The claiming race can also serve as an instrument for selling Thoroughbreds. Horses are entered into different races depending on their relative value. Heats with higher claiming prices, such as those near $50,000, are reserved for horses with a higher class. Those who are interested in purchasing the Thoroughbreds simply drop their names into the "claims box," and when the horse finishes the race it belongs to its new owner, regardless of the horse's performance. If there is more than one claimant, lots are drawn to determine the winner. Those horses that are not claimed still belong to their original owners.

The allowance race is for Thoroughbreds that are judged on their past performances. In these races, an "allowance"is made in order to equalize the different levels of ability among competitors. A track official, known as the racing secretary, takes into account the horse's experience by accounting for the number of races won as well as the amount of money the horse has earned. Then, allowances are made for less-experienced horses. For instance, an allowance may be made for horses that are more accustomed to carrying less weight. These horses may be allowed to carry less weight than their competitors simply due to a lack of experience. These horses are placed together in the same heat so competition is somewhat equalized.

Stakes races are for horses of the highest class and competitive ability. Horses in these races are often assigned the same weight. However, certain weight adjustments are normally made for stakes races that are open to both sexes. The purses for these races are usually the largest because of the intensity of the competition and the large crowds they attract. Purses are usually distributed to the first through fourth place. Handicap races are types of stakes races in which events include horses that have differing abilities. In handicaps, superior horses are assigned to carry more weight than those with proportionately less talent.