Negotiations get six-month extension; MRC wants to be part of talks

As representatives of the Maryland racing and breeding industry continue to negotiate given the expiration of a 10-year agreement Dec. 31, 2022, the Maryland Racing Commission has expressed interest in playing a role in the discussions.

After an initial one-month extension, Maryland Jockey Club Acting President Mike Rogers told the MRC Feb. 7 the parties have extended the negotiation period by six months—beyond the Preakness meet at Pimlico Race Course. The primary parties are the MJC, which is owned by 1/ST Racing (The Stronach Group); the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association; and the Maryland Horse Breeders Association.

The initial 10-agreement, which guaranteed 100 live racing programs and called for a "revenue-sharing" contract with horsemen for additional dates, was signed in December 2012. Then-Gov. Martin O'Malley and the MRC were involved in the negotiations that led to the agreement.