Providing assistance to horsemen in times of need has long been a cornerstone of horsemen’s organizations across the country. Since its inception, the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association has proudly administered the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Trainer Benefit Trust Fund, one of the most comprehensive programs of its kind in the nation. Authorized annually by the MTHA Board of Directors, the program provides an important safety net for Maryland trainers and their families by helping offset medical and dental expenses that may not be covered by insurance or other available resources.
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The Trainer Benefit Trust Fund reflects the MTHA’s longstanding commitment to the health, welfare, and financial well-being of the horsemen who dedicate their lives to Maryland racing. Unexpected medical expenses can place a significant burden on individuals and families, particularly in an industry where long hours and physically demanding work are part of everyday life. This program helps ensure that eligible trainers and their spouses have access to assistance when they need it most.

The program is available to currently licensed trainers and their spouses. Eligible trainers must be currently stabled at Laurel Park and may be subject to a minimum requirement of 10 starts in Maryland during the previous year, with the majority of those starts occurring within the state. All applications are reviewed by the MTHA Health & Welfare Committee to determine eligibility and benefit approval, ensuring that assistance is distributed fairly and in accordance with the program’s guidelines.