Maryland Trainers in a Tough Spot

With Maryland racing in limbo for 2011, trainers based in the state could soon be faced with answering a very simple but important question if the unsettled situation isn't quickly resolved: Where will they race their horses?

When the Maryland Racing Commission Nov. 29 rejected a proposal by the Maryland Jockey Club for a greatly reduced number of 2011 racing dates, horsemen were faced with the very real possibility that there will be no racing in Maryland next year, or at least no racing to start the year at Laurel Park, which typically begins its winter meet the first week of January.

And while the headlines on the unsettled situation will focus on the possibility of having no Preakness Stakes  (gr. I) in May at Pimlico Race Course, Maryland-based trainers have far more pressing concerns. It's estimated about 1,500 racehorses make their home in Maryland.

The MRC is next scheduled to meet Dec. 21. Of the many issues at the forefront of the negotiations will be the number of dates for the upcoming year.