Turfway Park and Cincinnati's Horseshoe Casino are partnering in an attempt to boost attendance and attract big name race horses to its premier event.
Turfway Marketing Director Jack Gordon says the casino is investing more than $150,000 to bring the Spiral Stakes purse to $550,000.
"When that purse structure goes up at your property, bigger horses - it really gains more popularity out there in the horse industry - go to those races that have the bigger purses," says Gordon.
The Spiral Stakes winner earns an automatic bid to the Kentucky Derby.
Rock Ohio Caesar's owns Turfway and Horseshoe Cincinnati.
The 42nd running of the Spiral Stakes is March 23rd.