Sports & Whatever

Tag: Pimlico Race Course

  • The Commission Was Silent. A Soldier Wasn’t.

    The Commission Was Silent. A Soldier Wasn’t.

    Maryland’s Racing Commission met for the first time since significant changes in the horse racing schedule, mostly remaining silent on pressing issues. Retired Colonel Damon Knauss criticized the commission’s lack of action and proposed moving the Preakness to April to enhance its importance. His comments highlighted the need for proactive responses to recent challenges.

  • How a $375 Million Plan Became a $715 Million Problem

    How a $375 Million Plan Became a $715 Million Problem

    Maryland’s horse racing redevelopment plan escalated from $375 million to over $715 million through five decisions made without public cost-benefit analyses. Key decisions included concentrating racing at a rebuilt Pimlico, abandoning Shamrock Farm, purchasing Laurel Park, and acquiring the Preakness IP, all while lacking transparency and accountability.

  • What Maryland Didn’t Consider

    What Maryland Didn’t Consider

    The Preakness announcement led to a new broadcast deal and date but did not resolve sixteen existing issues—eight created by Maryland and eight inherited from the industry. Key problems include reduced betting handle on Sundays and competition with major events like the PGA Championship, requiring Maryland to address structural shortcomings for racing’s future.

  • Pimlico Has No Plan for the Other 364 Days

    Pimlico Has No Plan for the Other 364 Days

    The new Pimlico Race Course, meant to be a year-round economic hub, currently supports only the Preakness Stakes, raising concerns about its long-term viability. Despite significant investments, no substantial programming or events are announced for the remaining 364 days, provoking skepticism among local residents and officials regarding its projected economic impact.

  • The Hand They’re Not Playing: How Maryland Can Rebuild Horse Racing After the Preakness Shake-Up

    The Hand They’re Not Playing: How Maryland Can Rebuild Horse Racing After the Preakness Shake-Up

    Maryland faces a critical moment in revitalizing the Preakness and its horse racing legacy. With options to build independent coalitions and focus on a four-race calendar, Maryland has the chance to create a significant racing framework by 2028. Immediate action is necessary to secure this future and leverage its unique assets.

  • What CDI Does With Tracks It Owns

    What CDI Does With Tracks It Owns

    Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) has a documented strategy for acquiring and managing racetracks, evident in its closure of Arlington Park and relocation of prestigious races to Colonial Downs. Maryland’s $85 million investment to secure the Preakness IP aimed to prevent such an outcome, ensuring the race’s future remains tied to its heritage, not CDI’s corporate…

  • Nine Minutes. One Question.

    Nine Minutes. One Question.

    The press conference by CDI and NYRA lasted only nine minutes, addressing their new Thoroughbred Championship Series, which excludes Maryland’s Preakness. This prompted criticism regarding the lack of communication and potential negative impact on the Triple Crown. Maryland may face challenges if included in the series under CDI’s terms.

  • The Governor Bought a Horse Race

    The Governor Bought a Horse Race

    Governor Wes Moore’s administration committed $85 million in taxpayer funds to acquire the Preakness Stakes brand, amid rising costs and budget deficits in Maryland. Critics argue this move prioritizes political gain over essential infrastructure needs and question the governance and management of this state-owned commercial property, with significant financial risks involved.

  • Derby Winners Are Skipping the Preakness. Maryland Is Spending $400 Million on It Anyway.

    Derby Winners Are Skipping the Preakness. Maryland Is Spending $400 Million on It Anyway.

    Cherie DeVaux Racing announced that Golden Tempo will not compete in the Preakness Stakes, continuing a trend of Derby winners opting out due to modern training practices and financial considerations. Maryland’s $400 million investment in Pimlico faces challenges, as the state lacks control over scheduling and racing decisions, with no Triple Crown winners since 2018.

  • Maryland Spent $450 Million. Churchill Downs Bought the Crown Jewel. Moore Wasn’t Invited.

    Maryland Spent $450 Million. Churchill Downs Bought the Crown Jewel. Moore Wasn’t Invited.

    This Saturday, Democratic governors from four states will attend the Kentucky Derby, hosted by Kentucky’s Governor Beshear. Notably absent is Maryland’s Governor Wes Moore, who is kicking off his reelection campaign in Maryland. The situation raises questions about party optics and the financial relationship between Maryland and Churchill Downs.