Also-Eligible
Also called: AE, also-eligible list
An also-eligible is a horse entered in a race that drew more entries than starting spots — it gets in only if another horse scratches.
Every race has a maximum field size; entries beyond it go on an 'also-eligible list' in order. If a scratch opens a spot before the deadline, the first also-eligible draws in; if not, that horse doesn't run. Trainers sometimes enter knowing they're likely an also-eligible, hoping to draw in.
Examples
- arrow_rightShe was first also-eligible and drew into the race when a horse scratched Friday morning.
- arrow_rightHe's an also-eligible, so we won't know until tomorrow whether he runs.