Donald Smith, President of the Atlantic Standardbred Breeders Association (ASBA), announced today that the Atlantic Lottery Corporation will contribute $20,000 as a divisional sponsor of the Atlantic Sires Stakes program for the 2002 harness racing season.
"We are proud to give back to the community by supporting events like the Atlantic Sires Stakes," said Anne Cochrane, VP Corporate Marketing & Communications at ALC.
The ASBA presents the Atlantic Sires Stakes for two and three year old Maritime sired horses that participate in races at various regional racetracks throughout the summer months.
"The harness racing industry in the Maritimes provinces will benefit from ALC's participation," said Mr. Smith. "Atlantic Lottery's support will increase purses for the entire program."
The governments of Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia along with breeders, horse owners and racetracks contribute to the total purses of $800,000. Participating horses earn points throughout the year leading to the divisional championships, the Atlantic Breeders Crown, which will be held in October at the Charlottetown Driving Park.