Sports & Whatever

Tag: public spending

  • 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.

  • Maryland Is Bleeding Money. Voters Have a Choice.

    Maryland Is Bleeding Money. Voters Have a Choice.

    Maryland’s upcoming Republican primary reveals significant governance failures under Wes Moore’s administration, particularly regarding costly public investments in racing. The state faces scrutiny over mismanaged deals like the Churchill Downs acquisition. Republican candidates Dan Cox, Ed Hale, and John Myrick offer specialized skills to address these procurement and legal issues, challenging Moore’s record.

  • Maryland Is Trying to Buy Back a Race It Never Should Have Lost

    Maryland Is Trying to Buy Back a Race It Never Should Have Lost

    Maryland plans to spend $85 million to reacquire the Preakness Stakes brand, previously owned by Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI). The state’s history of mismanagement raises concerns about its ability to effectively steward racing assets. CDI, with its successful track record, holds significant leverage in the negotiations.

  • If the Preakness Bet Fails, What’s Maryland’s Plan B?

    If the Preakness Bet Fails, What’s Maryland’s Plan B?

    Maryland’s $400 million investment in Pimlico aims to preserve the Preakness but lacks a broader strategic vision for sports. While other events like the CIAA Tournament and Maryland Cycling Classic show economic potential, Maryland should develop diverse sporting identities, including lacrosse and sailing, to enhance its public profile and economy.

  • What $400 Million Bought: Mapping the Prestige Gap Between the Masters, the Derby, and the Preakness

    What $400 Million Bought: Mapping the Prestige Gap Between the Masters, the Derby, and the Preakness

    The Preakness Stakes faces significant challenges compared to the Kentucky Derby and The Masters, particularly in terms of viewership, economic impact, and event prestige. Maryland has invested heavily in Pimlico’s renovation, but to close the gap, it must enhance broadcast investment and transform Preakness week into a major destination, fostering year-round revenue.

  • Maryland’s $400 Million Question

    Maryland’s $400 Million Question

    Maryland is investing $400 million to rebuild Pimlico Race Course, with hopes to transform it into a year-round entertainment venue and boost local economic activity. Supporters cite potential job creation and community benefits, while skeptics question the economic viability and reliance on vulnerable revenue streams. Clear accountability metrics are needed to ensure effective use of…

  • The Most Exciting Two Minutes vs. The Most Exclusive Weekend in Sports

    The Most Exciting Two Minutes vs. The Most Exclusive Weekend in Sports

    The article contrasts the economic impact and public investment in the Masters Tournament in Georgia with Maryland’s $400 million commitment to rebuilding the Pimlico Race Course, home of the Preakness Stakes. It questions whether this investment is justified, given the decline of horse racing and the need for a venue that matches its historic prestige.