Off-The-Turf Races To Receive Purse Boost

In a continued collaborative effort to strengthen field size and enhance wagering appeal, the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (MTHA), in partnership with the Maryland Jockey Club (MJC), has approved a targeted purse adjustment for turf races moved to the main track.

The measure, approved by the MTHA Board of Directors on March 19 following a recommendation from the MTHA Purse Committee—which includes representatives from the Maryland Jockey Club—will take effect with the start of the Laurel Park spring meet on Friday, April 10.

Under the program, races taken off the turf that maintain seven or more betting interests will receive a 20% purse increase. The initiative will remain in place through June 28, 2026, and will be reevaluated for continuation ahead of the Laurel fall meet beginning in September.

Under the new structure, qualifying races that come off the turf but retain sufficient field size will see meaningful purse enhancements. For example:

• A $47,000 maiden special weight would increase to $56,400
• A $24,000 lifetime claiming race would increase to $28,800
  

During discussions, it was emphasized that maintaining larger fields in off-the-turf scenarios has a direct and significant impact on pari-mutuel handle. Data consistently shows that races with seven or more betting interests generate substantially stronger wagering activity compared to those with smaller fields.

This collaborative initiative between the MTHA and Maryland Jockey Club is designed to better align incentives, encourage participation when races are moved off the turf, and support a more competitive and attractive racing product at Laurel Park.

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