The MTHA provides free notary services to members of the backstretch community and other individuals working at Maryland racetracks. These services, conducted by a certified notary public, are regulated by the Maryland Office of the Secretary of State and must adhere to specific legal guidelines.

The Beyond The Wire aftercare program successfully placed 100 retired racehorses in 2024, bringing its total placements to nearly 900 since its launch in the spring of 2017.

The Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority on Dec. 23 officially announced that Maryland’s new Thoroughbred training center, a central component of a comprehensive plan to strengthen the state’s racing industry, will be built at Shamrock Farm near Woodbine in Carroll County. The MTROA, an independent agency established by statute in 2023, announced plans to acquire 300 acres to construct a best-in-class equine training facility.

The Maryland racing community will come together in January to celebrate the life and legacy of Rodney Jenkins, a beloved trainer and equestrian who left an indelible mark on Maryland racing. Jenkins, a native of Middleburg, Va., passed away on Dec. 5 at the age of 80. A memorial service is scheduled for noon on Tuesday, Jan. 7, on the second floor of the clubhouse at Laurel Park.

Beginning in 2025, the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association will no longer mail its monthly newsletter to members. This decision is part of a broader effort to reduce costs and allocate resources more effectively to better serve our members.

The Maryland Racing Commission at a special meeting in late December approved the transfer of the Thoroughbred racing license from the Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority to The Maryland Jockey Club, the new not-for-profit entity that will operate Laurel Park and Pimlico Race Course effective Jan. 1, 2025.

The Maryland starting gate fee will increase by $15 under a new structure approved by the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association Board of Directors at its Dec. 13 meeting. The current fee of $50 will increase to $65 when the Laurel Park winter meet begins Jan. 17, 2025.

The annual MTHA Toy Drive, held on Dec. 21 in the Laurel Park track kitchen, brought holiday cheer to about 60 children who received toys and enjoyed a magical visit from Santa Claus. Organized with care by MTHA Office Manager Diana Pinones, who begins planning months in advance, the event was once again a heartwarming highlight of the season.

An online Jockey Mental Wellness Program is now available in English and Spanish for interested riders. MTHA Counselor Jessica Hammond met recently with jockeys at Laurel Park to explain the program, which is being offered around the country.

The Maryland racing community will come together in January to celebrate the life and legacy of Rodney Jenkins, a beloved trainer and equestrian who left an indelible mark on Maryland racing. Jenkins, a native of Middleburg, Va., passed away on Dec. 5 at the age of 80. A memorial service is scheduled for noon on Tuesday, Jan. 7, at Tycoons in the Laurel Park clubhouse.