Maryland Racing Commission approves 10-year racing agreement

By: SPORTS NETWORK

Laurel, MD (Sports Network) - Tuesday afternoon the Maryland Racing Commission approved last week's 10-year racing agreement that had been reached among the state's thoroughbred racing groups. The Maryland Jockey Club will have 146 days of live thoroughbred racing in 2013.

"The long-term agreement will provide stability after years of uncertainty," Maryland Jockey Club president Tom Chuckas said. "Next year is a year of transition with most of the changes beginning in 2014."

Laurel Park will have a 51-day winter meet starting Jan. 1. The spring meet at Pimlico Race Course gets underway April 4 with 36 days of live racing highlighted by the running of the 138th Preakness Stakes on Saturday, May 18.

There will be a 14-week hiatus after which live racing returns to Laurel Park for the 59-day autumn meet beginning Sept. 19.