The Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation announced that a record $20 million has been paid out through the Kentucky Thoroughbred Breeders’ Incentive Fund to participating breeders for races won in 2024. Kentucky-breds had a successful year, winning 289 of 401 graded races in the U.S., including all three legs of the Triple Crown and 10 Eclipse awards, with Thorpedo Anna being named Horse of the Year.
Kentucky-breds have a strong presence in both domestic and international competitions, with horses like City of Troy and Laurel River being crowned co-holders of the Longines World’s Best Racehorse title. The KTBIF was established to support the Kentucky Thoroughbred industry by awarding breeders funds for winning qualifying races, with specific criteria for a foal to be designated as Kentucky-bred.
Drew Conners, the director of Incentives and Development at KHRGC, expressed excitement over rewarding Kentucky breeders for their success in breeding champions. A total of $20,019,601.10 was awarded to Kentucky Thoroughbred breeders in 2024, highlighting the importance of the program in supporting and recognizing the contributions of breeders in the industry.
