The so-called Pimlico Plus plan, which aims to practice addition-by-subtraction on Maryland racing, cleared a major hurdle March 14 when The Stronach Group, owners of Laurel Park and Pimlico Race Course, and the state reached an accord on the donation of the Pimlico property to the state.

That agreement is critical to the overall plan, which calls for the state, via the Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority (MTROA), to assume control of a slimmed down Maryland thoroughbred racing industry, with all racing to be conducted at a renovated Pimlico.

Because Pimlico is too small to house the number of horses horsemen believe necessary to support year-round racing, the plan also envisions the creation of a training center in one of three locations: the former Bowie training center, Shamrock Farm in Woodbine, or the Mitchell Farm property in Aberdeen, which has received strong local political support.

Craig Fravel, executive vice-president of The Stronach Group’s 1/ST Racing and Gaming, said in a statement, “Since the announcement in early January, which outlined a framework for an agreement in principle between The Stronach Group, The Maryland Jockey Club (MJC), and the Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority (MTROA), the parties have engaged in extensive negotiations directed at finalizing a comprehensive agreement. That agreement aims to secure a sustainable future for the Maryland Thoroughbred racing industry and ensure the successful operation of Pimlico Race Course and the Preakness in Baltimore.”

Legislation to clinch the deal and empower the MTROA to take necessary next steps, has been introduced, according to sources, but its public release is not expected until Friday.

Under the Pimlico Plus plan, which MTROA chairman Greg Cross has characterized as a “bet on ourselves” model, a nonprofit group would contract with the MTROA to manage the racetrack and training center. During the period when Pimlico is under construction, the new group will need to reach a lease or similar arrangement with the Stronach Group to continue racing and training at Laurel Park.

In addition, the Stronach Group will retain ownership of the Preakness Stakes and its related intellectual property. It will license the use of the Preakness name and property to the new organization.

“We thank Greg Cross and the MTROA board,” Fravel’s statement continued. “We look forward to the legislative consideration process and collaborating with the MTROA and Maryland stakeholders to usher in a new era for racing in the State.”

The legislation will need to move quickly. The General Assembly is scheduled to adjourn April 8.

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