The Maryland Jockey Club (MJC) is the nation’s oldest sporting organization, founded in 1743. It is currently the corporate entity that operates Laurel Park Racecourse in Laurel, Maryland, which is the state’s premier destination for Thoroughbred horse racing.
Key Information
Primary Location: Laurel Park Racecourse (Route 198 & Racetrack Road, Laurel, MD 20725)
Phone: (301) 725-0400
Email: info@marylandracing.com
The Maryland Jockey Club offers a variety of experiences beyond live racing:
Live Racing & Simulcasting: Live Thoroughbred racing occurs on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, with a first race start time of 12:00 PM. Simulcast racing is available Wednesday through Sunday.
Dining: Options range from casual concession stands to sit-down restaurants like TIPS and Tycoons Restaurant and Bar. Sunday brunch is also available.
Event Hosting: The facility offers over 40,000 sq. ft. of flexible event space for private functions, including weddings, conferences, and galas.
Betting: Patrons can place wagers at mutual tellers or self-service terminals. Admission is FREE, and FREE self-serve parking is available on-site.
Founded in Annapolis, the Maryland Jockey Club held its first recorded formal horse race in Maryland in May 1743, with the winner receiving the Annapolis Subscription Plate. Prominent historical figures, including President George Washington and President Andrew Jackson, were members of the Maryland Jockey Club and attended its race meetings. In 1873, Pimlico Race Course, also operated by the Maryland Jockey Clug, staged the inaugural Preakness Stakes.
Laurel Park will host the 151st running of the Preakness Stakes on Saturday, May 16, 2026, after which racing operations are slated to consolidate at Pimlico Race Course following extensive renovations.
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 130
Laurel, MD 20725
Physical Address:
RT 198 & Racetrack Road
Laurel, MD 20725
Phone: (301) 725-0400
