'Limited' racehorse owners allowed Laurel Park access

The Maryland Jockey Club is making a few policy changes at Laurel Park regarding access to facilities in response to Maryland Governor Hogan’s authorization to enter into Phase 2 of his administration’s Roadmap to Recovery plan.

Effective Saturday, a limited number of owners will be permitted to watch races from the track apron. They will be required to follow the COVID-19 mitigation protocols already in place at Laurel such as adhering to social distancing of at least six feet and wearing face coverings.

Owners will be permitted to enter the facility at the Clockers’ entrance near the Carriage Room in the grandstand. A security guard will be at that location and, as is the case with all licensed personnel, owners must display a Maryland Racing Commission badge.

The MJC requests that any owners who come to the track kindly watch their race or races in which they have horses running and then leave through the Clockers’ entrance to ensure other owners have access for their races.

The grandstand and clubhouse will remain closed, and paddock and winner’s circle access will not be allowed. The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association and MJC will be monitoring the situation and will review the procedures on a weekly basis.

Horsemen should note that MJC management will now allow a third person other than the trainer and one groom to access the paddock; however, arrangements must be made with, and permission granted by the Paddock Judge in advance.

In addition, effective Friday, June 12, shippers from out of state will be permitted to race at Laurel. Entries for the June 12 program will be taken Monday, June 8.

All shippers must go to the receiving barn, and access will be limited to one trainer and one groom.

Please note that races will continue to be limited to Maryland-based jockeys who competed when live racing resumed May 30-June 1.