Community Leaders, Horse Industry, Business Community and More Praise Governor Moore Preakness Announcement
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ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Wes Moore yesterday announced a new schedule and media rights partnership for the Black-Eyed Susan and Preakness Stakes races, following the State of Maryland’s acquisition of the Intellectual Property (IP) Rights to the Preakness Stakes and Black-Eyed Susan from 1/ST Racing.
Leaders from across the state and industry giants are praising the new schedule as the governor leverages the Preakness as an integral race in the Triple Crown and cornerstone of Maryland’s culture and history, here’s what they had to say:
Mayor Brandon Scott: “Having the Preakness move back a week both underscores the race's importance to the sport, and ensures that we still have a national presence. It's about evolving the race as we continue to host it in Baltimore and bring more visitors to Maryland.”
Maryland Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman: “The horse racing and breeding industry has long been an important sector in Maryland’s diverse economy and part of Baltimore’s proud history. The Preakness is a capstone event for the state and the nation, and the change in date, new marketing deal, along with the investments in Pimlico and Laurel, will ensure this industry will continue to create jobs and opportunities for Marylanders for decades to come.”
Antonio Hayes, Senator, District 40: “The Preakness is an important part of Baltimore’s history and Maryland’s identity. This new schedule strengthens its future while ensuring this treasured tradition continues to benefit Park Heights and communities across our state.”
Malcolm Ruff, Delegate, District 41: “I applaud Gov. Moore for standing strong on our historic investments in Pimlico and Park Heights. As the future Senator of Old Hilltop’s legislative district, I understand intimately how vital the success of Preakness is to our community. Retaining ownership of our intellectual property, and now securing a long-term deal with NBC will surely speed up the day when Park Heights begins to see a share of the profits of thoroughbred horse racing. This is about preserving a cherished Maryland tradition while building a sustainable future where our neighborhoods grow alongside one of the world’s premier sporting events.”
Sandy Rosenberg, Delegate, District 41: "Governor Moore, the Maryland Jockey Club, and NBC Sports should be applauded for their efforts to preserve the Preakness as a major event on the national thoroughbred racing calendar."
Aletheia McCaskill, Delegate, District 44B: “I welcome this new agreement with NBC and the thoughtful decision to adjust the dates of the Black-Eyed Susan and the Preakness Stakes while preserving the tradition of the Triple Crown and the history of horse racing. This is a necessary step that helps strengthen Maryland racing, supports stakeholders, and promotes the health and well-being of equine athletes. Having grown up in the Park Heights community, I have seen firsthand the pride and excitement that Pimlico and the Preakness bring to our neighborhoods. The annual tradition attracts people from all walks of life and showcases our community on a national stage. I look forward to continuing conversations about the future of Maryland racing and creating new opportunities that will enhance the experience for fans, support the industry's growth, and ensure this treasured tradition remains strong for our state’s history, economy, and culture for generations to come.”
Marlon Amprey, Delegate, District 40: “The Preakness belongs to Maryland and the future is brighter than ever for the horse racing industry in Maryland after Gov. Moore and the state decided to acquire full rights to the Preakness Stakes. Moving the race to a new date and creating a full week and weekend of racing will take the Preakness to new heights all while ensuring the community of Park Heights is the first to benefit. The partnership with NBC Sports ensures the world will see just how special the Preakness and Maryland horse racing truly is.”
Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier: "Given Baltimore County's long equestrian history, we are excited that the Preakness will continue to draw visitors to our region, as it has for generations. This world-class event brings an important boost to our local businesses and economy while showcasing the attractions, communities, and experiences that make the Baltimore region such a special place."
Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman: "We look forward to this new era of Preakness that will shine a spotlight on Maryland and create new opportunities for our communities and our local economy to benefit from this historic celebration."
Harry Coker, Jr., Secretary, Maryland Department of Commerce: “The Preakness is more than a beloved tradition—it is one of Maryland's most valuable economic assets and a globally recognized brand. By strengthening this iconic event through strategic investments, state stewardship of the Preakness brand, and a long-term partnership with NBC Sports, we are creating new opportunities for tourism, business growth, and private investment while showcasing Baltimore and Maryland to millions around the world. Most importantly, these investments create opportunities for Marylanders—from small businesses and hospitality workers to entrepreneurs and communities across our state—while ensuring the Preakness continues to drive economic growth, elevate Maryland's profile, and inspire pride for generations to come."
Kevin Atticks, Secretary, Maryland Department of Agriculture: “The Preakness is one of Maryland’s most recognizable brands and a powerful symbol of our state. For generations, it has showcased our horse industry while celebrating the farmers, breeders and equine professionals whose dedication makes it possible. Investing in the Preakness brand is an investment in Maryland’s agricultural heritage, rural economy and future, ensuring this iconic tradition continues to strengthen our equine industry for generations to come.”
Portia Wu, Secretary, Maryland Department of Labor: "We are excited to support this investment in the horseracing industry, which plays a critical role in our state’s economy and cultural heritage. The Maryland Department of Labor remains committed to advancing the integrity and safety of horseracing, to help ensure its vibrant future."
Craig Thompson, Chairman, Maryland Stadium Authority: Under Governor Moore’s leadership, Maryland has achieved its mission to preserve the future of the Preakness Stakes in Baltimore, where we are creating winners on and off the track. The Maryland Stadium Authority is proud to lead the state’s historic transformation of Pimlico Race Course and Laurel Park while strengthening Maryland’s thoroughbred industry and creating new opportunities for Park Heights. We look forward to showcasing everything Maryland has to offer—from its world-class facilities to its powerful equine heritage—to a nationwide primetime audience for years to come.
Nicole Earle, Chair, Maryland Racing Commission: “This moment is an exciting new chapter for horseracing in Maryland. The Maryland Racing Commission is proud to work with Governor Moore and stakeholders across the industry to envision a bold new future for the Preakness, built on more than 150 years of tradition. As always, we remain committed to the highest standards of regulatory integrity, equine welfare, and jockey safety, to ensure horseracing can continue to help Maryland's agricultural, sports, and entertainment sectors thrive, from Park Heights to communities across our state.”
Jim Dresher, Chairman, The Maryland Jockey Club: “Governor and First Lady Moore are to be commended for supporting one of Maryland’s premier sporting events, the Preakness. Their leadership in the redevelopment of Pimlico Race Track and the acquisition of the Preakness intellectual property is a game changer for the equine industry and Baltimore City. Maryland’s participation in the Triple Crown is critically important. The Preakness will continue as a great follow-up to the Kentucky Derby.”
Sheila Curry, Chair of the Maryland Horse Industry Board: “Preakness is Maryland! It blends history, tradition, sport, and community. Thank you Governor Moore and First Lady Dawn Moore for being the biggest supporters of this tradition. We stand in partnership with the administration, business leaders, and the entire equine community as we create our own destiny and shape the future of Preakness that will help our entire state grow and thrive!”
Tom Sadowski, CEO and Executive Director, Maryland Economic Development Corporation: “MEDCO is proud to have delivered the best, most cost effective solution for Maryland’s horse industry with the help of Maryland-based investors. The future of the industry and the Preakness are secure as a result. This agreement underscores what drove our historic acquisition: the Preakness remains one of Maryland’s strongest assets for economic growth, and a deeply valuable piece of its heritage.”
Yolanda Jiggetts CEO, Park Heights Renaissance: “As plans for the next chapter move forward, our focus remains on ensuring that Park Heights benefits from the investment, opportunity, and renewed attention coming to the area. We are grateful to the Governor and First Lady for emphasizing that the people who live and work here must be part of what comes next. Park Heights Renaissance will continue working to help our community reach its highest potential and we are excited to welcome everyone back to Park Heights for Preakness 2027.”
David Richardson, Executive Director, Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association: “This agreement demonstrates the tremendous value of the Preakness and the confidence NBC has in the future of Maryland racing. Having the same network televise the Kentucky Derby and Preakness is enormously beneficial. In many respects, NBC’s entire Derby broadcast becomes a national commercial for the Preakness, allowing storylines and excitement to build continuously from Louisville to Baltimore. Combined with the additional week between the races, the return to a redeveloped Pimlico and an expanded weekend, this creates an extraordinary opportunity to elevate the Preakness and Maryland racing.”
Katy Voss, President, Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association: “Governor Moore has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to protecting the Preakness and building a sustainable future for Maryland’s Thoroughbred industry. The State’s acquisition of Laurel Park and the Preakness intellectual property, the redevelopment of Pimlico and now this landmark agreement with NBC would not have been possible without his leadership. Together, these generational accomplishments give Maryland ownership of its racing future and provide our horsemen, breeders and racing fans with renewed confidence in the road ahead.”
Richard Blue, President, Maryland Horse Breeders Association: "Maryland has always been built on the dedication of its horsemen and horsewomen. The State's investment in racing gives breeders the confidence to keep investing in the next generation of horses, supporting our farms, our families, and the rural communities that make Maryland's horse industry possible."
Christian Johansson, Chair of the Preakness Festival Board: “The Preakness has always been more than a horse race; it is one of Maryland's defining cultural traditions. These changes will elevate the national and international profile of the Preakness Stakes while expanding access, deepening community engagement, and driving tourism and economic growth across Maryland. A larger, more accessible Preakness weekend will ensure this iconic tradition delivers lasting benefits to communities throughout our state for generations to come.”
Dr. Amy Burk, Professor of Equine Science, University of Maryland: "Keeping the Preakness in Maryland preserves one of our state's most iconic traditions. But even more than that, it helps ensure the horses, jobs, talent, and economic impact that define Maryland's horse industry stay right here in our state. I hope a strong racing industry will inspire the next generation to become part of that future."
Jamie Raley, President, Maryland Farm Bureau: "Maryland's horse racing heritage runs deep, dating all the way back to the founding of the Maryland Jockey Club in 1743. By securing the future of the Preakness and the Black-Eyed Susan, the Moore-Miller Moore administration is recognizing the importance to preserve and promote the horse-racing tradition in Maryland."
Kathleen M. Anderson, DVM, Equine Veterinary Care, PC & Board Member of the Maryland Jockey Club: “Rebuild it and they will come! An equine field of dreams! Maryland is poised for the first time in many years to truly grow and support the statewide equine community and the city of Baltimore through a remarkable commitment from Governor Moore. Public ownership of both the Maryland racehorse facilities, and the IP Rights of the historic Preakness race and the Black Eyed Susan race, provides both communities the opportunity to grow and flourish within a Maryland horse centric culture that puts responsible stewardship of all horses within the state as a priority. As an equine veterinarian who has practiced in Maryland for almost 40 years I have never been so excited about our future!”
Graham Motion, Kentucky Derby winning trainer and Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association Board Member: “Bringing the Derby winner to the Preakness is unlike anything else in racing. I was lucky enough to experience it with Animal Kingdom. The energy is incredible, and it feels like the whole crowd is behind you. It’s a moment every trainer dreams of.”
ESPN: Preakness Stakes to be held on a Sunday in Triple Crown first
- The Preakness Stakes is moving to three weeks and a day after the Kentucky Derby and is set to be run on a Sunday for the first time.
- Maryland Gov. Wes Moore and the Maryland Jockey Club announced the move Wednesday. No Triple Crown race has ever been run on a Sunday in the century-plus-old history of the series.
- The shift marks a major change on the horse racing calendar, following significant debate and speculation. Except for 2020 during the pandemic, the Preakness has taken place on the third Saturday in May, two weeks after the Kentucky Derby, since 1950.
WBAL: NBC Sports, Maryland Jockey Club extend partnership to air Preakness on NBC, Peacock into 2032
- NBC Sports the Maryland Jockey Club on Wednesday announced a multiyear partnership extension that will keep the Preakness Stakes on NBC and Peacock through 2032.
- "Today's news is truly historic. It's historic because, for everybody here, our future is in our hands," Gov. Wes Moore said Wednesday.
- "This extension is a testament to the strength of the relationship between the Maryland Jockey Club and NBC Sports and underscores our commitment to horse racing," Jon Miller, NBC Sports' president of acquisitions and partnerships, said in a statement.
- "This agreement now means millions more people will be able to tune in and watch this iconic race weekend," Moore said Wednesday. "It also means that when they view this race ... it means that more people will watch and witness the greatest show in the Mid-Atlantic and continue to see Maryland on the world stage, exactly where Maryland belongs."
WRC: Preakness moves to new date as Maryland aims to secure future of premiere horse race
- The Preakness Stakes is moving to three weeks and a day after the Kentucky Derby and is set to be run on a Sunday for the first time.
- The date change is to ensure the winner of the Kentucky Derby can compete in the Preakness, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said at a press conference Wednesday.
- Moore and the Maryland Jockey Club announced the move Wednesday. No Triple Crown race has ever been run on a Sunday in the century-plus-old history of the series.
- The date change aims to get more Derby horses to participate in the second leg of the Triple Crown. For decades, it was the norm, but has become increasingly rare in recent years.
- "Preakness can and will remain the second jewel of the Triple Crown, and nothing will change that," Moore said.
WUSA9: Saving the Preakness: Gov. Moore answers Churchill Downs snub with major date change
- In a historic shift for Maryland’s premier sporting event, Gov. Wes Moore announced that the Preakness Stakes will move back on the calendar starting in 2027, sliding eight days to Sunday.
- The decision pushes the second leg of horse racing’s Triple Crown from its traditional slot two weeks after the Kentucky Derby to a three-week gap. State leaders and racing officials say the extra recovery time is vital to protecting Maryland's massive public investment in thoroughbred racing by ensuring top-tier horses—including Kentucky Derby winners—continue competing at Pimlico.
- The schedule shift comes at a critical time for Maryland racing. Over the past year, the state has committed over $500 million toward acquiring, redeveloping, and operating its key racing assets. That overhaul includes purchasing Laurel Park, rebuilding Baltimore’s historic Pimlico Race Course, and officially buying the intellectual property rights to the Preakness Stakes itself.
WMAR: Maryland announces historic changes to Preakness weekend
- Governor Wes Moore emphasized that the Preakness remains "the second leg of the Triple Crown."
- "Our legacy is strong because our people are strong," said Dawn Moore. "Preakness is not just about a race; it is about preserving our history, it is about uplifting our communities, it is about embracing our culture."
- "This is what Maryland comes together for," said First Lady Dawn Moore in her introduction to her husband.
- Governor Wes Moore said the horse racing industry generates $3 billion in revenue for the state of Maryland and that no taxpayer funds from the General Fund were used to pay for the intellectual property rights of the Preakness Stakes and the Black-Eyed Susan Stakes in a transaction finalized last week.
- "You cannot control your future if you do not own it," Governor Wes Moore said. "If you want to win the Triple Crown, we'll see you in Baltimore."
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