The Maryland Thoroughbred racing industry is currently in the process of seeking approval for a satellite simulcast facility at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium, MD. The industry groups including the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association, Maryland Horse Breeders’ Association, Maryland Jockey Club along with the Maryland State Fair are united in support of this venture.

The new proposed satellite simulcast facility is planned to be on the second floor of the grandstand of historic Timonium racetrack. The intent of the OTB space, which is currently utilized for a ten day annual race meet held during the State Fair, will be open throughout the year as an amenity to the State Fairgrounds with the intention to compliment the other events held at the venue. This facility will be adjacent to the current dining room. The dining room and satellite simulcast facility area will be completely renovated with the dining room operated by Hightopps Backstage Grill, a local community establishment.

As stewards of the heritage of Maryland racing, it is our collective mission to grow the sport of thoroughbred racing within our state. With growth, not only does the horse industry benefit but the entire state of Maryland benefit. This industry is estimated to be a $1.6 billion dollar industry in Maryland and each and every one of you play a part in this industry. The satellite simulcast facility is a great tool to help grow awareness to our industry.

Since the announcement of the original hearing, there has been some community opposition to this venture. These opposing community associations and their members have been contacting their respective representatives to voice their opposition. It is our opinion that their opposition is more through lack of knowledge of what an “OTB” actually is, but they have a right to protect their neighborhood.

There will be an Open House at Timonium on Wednesday, February 10 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., on the second floor of the Grandstand of historic Timonium racetrack to view the site of the proposed new satellite simulcast facility. This renovated space incorporates the original lounge and dining room areas, which have been updated and refurbished. The dining facility will be operated by local community establishment Hightopps Backstage Grill, who are planning to offer many Maryland products from microbrews and wine to local meat and produce.

Use the Timonium Road entrance to the Fairgrounds and go to the North end of the Grandstand.

Further, in an effort to show your support to the Timonium satellite simulcast facility, we implore you to contact your county council representative through email or phone call as soon as possible.

The link to your representative’s contact information is available here.

We have included a sample letter below for you to copy and paste into a blank email, feel free to use it.

In closing, on THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11 at 6:00 p.m., the Maryland Racing Commission Hearing will take place at the Timonium Fairgrounds located at 2200 York Road, Timonium, Maryland 20193 in the Museum building at the Race Course.

Please mark your calendar and, if at all possible, attend. This is a time of growth in the horse industry, and as we have learned from the past, our collective voices heard as one unified group will show why we as an industry are important to the State of Maryland.

Sample Letter

Dear ,

Please accept this letter as an act of support for the satellite simulcast facility proposed for the Timonium Fairgrounds. As a member of the horse industry and resident of , this facility has a direct impact on an industry I base my livelihood on. This facility would not be detrimental to the community. The facility will not only have an impact for the horse industry but also assist the fairgrounds with its ability to maintain and improve its grounds and buildings.

The partnership of the entities involved in the project represents far reaching arms in our industry. Our industry is working on ways to find sustainable revenue at one time ranked third in the country, but had fallen on tough times, until recently. This project brings awareness and growth to a substantial Maryland industry whose combined economic effect on the State has been estimated to be over $1.6 billion a year. Efforts to continue growth in this industry secures jobs and open space.

I implore you to support this venture, as it would be an asset not only to the horse industry but to Baltimore County as well.

Sincerely,