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.

Before the first race begins and long after the grandstand empties, Maryland’s backstretch professionals are caring for the horses at the heart of the sport. Their work requires skill, dedication and years of experience. Helping those workers build financial security for the future is a lasting commitment of the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association.

Established in 1988, the MTHA Backstretch Pension Program provides retirement income designed to supplement Social Security for eligible backstretch employees and trainers. It represents a sustained investment in the people whose daily work makes Maryland racing possible.

Each year, the MTHA Board of Directors allocates $1 million toward the program. As of May 24, 2026, the plan held $12,278,993.36 in total assets.

Those figures reflect a commitment carried forward year after year. The program’s 2026 report documents $1 million in contributions for each of the past five plan years, from 2021/22 through 2025/26.

Making Participation Accessible

For the 2025/26 signup year, 274 people enrolled, compared with 264 the previous year.

MTHA offers an easy and straightforward signup process with both in-person and online options, available in English and Spanish. Participants can choose the approach that works best for them, whether they prefer personal assistance or the convenience of registering online.

Eligible workers are not required to make personal contributions to receive the program’s annual allocation. That feature is especially meaningful for people balancing everyday expenses with the challenge of saving for retirement.

The program serves eligible licensed professionals, including grooms, exercise riders, hot walkers, pony persons, stable foremen and qualifying trainers. Participation is subject to the plan’s age, licensing, service and documentation requirements.

Recognizing Years of Work

The program connects retirement benefits to a participant’s work in Maryland racing. Annual contributions are allocated among participants using a formula that considers years of service and eligible earnings.

Participants become fully vested after three qualifying years of service, giving them full ownership of their plan account under the plan’s rules. The 2026 report lists 409 vested account holders—a measure of the program’s reach beyond any single year’s enrollment.

Through John Hancock’s retirement platform, participants can view account balances, monitor investment performance, select investments within the plan’s available options and use retirement planning resources. Participants also receive an annual individual benefit certificate once earnings and service information is finalized.

The program includes provisions for accessing benefits at qualifying retirement ages. Participants who meet the applicable requirements may receive full or partial distributions while continuing to work. Those who leave employment and do not intend to return may roll their vested balance into an external IRA, subject to plan rules.

A Lasting Commitment to Backstretch Workers

Supporting the backstretch community includes helping workers prepare for life beyond their working years. Since 1988, the pension program has made that responsibility a continuing part of Maryland racing.

With a $1 million annual allocation, more than $12.2 million in accumulated plan assets and enrollment available in two languages and two formats, MTHA’s Backstretch Pension Program gives eligible workers a practical way to build retirement resources throughout their careers.

For enrollment information, visit backstretchpension.com or contact MTHA at 410-902-6842.

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