In his op-ed, John Piassek critiques Michael Musto’s proposal for a unified Mid-Atlantic horse racing circuit, which centers on drastically reducing racing days to supposedly strengthen the industry. Piassek argues that cutting dates so sharply—potentially by 60%—would harm breeders, horsemen, and smaller operations by reducing racing opportunities and incentives to breed state-certified horses. He highlights that past contractions in the region have correlated with steep declines in foal numbers and stallions, suggesting that fewer races have not led to growth but rather accelerated industry decline.

Instead, Piassek advocates for a Mid-Atlantic circuit focused on sustainable growth through increased cooperation among states, such as coordinated stakes schedules, cross-border bonuses, and regulatory changes to encourage collaboration. While some reduction in dates may be inevitable, he stresses that the goal should be to expand opportunities and strengthen all states’ racing industries rather than slash schedules and risk putting many participants out of business. Ultimately, he warns that “less isn’t more” and that cutting racing days is not a viable path to revitalizing Mid-Atlantic horse racing.