TMJC to Debut Fair Hill Turf Showcase
The Maryland Jockey Club (TMJC) has announced the debut of the Fair Hill Turf Showcase, a two-day racing event scheduled for Sunday, May 24, and Monday, May 25, 2026, at the Fair Hill Special Event Zone in Cecil County.
The showcase will feature a special all-turf Thoroughbred program on Sunday, followed by a steeplechase card on Memorial Day Monday in coordination with the National Steeplechase Association (NSA).
Sunday’s program is expected to include approximately seven to eight turf races contested over Fair Hill’s newly developed, state-of-the-art grass course. The event will be staffed and operated by TMJC and will utilize Maryland’s jockey colony.
As part of the overall racing schedule for the holiday weekend, Laurel Park will conduct live racing on Friday and Saturday, with no live Thoroughbred racing on Sunday or Monday at Laurel. TMJC has indicated that the Sunday race day shifted to Fair Hill will be replaced with an additional live race day at Laurel Park later in the calendar.
- Thoroughbred purses for the Fair Hill program will be funded through the Maryland Thoroughbred Purse Account
- The Monday steeplechase program will feature purses funded through the NSA
- The event will be fully exported for wagering, providing national exposure for Maryland racing
The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (MTHA) is a partner in the initiative.
Fair Hill has long served as a cornerstone of Maryland’s training and equestrian community. Following significant state investment, the facility now features a modern turf course with advanced drainage and irrigation systems, positioning it as one of the premier racing surfaces in the Mid-Atlantic.
The Fair Hill Turf Showcase represents a strategic effort to expand turf racing opportunities, utilize Maryland’s existing world-class assets, and introduce a unique racing experience during a high-profile holiday weekend.
Additional details, including condition book information and wagering specifics, are expected to be announced soon.
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