They are high end handicaps, generally 0-105 or 0-100 or 0-95.
Each horse has the option to be claimed at one of three pre set prices.
If you wish to be claimed for Price A, you can run in the handicap off a 2lb lower rating, for price B, for 4lb lower rating, for price C, for a 6lb lower rating.
Say you own a good solid 1m handicapper, who is rated say 95, but he can't win off that mark, but could win in that class, you can take the option to be allowed in off a lower mark and try and win but as a result you can be claimed at a set price.
The prices are different per race, but they aren't cheap prices. there was one at Goodwood earlier this year where a horse took a 4lb allowance and was in to be claimed for £40,000.
Optional Claimers are simple to explain.They are high end handicaps, generally 0-105 or 0-100 or 0-95.Each horse has the option to be claimed at one of three pre set prices.If you wish to be claimed for Price A, you can run in the handicap off a 2lb