1st Racing Archives • The Racing Biz

DRF Bets acquired by 1/ST

by Press Release | Jun 10, 2025 | Breaking, Business, National news | 0 |

1/ST, former owners of Laurel and Pimlico and current owners of Xpressbet and 1/ST Bet, has acquired DRF Bets, the companies announced.

Hamelback: Industry must speak out against decoupling

by Guest Author | Jan 29, 2025 | Breaking, National news, Opinion | 0 |

The horseracing industry must oppose a Florida “decoupling” proposal to sever the racing-gaming connection, says HBPA chief Eric Hamelback.

Jim McKay Turf Sprint to be part of US-UK partnership

by Press Release | Apr 4, 2024 | Breaking, Business, Maryland, MD Business, Press release other | 0 |

The Jim McKay Turf Sprint, a Preakness weekend staple at Pimlico, will be part of a trans-Atlantic race series with races in Britain and California.

Stronach Group: Maryland agreement to “usher in new era”

by Frank Vespe | Mar 14, 2024 | Breaking, Business, Bylined Other, Maryland, MD Business | 1 |

In a statement, the Stronach Group said the agreement on donating Pimlico to the state will help “usher ina new era” in Maryland racing.

Preakness, Dinner Party to receive purse boosts

by Press Release | Mar 1, 2024 | Breaking, Business, Maryland, MD Business, Press release other | 0 |

The Preakness purse will rise to $2 million, while the Dinner Party jumps to $500,000, as 1/ST Racing links those races with the Cal Crown and Pegasus.

Aidan Butler appointed president of 1/ST

by Press Release | Jan 24, 2024 | Breaking, Business, Maryland, MD Business, National news | 0 |

1/ST, the parent company of the Maryland Jockey Club, has announced Aidan Butler’s promotion to president.

Maryland horsemen, tracks reach ’24 operating agreement

by Frank Vespe | Dec 30, 2023 | Breaking, Business, Bylined Other, Maryland, MD Business | 0 |

Maryland horsemen and breeders have reached an agreement with the Maryland Jockey Club that will keep racing afloat through 2024, the horsemen announced.