
The Horsemen Happenings newsletter is the official online publication of the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association and is distributed at least twice each month to thousands of horsemen, owners, trainers, breeders, industry stakeholders, and racing fans across the country.
Stay informed. Stay engaged. Stay connected with Horsemen Happenings.

Helping Maryland’s backstretch workers build a more secure financial future through retirem...
Bringing accessible, quality healthcare directly to Maryland’s racing community...

Rewarding owners and developers for the success of Maryland-bred horses on and off...
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Providing financial assistance with eligible medical and dental expenses for trainers and thei...
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Helping retired Thoroughbreds transition from racing into safe and meaningful second...
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Providing healthcare assistance and financial support to eligible backstretch workers in...
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Providing recreation, transportation, and community activities that improve quality of life for Maryland's backstretch workers.
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Providing convenient dental care and assistance to Maryland's backstretch workers through on-site and participating dental services.
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Recognizing the dedicated backstretch employees whose care and hard work help Maryland's horses look their best.

The MTHA will hold a public meeting Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 11 a.m. Eastern Time via Zoom to discuss a proposed digital auction process for horses receiving two or more claims in a claiming race.

The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association Board of Directors on October 1 approved a slate of 26 candidates—12 owners and 14 trainers—that was presented by its Nominating Committee.

A Statement From The MTHA Board of Directors On The Election Nominations Process

With more than $1.8 million allocated annually and a dedicated bilingual team, the MTHA helps racing’s workforce access care, overcome challenges and build stronger lives.

The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association has released the 2026 Annual Report for the Maryland-Bred Out-of-State Owner/Developer Bonus Program, which provided $700,000 in bonuses for Maryland-breds competing at Colonial Downs and Delaware Park during Maryland’s summer racing break.

The Maryland Jockey Club has reached a new six-year media rights agreement with NBC Sports that will provide significantly expanded national exposure for the Preakness Stakes and Black-Eyed Susan Stakes beginning in 2027.

As part of ongoing efforts to improve communication and coordination across Maryland racing, the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association continues to utilize WhatsApp groups as a real-time communication tool for horsemen and industry participants.

The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (MTHA) reminds horsemen that they have exclusive access to a live video feed from Laurel Park.
Horsemen at Laurel Park and Pimlico Race Course are encouraged to use the email system established years ago by the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association and Maryland Jockey Club to report on barn and facilities-related issues.
Keep up with board meetings, important updates, and upcoming dates affecting Maryland's racing community.

The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (MTHA) reminds horsemen that they have exclusive access to a live video feed from Laurel Park.

The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association represents the owners and trainers who race in Maryland. We negotiate on behalf of horsemen, protect purse accounts, advocate for the future of the Maryland circuit, and stand behind the backstretch community that makes racing possible.
From benevolence and health care to scholarships and industry representation, MTHA exists so the people of Maryland racing are supported on and off the track.

