Application form for the track you will be making the claim from, which is available online. Obtain fingerprint cards, which can be obtained at any of the four state horse racing tracks or local law enforcement office. Include the necessary fees, including the licensing fee of $50 and fingerprint card fee of $43.25 (as of 2011). Licenses are available either yearly or as a three-year license. The four tracks in Florida are Calder Race Course (Miami), Gulfstream Park (Hallandale), Pompano Park (Pompano Beach) and Tampa Bay Downs (Oldsmar).

    • 2

      Establish a stable at the horse track of your choice. Arrange for a trainer, veterinarian and farrier for your basic staff. Many trainers can make the arrangements for your staffing needs. Set up an off-track stable for periods when pari-mutuel racing is not in session.

    • 3

      Establish a financial account with the racetracks paymaster. This account holds all funds to be used for claiming horses. The funds need to be in the account prior to staking the claim for the racehorse.

    • 4

      Verify the racetrack's claiming rules. Some tracks state that ownership of the horse begins the second it stepped onto the track, while others state it doesn't occur until the race is completed. This is important in case there is any injury that occurs to the horse. The rules of ownership will vary from track to track.

    • 5

      Select the horse you wish to claim and fill out the claim slip. Claims should be completed prior to the beginning of the race. Claiming slips are generally available at the racing office. Verify that the information is correct and submit the form. If there are multiple claims, the racetrack will have preset rules that determine ownership.

    • 6

      Take possession of your newly claimed racehorse.