BALTIMORE — The Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority (MTROA) proudly announces the inaugural board of directors for The Maryland Jockey Club, Inc., a newly formed nonprofit entity charged with overseeing live Thoroughbred racing at Laurel Park, Pimlico Race Course—home of the world-renowned Preakness Stakes, the second jewel of racing’s Triple Crown—and a new, state-of-the-art training facility built in Carroll County Maryland.

This milestone reflects the bold vision of Governor Wes Moore and the MTROA. The Authority was established to secure the long-term stability and modernization of Thoroughbred racing in the state, and it played a central role in establishing The Maryland Jockey Club, Inc. as a nonprofit operator that prioritizes the interests of horsemen, fans, and the broader Maryland community.

The newly appointed board members represent a diverse and dynamic group of individuals with backgrounds in horse racing, veterinary medicine, finance, entrepreneurship, community development, and public service. Their collective leadership and experience will guide the organization through a critical period of transition and growth for Maryland racing.

Greg Cross, chair of the MTROA, commented, “I could not be more thrilled that this all-star group has agreed to volunteer their deep experience and time to take the baton from MTROA and build off of the new foundation that is in place for Maryland racing as we look to the future.”

His statement mirrors those of others in the industry.

“The Maryland Horse Breeders Association looks forward to working with the State and the new Maryland Jockey Club Board as we work to revitalize Maryland’s horse industry,” says executive director Cricket Goodall. “With a new Pimlico and energized Preakness coming soon, the future looks bright.”

David Richardson, Executive Director of the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association, concurred. “The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association congratulates the newly appointed Board of Directors of The Maryland Jockey Club. This group brings together a diverse and experienced cross-section of leadership that understands the historic significance and future potential of Maryland racing.”

The inaugural Board members are:

• James T. Dresher, Jr. – Owner of Glenangus Farm and CEO of Skye Asset Management; a civic and business leader with deep ties to Maryland racing.
• Tim Keefe – Accomplished trainer and former President of the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association, Tim is widely respected for his leadership and horse care advocacy.
• Chuck Tildon, VP of External Affairs at the University of Maryland Medical System, has deep experience in public engagement, equity, and economic development.
• Lisa Golden Hofstetter – Northview Stallion Station Vice President and Sycamore Hall Farm co-owner, a leading force in Maryland breeding and equine welfare.
• Michael Hopkins – Former Maryland Racing Commission Executive Director with over 40 years of experience in racing regulation and safety.
• TK Kuegler – Founder and Managing Partner of Wasabi Ventures Stable, blending tech innovation with a modern approach to racing and breeding.
• Jeff Cherry – Founder of Conscious Venture Partners and Novella Center for Entrepreneurship, Jeff is a passionate racing enthusiast and community-focused investor.
• Dr. Kathleen Anderson – Renowned equine veterinarian and Equine Medical Director of Fair Hill Training Center, Kathleen boasts decades of clinical and leadership experience in the racing industry.
• Michael D. Hankin – Co-CEO of Brown Advisory, with a distinguished finance, education, and nonprofit leadership background.

Further information about the board members is available on MTROA’s website. Together, these individuals will guide the Maryland Jockey Club, Inc. as it champions integrity, innovation, and long-term investment in Maryland’s horse racing industry. With deep roots in tradition and a bold vision for the future, the organization will support horsemen, fans, and the broader community for future generations.

About the MTROA

The Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority was established in 2023 to return the state of Maryland to a best-in-class location for Thoroughbred horse racing. The Authority comprises governor appointees, legislative leaders, and representatives of industry organizations, the Maryland Stadium Authority, the Maryland Economic Development Corporation, and areas surrounding Pimlico and Laurel Park.

Maryland’s equine industry accounts for 25% of the state’s agricultural base, generates approximately 28,000 jobs, and has a total economic impact of $3 billion.

The Maryland Jockey Club, founded in 1743, is the oldest sporting association in the United States and conducts live thoroughbred racing at Laurel Park and Pimlico Race Course. Beginning Jan. 1, 2025, The Maryland Jockey Club, a nonprofit organization under the auspices of the Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority, will oversee day-to-day racing in the state. For more information on The Maryland Jockey Club, please contact Dan Illman at Dan.Illman@marylandracing.com.