Two of the six Breeders' Cup races created the past two years have been given Grade I status for 2009: the $1 million Filly and Mare Sprint and $1 million Dirt Mile.
The American Graded Stakes Committee of the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association released the complete list of graded stakes - those determined to be the best in the country. To be eligible, a stakes must be unrestricted (except for age or sex) with a purse of at least $75,000.
The 488 graded stakes for next year reflect an increase of seven from 2008. A total of 13 stakes were upgraded: six to Grade I status - including Keeneland's Vinery Madison - and seven bumped up to Grade II. There also will be 10 new Grade III races.
Four races that have been Grade III - including Turfway's Kentucky Cup Juvenile - will not be graded next year.
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