The Maryland Hunt Cup Association has announced a new early nomination process for the 116th running of the event on April 28 in Glyndon. The new process is intended to create more excitement about the race, earlier, as spectators and sportswriters will know which horses are aiming for the Hunt Cup and will be able to follow their favorite during the spring timber season. Nominations will continue to be handled by the National Steeplechase Association office.

Horses nominated by March 13, 2012, will pay a nomination fee of only $25. Horses nominated after March 13, 2012 will pay a supplemental fee of $500. All other fees will remain the same: $300 additional to enter, Tuesday, April 24; $500 additional if not scratched on Wednesday, April 25; $600 additional to start.

For further information, please contact: National Steeplechase Association (410-392-0700) or Sherlock Gillet Jr., Secretary (410-825-3722).