Racing Returns To Timonium State Fair For 7-Day Meet

Live racing returns to the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium for a seven-day meet beginning Friday, August 22, and running through Labor Day, Monday, September 1. The meet, known for its tight five-furlong oval and festive summer atmosphere, continues to be a popular and tradition-rich stop on the Maryland racing calendar.

Once again, the State Fair will sponsor the $20,000 Maryland State Fair Trainer Bonus program to reward strong performances during the meet. The bonus is divided into two categories to give trainers of all sizes a fair shot at earning a share of the prize money.

The first category is open to trainers who have started 65 or more horses in Maryland between January 1 and July 31, 2025. The second category is reserved for trainers who have started between three and 64 horses over the same period. Each category carries a $10,000 bonus pool, with prize money awarded to the top five point-earners.

Points will be awarded based on a horse’s first start at the Timonium meet only. A win earns five points, while a second-place finish is worth four. Third-place finishes receive three points, fourths receive two, and each eligible starter earns one point regardless of finishing position. Horses making multiple starts during the meet will only earn points for their first race, and trainers are not permitted to transfer horses for the purpose of earning additional points.

In each category, the top five trainers will be awarded bonus money, with $5,000 going to first place, followed by $2,500 for second, $1,500 for third, $600 for fourth, and $400 for fifth.

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