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Ferris Allen Bootstraps Scholarship
Dugan, Schoenthal Named 2026 Ferris Allen Bootstraps Scholarship Recipients
Megan Dugan, a freshman at the University of Kentucky, and Bryn Schoenthal, a freshman at Slippery Rock University, have been selected as the 2026 recipients of the Ferris Allen Bootstraps Scholarship.
Trainers Reminded to Promptly Report Track Surface Feedback
MTHA reminds trainers to promptly report any observations or concerns involving the racing or training surfaces at Laurel Park by emailing trackissues@mdhorsemen.com.
Resources
Reminder: ACH Transfers Available for Horsemen’s Accounts
The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association reminds owners that ACH transfers are available for their Maryland Horsemen’s accounts, providing a convenient way to transfer funds directly to a personal or business bank account.
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Equibase Rating Races Show Promise As Maryland Trial Continues
Equibase rating races have drawn encouraging participation in Maryland, with sizable fields indicating that owners and trainers are finding value in this additional racing opportunity.
In Remembrance
Remembering Tracy Johnson Mulroy: A Life of Courage, Compassion and Family Legacy
MTHA joins the Johnson family and the racing community in mourning Tracy Johnson Mulroy, who died peacefully in early November, surrounded by family and close friends. She was 58.
Maryland Bred Bonuses
Horsemen Reminded of Maryland Million Bonus Opportunities
The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association reminds owners and trainers to check their horses’ Maryland Million eligibility and take advantage of the program’s added earning opportunities.
Pimlico Redevelopment Construction Update – November 2026
MTHA is pleased to share the latest construction update on the redevelopment of Pimlico Race Course.
Receiving Barn Snack Shop Reopens Under Paz Family Management
The Receiving Barn Snack Shop at Laurel Park has reopened under the management of Miguel and Bryant Paz, the family behind the Track Kitchen, offering horsemen and backstretch workers a convenient stop for breakfast, hot beverages and snacks.
MTHA to Continue Thanksgiving Meal Tradition for Laurel Park Backstretch
The MTHA will once again provide free Thanksgiving meals for Laurel Park’s backstretch community on Thursday, November 26, 2026, with service from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Stadium Authority Approves Agreement for Operation of Pimlico and Laurel Park
The Maryland Stadium Authority Board of Directors approved a Facilities Operations Agreement with The Maryland Jockey Club, establishing responsibilities for the operation, maintenance and security of Pimlico and Laurel Park as Maryland advances its long-term plan for Thoroughbred racing.
Tickets Now On Sale for MTHA Christmas Party at Laurel Park
MTHA’s annual Christmas Party and Toy Drive returns to Laurel Park this year! Join friends and colleagues from across Maryland’s racing community on Monday, December 7, 2026, from 6 to 10 p.m. in the second-floor Sportsbar for an evening of food, live music and holiday cheer.
MTHA Unveils Redesigned Website With Easier Access to News, Programs and Resources
MTHA has launched a redesigned mdhorsemen.com, featuring a fresh look and a more organized layout that makes it easier for owners, trainers and backstretch workers to find the information they need.
Board Meeting
MTHA Board of Directors Meeting Set For November 24
The next Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association Board of Directors meeting has been scheduled for Tuesday, November 24 at 11 a.m.
Board Meeting
MTHA Launches Election Resource Page Ahead of December Board Vote
MTHA has launched a dedicated 2026 Board of Directors Election page at mdhorsemen.com/election, bringing candidate profiles, voting instructions and election resources together in one convenient location.
New Brand Identities Released for Pimlico Race Course and the Preakness Stakes
The Maryland Jockey Club (TMJC) unveiled new brand identities for Pimlico Race Course and the Preakness Stakes, giving both a bold new look ahead of Preakness’ return to Pimlico in May 2027.
PROPOSED RACING RULES: What Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen Should Know
An October 7 Daily Record article about proposed Maryland Racing Commission regulations has generated questions about increased penalties, medication enforcement and the state’s investment in Thoroughbred racing.
Slate Of 26 Candidates Approved For MTHA Election
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.
Wendaur Joins TMJC as Veterinarian
Dr. Forrest Wendaur, who operates a private equine veterinary practice in Woodbine, Md., has been hired as a part-time association veterinarian for The Maryland Jockey Club.
SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT
A Statement From The MTHA Board of Directors On The Election Nominations Process
MTHA Board Extends $1,000 Minimum Purse Payment to All Races
The MTHA Board of Directors unanimously authorized a minimum purse payment of $1,000 to every starter, through last place, in all races, including stakes.
Fasig-Tipton’s $500,000 Preakness Incentive Adds to Maryland’s Annual Bonus Program
Fasig-Tipton is offering a $500,000 bonus if a horse offered at its 2026 Eastern Fall Yearlings Sale wins the 2028 Preakness Stakes.
Maryland’s FAMLI Program: What Trainers and Racing Employers Need to Know
Payroll contributions begin January 1, 2027; paid-leave benefits start January 1, 2028.
In Remembrance
Longtime trainer John Salzman Sr. passes away at age 81
John Salzman Sr., a stalwart of Maryland Thoroughbred racing for decades, passed away September 28 at age 81.
LAUREL PARK SURFACE TESTING PROVIDES ENCOURAGING EVIDENCE OF CONSISTENCY
Lab results show less variation than both comparison examples, offering horsemen a clearer picture of how the main track responds under simulated hoof impact.
Backstretch Pension
INVESTING IN THE PEOPLE WHO KEEP MARYLAND RACING RUNNING
MTHA’s Backstretch Pension Program combines a $1 million annual commitment with accessible enrollment and nearly four decades of support.
Benevolence Program
MTHA BENEVOLENCE PROGRAM: Supporting The People Who Make Racing Possible
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.
Maryland Bred Bonuses
2026 Out-of-State Owner/Developer Bonus Program Annual Report Available
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.
FARRIOR AND GRAHAM EARN TOP TRAINER BONUSES AS TIMONIUM CLOSES SEVEN-DAY MEET
Timonium concluded its seven-day race meet Monday, with Anthony Farrior and Robin Graham each earning $5,000 awards from the $20,000 Timonium Trainer’s Bonus program. The meet, which opened August 28, featured 58 races and a memorable upset by the Pedro Nazario-trained For the Ladies in the $75,000 Shine Again Stakes.
Ferris Allen Bootstraps Scholarship
Deadline Approaching For Bootstraps Scholarship
The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association is seeking applicants for the Ferris Allen Bootstraps Scholarship, which supports individuals working in Maryland’s Thoroughbred racing community who want to further their education.
HISA Seeking Input
Maryland horsemen are encouraged to participate in an industry-wide survey soliciting commends regarding ways to promote greater consistency in scratch procedures nationwide and to improve the quality of data used to understand and support equine welfare.
Horsemen's Health System
Health Fair Scheduled For Oct 5
The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association, in partnership with MedStar Health and Adventist HealthCare LifeWork Strategies, will host its annual Health Fair on Monday, October 5, from 9 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Recreation Room at Laurel Park.
Celebration of Life for Howard Wolfendale Set for September 9
The Maryland Thoroughbred community is invited to gather in remembrance of longtime trainer Howard Wolfendale at a Celebration of Life on Wednesday, September 9.
THE PREAKNESS: Maryland Intellectual Property Ownership, Media Rights, and the New Championship Series
Frequently asked questions about what changed, what did not, how the acquisition is financed and why ownership is the fiscally responsible choice.
Report Racetrack Surface Feedback
MTHA encourages all horsemen to promptly report any concerns involving the racing or training surfaces at Laurel Park by emailing trackissues@mdhorsemen.com.
NBC Sports Agreement Brings National Spotlight to Maryland Million and Preakness Preview Day
The recently announced media rights agreement between the Maryland Jockey Club and NBC Sports represents a major commitment to the future of the Preakness Stakes. Additionally, the agreement will introduce a much broader national audience to two other signature events on Maryland’s racing calendar.
TMJC, NBC SPORTS REACH SIX-YEAR PREAKNESS MEDIA RIGHTS AGREEMENT
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.
MTHA Prepares For Board Election
The MTHA Board of Directors began preparations July 29 for the triennial board election scheduled for December 2026.
Ferris Allen Bootstraps Scholarship
Bootstraps Scholarship Apps Open
Online applications are being accepted for the Ferris Allen Bootstraps Scholarship, which supports individuals working in Maryland’s Thoroughbred racing community who want to further their education.
In Remembrance
Longtime trainer Donald Barr passes away at age 85
Donald Barr, who began his training career in 1979 and won multiple graded stakes, passed away August 2 after a battle with leukemia.
In Remembrance
Maryland Thoroughbred Community Mourns the Passing of Bill Reightler
The Maryland Thoroughbred community has lost one of its most respected and accomplished horsemen with the passing of Bill Reightler.
In Remembrance
Longtime Maryland trainer Howard Wolfendale passes at age 69
Howard Wolfendale, who began his career as a trainer in 1977 and was based in Maryland, passed away in Pennsylvania July 1 after complications from a stroke.
Timonium’s State Fair Meet: A Highlight of Summer
When the dark period for live racing in Maryland ends in late August, the action will again return to the Maryland State Fair at Timonium for two weeks.
Ferris Allen Bootstraps Scholarship
Bootstraps Scholarship Apps To Be Available Soon
Online applications will be accepted soon for the Ferris Allen Bootstraps Scholarship—an award created to support individuals working within the Maryland Thoroughbred racing community who aspire to further their education.
Groom Awards
Groom Awards Program Returns
The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association is pleased with the restart of a program by which a selection is made for the best-turned-out horse in the paddock before every race at Laurel Park.
In Remembrance
Horsemen Mourn Passing Of Edwards, Balsinger and Hairfield
The Maryland racing community is mourning the recent loss of Derrick Edwards, Troy Balsinger and William Hairfield.
Beyond The Wire
New Maryland Racing Commissioner Kirsten Green Brings Horsemen an Open Door on Aftercare
Retired Racehorse Project Executive Director hopes to serve as a resource as Maryland’s new horse slaughter law takes effect.
Board of Public Works Approves State Purchase of Laurel Park
Acquisition Clears Final Major Hurdle in Establishing Maryland’s Permanent Thoroughbred Training Center
In Remembrance
Services set for Derrick Edwards, assistant starter for TMJC
Services have been scheduled for Derrick Edwards, the longtime assistant starter for The Maryland Jockey Club racetracks who passed away on June 20. He was 57.
Ferris Allen Bootstraps Scholarship
Online applications for Ferris Allen Bootstraps Scholarship to be available soon.
Online applications will be accepted soon for the Ferris Allen Bootstraps Scholarship—an award created to support individuals working within the Maryland Thoroughbred racing community who aspire to further their education.
Horsemen's Health System
MedStar Physicians Available on Limited Summer Schedule During Laurel Racing Break
With live racing at Laurel Park on its annual summer hiatus, MedStar Health physicians serving the Maryland Horsemen’s Health System will be available on a limited schedule until racing resumes.
MTHA Applauds Governor's Decision To Secure Preakness For Maryland
State Exercises Right of First Refusal, Preserving Ownership of Historic Triple Crown Event for Future Generations
In Remembrance
Laurel Park-Based Trainer "Eddie" Hairfield Passes at 89
William Edward “Eddie” Hairfield, a former jockey, exercise rider and trainer, passed away June 6 at age 89. He was a longtime resident of Burtonsville, Md.
Board Meeting
MTHA Board Supports Amendment To Existing Trainer Entry Rule
Proposal Would Modify Preference Rules, Not Create New Authority for Trainers to Enter Three Horses
Nicole Earle appointed chair of the Maryland Racing Commission
Gov. Wes Moore on June 5 announced the appointment of Nicole Earle to chair the Maryland Racing Commission.
HISA issues advisory on horses on vets’ lists
The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority has released a new Equine Health Advisory on the risk of fatal injury in covered horses previously placed on the veterinarians’ list as being unsound.
New Maryland Horse Slaughter Law Takes Effect July 1
A new law signed by Governor Wes Moore on April 14 makes it a criminal offense to knowingly send a racehorse or breeding stock to slaughter for commercial purposes.
Maryland Bred Bonuses
REMINDER: $700,000 Bonus Program Returns For Registered MD-Breds This Summer
As Maryland horsemen prepare for the annual summer racing break at Laurel Park, the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (MTHA) and The Maryland Jockey Club (TMJC) would like to remind owners and trainers that the Maryland-Bred Owner & Developer Bonus Program will again be available this summer at Colonial Downs and Delaware Park.
Board Meeting
SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT: MTHA Board Clarifies Misinformation
In recent weeks, a significant amount of misinformation has been circulated regarding the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association’s recent amendments and the bylaw amendments being proposed by member and trainer John J. Robb.
Laurel backstretch worker 'Chris the Greek' profiled in Capitol News Service story
The following story was written by Nicole Ramos and appeared on the Capitol News Service website. It is a profile of 89-year-old Chrysostomos Christopoulos, known as "Chris the Greek" and "Pepe." Chris, who works for trainer Hugh McMahon, is the oldest backstretch worker at Laurel Park.
Mobile Dentist
Mobile Dentist Program Makes Successful Return to Laurel Park
The Mobile Dentist program made a highly successful return to Laurel Park this week for the first time in nearly two years.
Increased Jockey Mount Fees Effective May 14
The MTHA Board has unanimously approved increases to Maryland jockey mount fees effective Thursday, May 14.
THREE FRESH SURFACES EVERY MORNING: How Laurel Park’s Training Breaks Prioritize Horse and Rider Safety
At Laurel Park, morning training hours are structured with one primary goal: providing the safest possible environment for horses and riders.
HISA Board Votes to Maintain Status Quo on Lasix Use
The HISA Board of Directors has voted unanimously to maintain the current rules governing the use of Lasix in Thoroughbred racing, preserving the existing regulatory framework for the foreseeable future.
TMJC Board Shares Strong Spring Momentum and Fan Engagement Success
The Maryland Jockey Club Board of Directors is pleased to share a series of updates reflecting the continued momentum of the 2026 spring meet, highlighted by strong on-track performance, growing fan engagement, and a number of innovative initiatives designed to elevate the racing experience across Maryland.
Mobile Dentist
MTHA Announces Return of Mobile Dentist Program at Laurel Park
The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (MTHA) is pleased to announce plans to restart its highly successful Mobile Dentist program this spring, bringing essential dental care directly back to the Maryland horsemen’s community at Laurel Park.
Churchill Downs CEO Carstanjen Meets With MTHA Board
In the wake of Churchill Downs Incorporated’s (CDI) announcement that it has reached an agreement in principal to acquire the intellectual property rights to the Preakness and Black-Eyed Susan Stakes from 1/ST RACING for a reported $85 million, CEO Bill Carstanjen met with the MTHA Board of Directors to discuss the transaction and answer questions regarding its impact on Maryland racing.
Benevolence Program
Laurel Multiservice Center Emerging as Valuable Resource for Backstretch Community
The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (MTHA) is pleased to highlight the Laurel Multiservice Center as an increasingly important resource for horsemen and backstretch workers at Laurel Park.
Industry Communication Groups Active on WhatsAPP
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.
Lamar Jackson to Host NTL Event at Laurel Park
The National Thoroughbred League (NTL) will open its 2026 season in Maryland with a Kentucky Derby weekend event at Laurel Park on Saturday, May 2, hosted by Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson.
Timonium Meet Set for Seven Days in 2026
The 2026 Timonium meet will consist of seven days of live racing during the Maryland State Fair, following a one-year operating agreement between the non-profit Maryland Jockey Club and the Maryland State Fair Board of Directors. Under the agreement, The Maryland Jockey Club will provide the necessary staffing and operational support to ensure the meet can be conducted.
Foundation Carries on Mission Of Support for Horsemen
The Maryland Horsemen’s Assistance Foundation, created in 1947, continues with its mission of providing financial assistance for extraordinary circumstances to eligible employees who actively work at Maryland racetracks and Thoroughbred farms.
$700,000 BONUS PROGRAM RETURNS FOR MD-BREDS THIS SUMMER
The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (MTHA) and The Maryland Jockey Club (TMJC) have announced the return of the Maryland-Bred Owner & Developer Bonus Program for summer 2026, continuing a successful initiative that supports Maryland-bred horses during the state’s annual live racing break.
TMJC Board Shares Major Progress on Pimlico Rebuild, Preakness Future, and Strategic Partnerships
The Maryland Jockey Club Board of Directors has provided a comprehensive update to horsemen outlining significant momentum behind the redevelopment of Pimlico and the long-term future of the Preakness Stakes.
TMJC to Debut Fair Hill Turf Showcase
The Maryland Jockey Club (TMJC) has announced the debut of the Fair Hill Turf Showcase, a two-day racing event scheduled for Sunday, May 24, and Monday, May 25, 2026, at the Fair Hill Special Event Zone in Cecil County.
Pension Signups Open Thru June 1
Virtual signups will again be the primary means to participate in the Maryland Backstretch Pension Plan, which this year will receive a $1-million contribution as approved by the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association Board of Directors.
Renaissance Awards
2026 Renaissance Awards winners announced at luncheon at Laurel Park
The partnership of Madison Avenue Racing Stable, Morris Kernan Jr. and Jagger Inc. was voted Owner of the Year; Brittany Russell was voted Trainer of the Year; and apprentice Yedsit Hazlewood was voted Jockey of the Year during the 2025 Renaissance Awards luncheon March 22 at Laurel Park.
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BACKSTRETCH PENSION PLAN
Caring for horses.
Building your future.
Explore retirement benefits for eligible Maryland backstretch workers and trainers, find helpful forms, and get answers to your questions.
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