Midnight Miracle, a 2-year-old first-time starter, was claimed for $80,000 by Ron Paolucci and Maria Hess, the mother of trainer of Bob Hess, Jr.

The claim comes days after Paolucci said he plans to unwind his ownership interests in racing in coming months after expressing frustration about encounters with racing officials regarding eligiblity of his runners for Breeders' Cup races and a recent disqualfication at Thistledown in Ohio.

In a phone interview on Thursday after the claim, Paolucci said he plans to operate a stable "with business as usual" through the Breeders' Cup at Churchill Downs on Nov. 2-3. Paolucci said he was attracted to Midnight Miracle because of her pedigree.

The filly is by Midnight Lute and out of Glory Be Mine, a five-time stakes winner at Ruidoso Downs and Zia Park in 2009 and 2010 who earned $426,918.

"If she works out, good," Paolucci said. "If not, I could sell her in foal."

Midnight Miracle finished third in Thursday's first race for owner and breeder Dale Taylor and trainer Todd Fincher. Midnight Miracle (12-1) finished 11 3-4 lengths behind winner Boujie Girl ($2.80).