Board Cites Success Of Bonus, Stakes Programs

At its September open meeting, the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (MTHA) Board of Directors reviewed the highly successful results of the $600,000 Owner and Developer Bonus Program and the dual-state bred stakes schedule offered this summer to Maryland-based connections during the Laurel Park racing break.

From July 4 through August 17, 2025, Maryland horsemen were eligible for bonuses at both Delaware Park and Colonial Downs through a points-based system tied to race conditions. In total, 198 Maryland-bred horses earned bonuses—132 at Delaware Park and 66 at Colonial Downs. These funds, which would not have been available without industry cooperation to authorize payments, have already been distributed.

The dual-state bred stakes schedule also proved highly rewarding. Of the first eight combined stakes—six held at Colonial Downs—Maryland horses dominated. Maryland-bred or -sired horses accounted for 41 starters compared with just 10 from Virginia, capturing $692,250 (72.4%) of the $956,000 in total purses.

Looking ahead, the MTHA Board approved a 2025 fall stakes schedule that will feature the next four dual-state bred stakes events, all hosted at Laurel Park on December 6 and December 20.

Board members praised the collaboration and results:

“The program was a huge success,” said MTHA Board member Michael Horning. “If we continue to pause racing during most of the Colonial Downs meet, this model should absolutely be repeated. It strengthens partnerships with other tracks and, most importantly, benefits our horsemen.”

MTHA Board member A. Ferris Allen called the program a “win-win” for both associations, noting it also helped boost field sizes.

At the September meeting of the Maryland Racing Commission, commissioner Konrad Wayson applauded the initiative, saying: “Maryland owners and developers were able to earn bonuses from a larger pool of races across two states. It was a great initiative, and it worked out well.”

The Board emphasized that the program not only delivered immediate financial benefits but also highlighted the strength and resilience of Maryland’s racing community when stakeholders work together.

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