Preakness Future In Doubt After Racing Vote

LAUREL, Md. (AP) - The future of the Preakness Stakes, the second leg of horse racing's Triple Crown, was in doubt Monday after the state racing commission rejected plans for a much shorter live racing schedule at Maryland's two tracks.

The commission, which turned down the plan by an 8-0 vote, told representatives of MI Developments and Penn National Gaming, partners in operating the Maryland Jockey Club, that its plan for 17 days of live thoroughbred racing at Laurel Park in January followed by 30 live days at Pimlico Race Course in April and May was unacceptable. The two venues are currently on track for 146 days of live racing this year.

The lack of an agreement for the future threatens racetrack employees, all off-track wagering in the state and the future of the Preakness, a Baltimore tradition that was set for May 21 at Pimlico.

Live racing is scheduled to conclude on Dec. 18 with simulcasting of out-of-state races continuing through the end of the year.

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