Maryland horsemen have significantly benefited from a collaborative dual-state stakes program with Virginia, which expanded racing opportunities and purse money during Maryland’s summer racing hiatus. The partnership allowed traditionally Maryland-based stakes races to be held at Virginia’s Colonial Downs, increasing the Maryland-bred stakes program from $1.05 million to $1.8 million. Maryland-bred and -sired horses dominated the early part of the schedule, earning over 72% of the total purse money despite many races being hosted in Virginia. The program also includes increased purses for upcoming races and a new $600,000 Maryland-Bred Owner & Developer Bonus Program, rewarding local horses competing at Colonial Downs and Delaware Park.

This regional cooperation was driven by Maryland’s stronger foal crop and the need to maintain racing continuity while Laurel Park was dark in July and August. The bonus program, based on a points system, incentivizes participation across various claiming race levels and splits rewards between owners and developers. Overall, the expanded stakes purses, increased race values, and bonus incentives have provided substantial advantages for Maryland horsemen, underscoring the value of ongoing collaboration between the two states’ racing industries.