Russell Baze, the winningest jockey in North American thoroughbred racing history, is coming to Minnesota to ride in the 11th annual Claiming Crown, July 25 at Canterbury Park in Shakopee.

Baze will have mounts on three or four horses for trainer Lloyd Mason and owner Ed Denike.

On Feb. 1, 2008, Baze became the first rider in North America to win 10,000 races and through Wednesday had a career win total of 10,570. Both Baze and Mason are based in Northern California.

Baze will be making his first Claiming Crown appearance.

“Claiming horses are the foundation of horse racing,” Baze said. “It’s great to participate in a day when they get their accolades.”

Baze, 50, began his riding career at the age of 15. He has led the nation in annual victories 10 times and is currently second in the 2009 standings with 211 wins. Last Saturday at the San Joaquin County Fair in Stockton, Calif., Baze was aboard for Mason’s 1,000th career win.

Canterbury Park has played host to eight of the 10 Claiming Crowns.