The New York Sire Stakes offers a three-tiered program for two- and three-year-old horses of all racing abilities. It also provides horses with the opportunity to learn and grow in multiple legs during the racing season while moving toward lucrative finals for the best performers at all three levels.

The SIRE STAKES allow the most talented horses to shine in the "Big Leagues" of New York-bred racing. Starting fees are two percent of the purse. The top horses in each of the eight divisions, by means of accumulated points, then compete in the championships at the end of the season.

The EXCELSIOR series for each division provides an opportunity for horses that still need time to develop at a slightly less competitive level - earning money while they go. Declaration fees are $100.

The COUNTY FAIR program provides racing opportunities for young horses to "earn as they learn." A total of 22 county fairs across the state host events for each of four age and gait divisions. Starting fees are $50. The top series point earners are eligible to compete in the finals held at pari-mutuel tracks.

Points for the Sire Stakes, Excelsior and County Fairs are distributed based on the official order of finish: First=50 points, Second=25 points, Third=12 points, Fourth=8 points, Fifth=5 points. The Sire Stakes conditions stipulate that the top eight or nine (track appropriate) point earners who have started in at least three legs will receive preference for entry in the final.