The co-owner of Maryland’s racetracks is trying to secure a deal that would provide 140 days of live racing in 2011.
Frank Stronach, chairman of MI Developments, which co-owns Laurel Park and Pimlico Race Course with Penn National Gaming Inc., said Dec. 18 a verbal agreement had been made with horsemen for 140 days of live racing in 2011.
But a horsemen’s representative denied a deal had been made.
Richard Hoffberger, president of the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association, said: “I met with Penn; they said we don't have a deal.”
Another horsemen's representative said Dec. 19 no agreement had been reached between the parties.
Racetrack ownership and horsemen in the state have failed to reach any kind of accord that would allow live racing to be scheduled in 2011. A Maryland Racing Commission meeting is scheduled for Dec. 22
The live Thoroughbred racing season ended Dec. 18 at Laurel. With no deal in place, simulcast wagering in Maryland could end Dec. 31.