Minutes of Public Meeting - March 1, 2022

In accordance with §3-302, General Provisions Article, Annotated Code of Maryland, the Maryland Racing Commission (“Commission”) met in person and by conference call in open session at 12:30 p.m. at Laurel Park on March 1, 2022. Prior to the meeting, Chairman Michael Algeo informed the public that their phones or computers should be muted, but he would give the public the opportunity to address the Commission during Public Comments. At the start of the meeting, Chairman Algeo took a roll call of the Commission members and confirmed that Commissioner Konrad Wayson was absent. Clarissa Coughlin, Ernie Grecco and Emmet Davitt participated by phone or computer, with all remaining members participating in person.

Minutes – February 1, 2022.

The Commission waived a reading of the minutes of its February 1, 2022 meeting and voted unanimously to approve the minutes.

Standardbred Penalties.

Executive Director J. Michael Hopkins advised the Commission that in August of 2021, the Commission directed the Judges to suspend not only the trainer’s license of an individual who had a horse that test positive, but also suspend all other licenses held by that individual. The purpose of the change was to deter the practice of transferring horses to another trainer during the suspension period. Commissioner Tammy Lafferty asked for this item to be reviewed. Mr. Hopkins explained that due to a recent positive test, a trainer sold his horses to his father-in-law, which was permissible. Mr. Hopkins noted that it gave the appearance that the suspended trainer was continuing to race his horses. It was suggested that the Commission revise its policy to include the suspension of any horse owned in whole or in part by a trainer that is suspended. After some discussion, Chairman Algeo asked Commissioners Lafferty, Winebrenner and Coughlin to develop a specific recommendation to be considered by the Commission.

Fair Hill Foundation – Charles Fenwick, Jr.

Charles Fenwick, Jr. reported to the Commission that the 2022 Fair Hill spring race meeting was not officially scheduled due to the reconstruction of the 5 Star arena in the infield at Fair Hill. Mr. Fenwick said that the Fair Hill Foundation was working closely with the Department of Natural Resources to develop crossings for the turf course that would be safe during the running of a race. There was an acknowledgement that the event was coming up soon and a decision would need to be made whether the event would be taking place.

Maryland Jockey Club – Update.

Mike Rogers reported that the track work plan submitted in December has been implemented and the feedback has been positive. Mr. Rogers also reported that a policy has been put in place to decide if the track poses a safety concern for racing. Mr. Rogers commented that the new policy has been used and worked very smoothly. Commissioner David Hayden asked Mr. Rogers if there had been any success in finding a general manager for the Maryland Jockey Club and Mr. Rogers commented that it was narrowing the list of possibilities. Commissioner Bowman commented that he has been receiving updates from Dr. Thomas, the Maryland Jockey Club veterinarian, on observations from trainers. Dr. Bowman further commented that practicing veterinarians had not been reporting to Dr. Thomas on the types of injuries they were seeing and that he would encourage veterinarians to initiate the communication.

Ocean Downs – Update.

Peter Szymanski advised that Ocean Downs was in the process of preparing the track for its race meeting. He further advised that Greg Combs, a well know track superintendent, will be advising Ocean Downs regrading optimum track safety. Mr. Szymanski also noted that stall applications would be due soon.

Public Comment.

Trainer John Salzman, Jr. expressed his concern over the amount of time it took to have his Order issued from his hearing in February, which was less than 30 days. Eric London, counsel for the Commission, advised that the Commission renders a decision in 30 days and all parties have 30 days to appeal. Andy Cashman, representing the Maryland State Fair, reported that Timonium was in the process of preparing for the May two-year-old in training sale and advised that Feb. 1 is National Pig Day. Mr. Cashman advised that the racing schedule for the State Fair would be the same as in past years, but the Fair would be extended for an additional weekend. Dan Myer of the Maryland Standardbred Breeders reported that Jackie McCloud was recently appointed as the President of the Maryland Standardbred Breeders.

Next Commission Meeting.

April 5, 2022, at Laurel Park starting at 12:30 P.M.

Michael J. Algeo

Chairman