What's Happening Across Maryland Racing

A community meeting sponsored by the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association provided insights and important information regarding the movement of people, horses and property from Pimlico Race Course to Laurel Park in advance of the Sept. 1 closure of Pimlico for training activities.

Preparations are in full swing for the highly anticipated annual seven-day meet at the Maryland State Fair at Timonium. This year’s event, renowned for its thrilling races and vibrant atmosphere, promises to be a highlight on the racing calendar, featuring the ever-popular $20,000 Trainer’s Bonus program.

The Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority at a meeting in mid-July announced that the process for selecting a contractor to oversee the demolition and reconstruction of Pimlico Race Course is underway.

To ensure equine health and safety, the Maryland Jockey Club (MJC) now uses the WetBulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) measurement to determine when summer heat becomes dangerous. This advanced protocol considers temperature, humidity, wind speed, sun angle, and cloud cover, providing a more accurate assessment of heat stress than the traditional heat index.

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 has unveiled a broad schedule of events and activities in July and August as part of its revised Backstretch Recreation Program, which will be overseen by Bryant Paz.

Dr. Gabrielle Rivest, who served as a Maryland Jockey Club Association Veterinarian since March of this year, will take over as MJC Senior Veterinarian Aug. 1. She replaces Dr. Heidi Thomas, who came to the MJC in the fall of 2020 and is moving on to another opportunity.

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 2024 Maryland Horse Forum has been scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 8, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. in Owings Mills.