Algeo Given Special Award of Merit

Maryland Racing Commission Chairman Mike Algeo was presented with the Maryland Jockey Club’s Special Award of Merit during the May 18 Alibi Breakfast at Pimlico Race Course.

The Special Award of Merit is given to those who have made a positive impact on the racing industry. Previous winners have included Jim McKay, D. Wayne Lukas, Chick Lang, Hall of Fame member King Leatherbury and the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance.

Algeo, a former associate judge for Montgomery County Circuit Court, is Special Counsel to the State’s Attorney, Felony Division Chief, and an Adjunct Professor of Law at American University, Washington College of Law.

“It has been an honor to serve in this position,” said Algeo, who was appointed to the MRC in December 2016 by former Gov. Larry Hogan and served as chairman for most of his six-plus years on the commission. “I’d like to thank the Maryland Jockey Club and Gov. Hogan, and most of all I accept this award on behalf of my colleagues on the racing commission.

“I retired from the bench in 2014, and I can say serving on the racing commission has been one of most rewarding and also one of the most challenging jobs. It’s all about communication, compromise, and cooperation.”

Algeo, a co-founder of The Black and Tan Band, which specializes in Irish music, is also known for his sense of humor—it has served him well as the commission navigated through difficult and controversial issues. He has been an advocate for equine health and safety as part of broader efforts in Mid-Atlantic racing and has been committed to bringing horsemen, breeders and the MJC together to positively move the industry forward in the state.

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