Improvements to Laurel Park will include construction of a mixed-use environment around the trackLAUREL PARK
The Stronach Group, which owns Pimlico Race Course and Laurel Park, continues to "make the case that it is increasingly impractical to operate two racetracks in such close proximity," according to Peter Schmuck of the BALTIMORE SUN. Stronach Group Chair & President Belinda Stronach’s vision for the "future of horse racing -- both in Maryland and around the country -- features 'super tracks' like the company’s Gulfstream Park (Fla.) in both the Baltimore-Washington area and Southern California." From all "outward indications, the one in Maryland will be in Laurel and will eventually host the Preakness," which is currently run at Pimlico. Stronach said, "The racing, gaming and entertainment company is in great shape." Meanwhile, improvements to Laurel Park "continue." The track has a "new sports book that features a huge scoreboard-like television display" that will be "fully operational" if/when Maryland legalizes sports gambling. The Stronach Group also is "working on several other fronts to make Laurel a complete racing and entertainment site." That plan includes a "state-of-the-art training complex and the upcoming start of construction on the first phase" of Stronach's "broader vision of a mixed-use environment around Laurel Park." She envisions the "mixed-use complex including a running trail around the racecourse and other residential amenities." Stronach: "We’re focusing heavily on an enhanced digital experience, so that everybody will be able to wager on their mobile device, whether you’re a new bettor or an experienced bettor … and not just horse betting but also the sports betting" (BALTIMORE SUN, 10/21).
FAMILY COURT: In Baltimore, Jean Marbella in a front-page piece noted a lawsuit filed by Frank Stronach against his daughter, Belinda Stronach, revealed an "explosive power struggle and spending dispute between the 86-year old patriarch and his 52-year-old heir apparent." The family feud "comes at a critical time for Maryland racing, with The Stronach Group investing heavily in Laurel and indicating it wants to move the Preakness there, and the Maryland Stadium Authority expected to release a report next month on what needs to be done to keep Pimlico viable" (BALTIMORE SUN, 10/19).
