Tom LaMarra

Have you worked on the backstretch in Maryland in the last three years? Are you enrolled in a four-year degree program at a college or university? Do you have a passion to continue working in the Thoroughbred industry upon graduation?

The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association, via the Horsemen’s Counseling program, on June 13 at Laurel Park facilitated a daylong workshop on Mental Health First Aid, a program that teaches participants how to provide support for persons in need. It was attended by MTHA and Maryland Jockey Club employees, backstretch workers, trainers and exercise riders.

The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority’s Racetrack Safety Program contains a section on hazardous weather protocol, including guidelines for air quality.

Maryland Racing Commission Chairman Mike Algeo was presented with the Maryland Jockey Club’s Special Award of Merit during the May 18 Alibi Breakfast at Pimlico Race Course.

The Preakness Stakes post-position draw will be held Monday, May 15, at Guinness Open Gate Brewery in Baltimore and will include a public concert by English musician John Waite, who is known for his many popular songs in the late 1970s and early 1980s.