American Quarter Horse racing saw expansion in 2005, and the trend continues as statistics show considerable increases in 2006.

Year to date, American Quarter Horse purses are up to more than $23 million, an 18.5% increase from 2005. Total added money thus far has been greater than $19.5 million, a 17.8% surge.

The growth is further supported by the dramatic 47.2% increase in 2-year-old purses, exceeding $5.7 million, more than $3.6 million of which is added money, a 50.6% boost. Another major advance is occurring in 3-year-old and up purses that are in excess of $7.9 million, an increase of 22.9%.

“We are seeing a vast improvement in all facets of the American Quarter Horse racing industry,” said Trey Buck, AQHA Senior Director of Racing. “With purses and the number of races increasing, American Quarter Horse racing is moving in the right direction