WASHINGTON - The fine jewel of horse racing's Triple Crown will be awarded Saturday and there is good news for those who wish they could be a bigger part of the action.

90 North Racing Stables, which has a facility in Maryland, sells ownership shares of Thoroughbred race horses starting at $1,000, says owner Justin Nicholson, of Bethesda.

"It's one thing to bet on a horse, it's a whole other to be a part of the story as it unfolds."

Nicholson, 26, says ownership stakes mean holders can visit their horses at the barn and pose with them in the winners circle. But, they must also pay quarterly training and upkeep fees.

"It allows people to come into the sport and allows us to grow the sport without that that 'Sport of Kings' mentality," he says. "I think it's really kind of the future of the sport."

The business has stables in Maryland, New York and Florida, according to the website.

As for this weekend, Nicholson says he thinks the Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner I'll Have Another stands a chance at winning.

"I'm really rooting for him and he's got a real shot. I've been very impressed with his grit. He's a gutty horse."

WTOP's Nathan Hager contributed to this report.

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(Copyright 2012 by WTOP. All Rights Reserved.)

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