In 2009, the Maryland Steeplechase Association board of directors voted to change the point system for the Maryland Governor's Cup series to bring the point distribution more in line with purse distribution and clarify issues that have come up in the past.

The Junior and Pony races will be pointed and awarded separately. Each pony division will be awarded (small, medium, large) with an overall pony rider of the year award to the junior who accumulates the most points in all three pony divisions. Points for pony races can be earned in both flat races and field master chases: 6 points for a first place finish, 3 points for a second place finish, 1 point for a third place finish. Juniors must race in at least two and win at least one race to be eligible for year-end awards.

For the hurdle and timber races, each race will award 6 points for a first place finish, 3 points for a second place finish, and 1 point for a third place finish. This includes the ladies and gentleman's foxhunter timber races. In order to be eligible for all year end awards, candidates must start in at least two and win at least one race.

Flat races will receive 3 points for a first place finish, 1.5 points for a second place finish and .5 points for a third place finish. In order to be eligible for all year end awards, candidates must start in at least two and win at least one race.

Presuming all qualifications for awards are met, in the event of a tie, two awards will be presented.

Results and standings will be posted on this website by Wednesday following each race. If there are questions, disputes or protests regarding point assignment, they must be submitted in writing to the Governor’s Cup Chief Steward by 5 p.m. the Friday following each race at .

All decisions rendered by the Governor’s Cup Chief Steward will be final. If you have any questions about the new conditions, please forward them to the Chief Steward at .