Maryland Horse Racing Revitalized for 6 Months with Contract Extension
Maryland Horse Racing Revitalized for 6 Months with Contract Extension
Horse racing in Maryland has been given a new lease on life with the recent announcement of a six-month contract extension between the Maryland Jockey Club and the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association. The agreement will allow for continued racing at Laurel Park and Pimlico Race Course through the end of 2021, providing a much-needed boost to the state’s horse racing industry.
The Maryland Jockey Club, which operates both Laurel Park and Pimlico Race Course, had been facing financial difficulties due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With the cancellation of live racing in 2020 and limited attendance at races in 2021, the club was struggling to stay afloat. However, the contract extension will provide some stability and allow for the continuation of live racing at both tracks.
The agreement also includes provisions for increased purses for horse owners and trainers, which will help to attract more high-quality horses to Maryland’s tracks. This, in turn, will lead to more competitive races and a better overall experience for fans.
The contract extension is also good news for the state’s horse breeding industry. Maryland has a long history of breeding top-quality thoroughbreds, and the continued success of the state’s horse racing industry is crucial to the health of the breeding industry. With live racing set to continue through the end of the year, breeders will have more opportunities to showcase their horses and attract buyers.
In addition to the financial benefits, the contract extension is also a positive development for the state’s horse racing fans. Horse racing has a rich history in Maryland, with Pimlico Race Course hosting the Preakness Stakes, one of the most prestigious races in the world. The continuation of live racing at both tracks will provide fans with more opportunities to see top-quality horses and jockeys in action.
Overall, the six-month contract extension between the Maryland Jockey Club and the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association is a positive development for the state’s horse racing industry. It will provide much-needed stability and financial support, while also benefiting horse owners, trainers, breeders, and fans. With live racing set to continue through the end of the year, Maryland’s horse racing industry is poised for a revitalization.