Van Service Available For Appointments, Events

The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association provides van service for both personal needs and recreational outings for those working on the backstretch.

Recreation Director Dan Mangum offers van service up to three times per week—primarily Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays—at Laurel Park. Transportation is generally provided to social services agencies, food markets, medical appointments, and the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration.

Because Mangum’s schedule can fluctuate based on demand, it is important to arrange transportation in advance and confirm availability before scheduling appointments. This is especially critical for medical visits that may be difficult to reschedule. The MTHA staff appreciates the cooperation of backstretch workers who assist friends and coworkers by sharing transportation when possible.

Often, multiple individuals travel together with Mangum to the same offices or businesses. He typically arrives between 9:00 and 9:30 a.m., once training concludes, which allows him to coordinate multiple stops efficiently. Advance notice helps ensure that as many requests as possible can be accommodated.

“I stay pretty busy, and without a day or two of notice, it can be hard to fit everyone in,” Mangum said. “That’s especially true if someone has an appointment far from Laurel Park.”

With sufficient notice, Mangum said he can occasionally adjust his schedule to provide service on a Monday or Friday if needed. He can be reached at 410-802-5798. As part of the recreation program, Mangum also organizes and hosts poker tournaments, with the next one scheduled for Wednesday, February 18, at noon in the Laurel Recreation Room.

The MTHA continues to offer a full calendar of activities through its expanded recreation program. Bryant Paz, whose family operates the Laurel Track Kitchen and satellite kitchens on the property, serves as the van driver for these events.

The monthly events schedule is distributed via flyers, with reminders sent through WhatsApp on the Maryland Backstretch Discussion and Announcements group. For trips requiring transportation, Paz maintains a first-come, first-served sign-up list, as the van accommodates only 10–11 passengers. Those unable to attend a trip are given priority for the next outing.

Paz also promotes upcoming events when backstretch employees visit the kitchen. Flyers are posted in the Recreation Room, and Paz can be reached at 240-319-1892 for additional information.

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