MJC provides update on cancellation policy, track surface

Wednesday, February 2, 2022
Monday, May 1, 2023

The Maryland Jockey Club has implemented a new policy regarding the process for cancellation of live racing programs due to weather and track conditions, and in a Feb. 1 report to the Maryland Racing Commission said the recomposition of the cushion of the dirt surface at Laurel Park is almost complete.

The new policy stemmed from the cancellation of live racing on Monday, Jan. 17, at post time for the first race at Laurel after jockeys told management they didn’t believe the surface was suitable. MJC Acting President Mike Rogers said the surface, impacted by overnight rain, appeared to be “responding” at 7:30 a.m., so management decided to try to race in the afternoon.

“Generally, it’s an easy decision to cancel,” Rogers said. “We want to cancel early (because of shippers and Lasix treatments) but a track can improve as the day goes on.”

Under the new policy, when there is chance of a cancellation, there is a 7:30 a.m. meeting that includes the track superintendent, general manager, several jockeys and several trainers. Rogers said representatives of the racetrack, jockey colony and training community must all agree to race for a program to go forward.

Latest Posts

Health Fair Expands with CPR, AED, and Narcan Demonstrations

The upcoming MTHA Health Fair at Laurel Park on Tuesday, September 30 will feature hands-only CPR, AED, and Narcan demonstrations—skills that can save lives in critical moments.

Backstretch Heroes Save Jockey Agent Simon Purdy

The entire Maryland racing community showed its true character today on the backstretch at Laurel Park when quick action from horsemen and officials saved the life of jockey agent Simon Purdy.