Business
Maryland Jockey Club names new director of racing surfaces
The new Maryland Jockey Club (TMJC) announced Feb. 21 that it has hired John Banno as Director of Racing Surfaces.
HISA cites record-low rate of equine fatalities
The rate of equine fatality dropped below one per 1,000 starts at HISA-governed tracks in 2024, according to HISA, the lowest rate recorded.
Inglis Digital February sale underway
https://youtu.be/ieWousuNld8?si=25qeGZ2FmD0g3mEp The catalog for the 2025 Inglis Digital USA February Sale is now online, featuring a diverse group of 32 offerings. Bidding is currently open...
TMJC tabs Fritz Widaman as marketing chief
The new Maryland Jockey Club (TMJC) has named racing industry veteran Fritz Widaman as its new VP of Marketing.
Preakness set for May 17, anchors 16-stake weekend
The 150th running of the Grade 1 Preakness will take place May 17 at Pimlico Race Course and will anchor a weekend filled with 16 stakes.
Charles Town cancels Jan. 22 card
Predicted frigid temperatures have prompted Charles Town Races to cancel its live racing card for Jan. 22.
Rosecroft announcer Pete Medhurst passes away
Pete Medhurst, longtime track announcer at Rosecroft Raceway, passed away Monday after a battle with brain cancer.
Jockeys’ Guild elects officers
At its annual assembly Jan. 14, the Jockeys’ Guild elected new officers and senators, heard updates, and participated in discussions.
Parx Racing cancels Jan. 21 card
In the face of bitter cold, Parx Racing has canceled its live racing card for Tuesday, January 21, the track announced.
Laurel Park cancels Jan. 19 live card
With significant snow in the forecast, Laurel Park canceled its scheduled live card for Sunday, January 19.
HISA reinstates jockey Paco Lopez
Paco Lopez has the green light from HISA to resume riding, the organization said, following a suspension for his actions following a Dec. 4 race.
Colonial Downs announces Va. Derby ticket options
Colonial Downs has announced ticket options and prices for Virginia Derby day, with the Derby, now a Kentucky Derby points race, to be Mar. 15.
Charles Town cancels Wednesday, Thursday cards
With bitter cold in the forecast, Charles Town has canceled its live racing cards for Wednesday, January 8 and Thursday, January 9.
Chris Merz to head Maryland Racing Commission
Former Maryland Jockey Club racing secretary Chris Merz will be the new executive director of the Maryland Racing Commission.
Handle slumps in December as 2024 lags prior year
US wagering handle on Thoroughbred races plummeted 14% in December, as the industry suffered through another down year.
Mike Hopkins steps down after 40 years at Md. Racing Commission
Maryland Racing Commission executive director Mike Hopkins will retire after today, ending a career that spanned 40 years and many industry changes.
Jockey Club bars 12 from stud book access
The ruling announced by The Jockey Club bans 12 individuals from registering Thoroughbred foals for periods up to five years.
Maryland Racing Commission OKs new TMJC as track operator
The Maryland Racing Commission on Dec. 23 signed off on the new nonprofit Maryland Jockey Club to operate Laurel Park in the new year.
Shamrock Farm chosen as new Maryland training center
The new training center to support racing at Pimlico will be at Shamrock Farm the Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority announced.
Maryland horsemen, breeders point to ’25 priorities
A board to govern the new Maryland Jockey Club, a new training center, and new breeder incentives are top priorities for Maryland’s horsemen and breeders.
