Condition Book Updates Announced

The Maryland Jockey Club (TMJC), in collaboration with the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (MTHA) announced several updates to the standard racing program. 

After gaining insight from various industry stakeholders, the TMJC, MTHA and the MTHA Purse Committee agreed to changes with the goal of providing a more successful racing product.  Following a series of productive discussions, the changes were officially approved by the MTHA Board of Directors and TMJC. 

KEY CHANGES TO CATEGORIES:

The claiming price tier for maiden, non-winners of two, and non-winners of three moves to the following levels:

• $10,000–$8,000

• $16,000–$12,500

• $25,000–$20,000

• $40,000–$32,000

In addition:

By popular demand, $5,000 claiming races will return to the schedule and the open $8,000 claiming category will be reinstated.

A new Maryland-bred and -sired maiden special weight replaces the current $45,000 waiver maiden that pitted Maryland-bred or -sired performers against open maiden claimers.

The $40,000 maiden claiming race, which allows Maryland-bred horses to run for a $50,000 price, continues as part of the standard program.

These adjustments are reflected in the upcoming May 2025 Pimlico/Laurel Park Condition Book and appear as overnight extras beginning in April.

ABOUT THE PURSE COMMITTEE

The Maryland Purse Committee plays a vital and collaborative role in shaping the structure and direction of Maryland’s live racing programs at Laurel Park, Pimlico Race Course, and Timonium. The Purse Committee is responsible for reviewing and recommending policies related to purse distribution, stakes schedules, race conditions, and overall racing opportunities.

The Committee includes representatives from The Maryland Jockey Club, elected MTHA Directors, and at-large members chosen for their deep experience and insight into Maryland’s racing landscape. While the Committee’s recommendations are advisory in nature, all actions are subject to final approval by both the MTHA Board of Directors and The Maryland Jockey Club Racing Department.

Through open discussion and industry input, the Purse Committee ensures that Maryland’s racing program remains competitive, fair, and responsive to the evolving needs of horsemen, racetracks, and racing fans alike.

CURRENT PURSE COMMITTEE MEMBERS

The Maryland Jockey Club: Bill Knauf, Georganne Hale and Jillian Tullock.

MTHA Directors: A. Ferris Allen, Lacey Gaudet, Linda Gaudet, David Hayden, Michael Horning, Timothy Keefe, Charles Reed, Brittany Russell, Michael Trombetta and Katharine Voss.

At-Large Members: John J. Robb and Phil Schoenthal.

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