Opinion
One strange Preakness season kicks off… strangely
Derby winner Country House won’t contest the Preakness – first time in 23 years that’s happened – and that’s only one part of the strangeness.
Some thoughts on the Kentucky Derby DQ
The first-ever Kentucky Derby disqualification for an in-race infraction has generated plenty of controversy. Our thoughts…
Santa Anita situation underlines need for crisis response protocols
The Santa Anita Park situation needs to be a lesson to the Thoroughbred industry: define a crisis response protocol now, and not after an issue becomes a disaster.
An apology
We went silent for a week — quite by accident — and we owe our readers an apology, and a promise.
Opinion: On Pimlico, three core principles
With the release of the second phase of the Maryland Stadium Authority study on Pimlico, momentum is building towards a resolution of one kind or another. We believe three principles must guide those decisions.
Breeders’ Cup: Ladies weekend as fillies steal the show
During the just-completed Breeders’ Cup, the boys were fine – but it was clearly the fillies’ turn to shine.
On Pennsylvania Derby day, mystery, misplaced chomps, and megastars
Our correspondent enjoyed Pennsylvania Derby day – but can’t help thinking that Parx and the state are their own worst enemies in the long run… Plus a photo gallery of the day.
Timonium: Racing Brigadoon set for final weekend
Timonium — racing’s once-a-year Brigadoon — is a place where picking winners is simply a matter of knowing which horses won’t be freaked out by the Ferris wheel.
Fred Tallarico, last of Maryland racing ushers, passes
An usher at Maryland racetracks for decades, Fred Tallarico passed away yesterday at 94 — closing the era of regular racetrack ushers in Maryland.
News & Views: Laurel Park’s Breeders’ Cup bid
Laurel Park has submitted a formal bid to host the Breeders’ Cup in the next few years. Can it succeed? We believe that it can.
Opinion: Approve the Charles Town stakes schedule
The WV Racing Commission rejected the Charles Town stakes schedule, endangering the CT Classic. The Commission should reverse course and save the Classic.
The exquisite timing of Ben’s Cat
Maryland’s love of Ben’s Cat stems from many factors, not the least of which was his perfect timing — race-wise, and career-wise.
Delaware Park Owners’ Day celebrates industry’s economic impact
Delaware Park’s 25th annual Owners’ Day was a celebration of racing, sure, but also the industry’s impact on Delaware’s economy.
Consensus-seeking Jockeys’ Guild not for – but not against – federal bill
The Jockeys’ Guild has taken a position not quite for, and not quite against, pending legislation to nationalize racing drug rules in hopes a consensus will form.
Opinion: Steps for this MTHA board and the next
The current and next Maryland horsemen’s group (MTHA) boards should take certain steps in the interests of transparency — and democracy.
Schoenthal: MTHA election about working for common good
In the upcoming MTHA board election, candidate Phil Schoenthal says in an open letter, support candidates who can work together for the common good.
Johnson: MTHA election choice between vibrant future, failing past
The upcoming MTHA board election is a critical moment, board member Larry Johnson writes in an open letter.
Robb: MTHA election about protecting Maryland owners, trainers
The upcoming MTHA board election must put in a board focused on the well-being of Maryland owners and trainers, Jerry Robb writes in an open letter.
Preposterous Parx Oaks fiasco reaches absurd ending
For wagering purposes, Miss Inclusive won the 2016 Parx Oaks. For purse money purposes, Eighth Wonder did. And for race records? Both of ’em won.
Opinion: The sooner Pimlico decisions are made, the better
The uncertainty of Pimlico’s future isn’t helping anyone and needs to be resolved sooner than later.
