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.

Jackson’s involvement brings a high level of visibility to the event and represents a unique opportunity to showcase Maryland racing to a broader audience during one of the sport’s biggest weekends.

The Laurel Park program is part of a two-day NTL Derby weekend celebration, which will begin Friday, May 1 at The Horse You Came In On Saloon before shifting to Laurel Park for Saturday’s live racing event. The league is promoting the weekend as a coordinated experience designed to engage fans both on and off the racetrack.

The NTL operates as a team-based, season-long competition featuring city-affiliated teams that earn points based on race results at events held across the country. Horses compete on behalf of these teams in designated races, with standings tracked throughout the season to determine an overall champion.

At Laurel Park, Races 5, 6, and 7 will serve as official NTL events:

• Race 5 – The Charm City Cup
• Race 6 – The Golden Horseshoe Classic
• Race 7 – The Baltimore Blitz

These races will count toward team standings and represent the core of the league’s competition for the day.

Each NTL event combines live racing with enhanced promotion and fan engagement, positioning the sport in a way that appeals to both traditional participants and new audiences. For horsemen, the Laurel Park stop offers an opportunity to compete on a nationally promoted stage with increased exposure.

Maryland previously hosted an NTL event at Pimlico in 2025, which was widely viewed as a success, generating strong fan interest and engagement. That momentum helped position Laurel Park as the league’s 2026 season-opening venue.

With Derby weekend drawing attention across the sport, this Saturday’s event provides an additional platform to highlight Maryland racing and connect with new fans. Efforts like the NTL reflect a broader industry focus on growing the sport and expanding its reach.

Maryland horsemen are being offered 25% off tickets and include the Friday night party in Fell’s Point at The Horse You Came In On Saloon.

🎟️ Grab your tickets now: https://seatgeek.com

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