A traveling exhibition in Reisterstown celebrates the significant contributions of African American pioneers to Maryland’s horse racing industry. The exhibit features stories from renowned figures like Raymond Clay, a celebrated trainer inducted into Churchill Downs’ Hall of Fame. Clay’s journey began as a runaway child with a horse, leading him to West Virginia and eventually to becoming an accomplished trainer. Despite facing racial discrimination, Clay persevered and achieved remarkable success. The exhibition also highlights the historical involvement of African Americans in thoroughbred racing since its inception after the Civil War. It showcases rare photographs, documents, and personal accounts, revealing lesser-known facts such as the early Kentucky Derby victories by African American jockeys.
The Legacy of African American Trainers and Jockeys
The exhibition pays tribute to the trailblazing trainers and jockeys who shaped the sport of horse racing. One of the notable figures is Raymond Clay, whose career spanned decades and saw numerous victories at various tracks. Clay’s story is both inspiring and challenging, reflecting the obstacles faced by African Americans in the industry. His brother had to intervene with the Maryland Racing Commission to secure stalls for him, highlighting the systemic barriers that existed. Clay’s upcoming book will be featured at the Maryland Horse Library and Education Center, chronicling the history of African American participation in thoroughbred racing from its early days to the present era.
Clay’s journey began when he ran away from Baltimore as a child, not to join the circus but with a horse to West Virginia. This unconventional start led him to become one of the most successful trainers in the 20th century. He recounts how his brother had to advocate for him to receive basic facilities like stalls, which were initially denied to African American trainers. Clay’s resilience and talent eventually earned him recognition, including induction into the Hall of Fame at Churchill Downs. His story is just one of many highlighted in the exhibition, showcasing the rich history and enduring legacy of African Americans in horse racing.
Introducing the Next Generation to Horse Racing
The “Heart of the Turf” exhibit aims to educate visitors about the pivotal role African Americans have played in horse racing. Originating from Kentucky’s historic Keeneland Library, the exhibition brings together rare photographs, historical documents, and personal narratives. Maryanna Skowronski, assistant executive director of the Maryland Horse Foundation, emphasizes the importance of this history, noting that African American jockeys won several early Kentucky Derbies. The exhibit also introduces the public to figures like George “Spider” Anderson, born in Baltimore, who became the first African American jockey to win the Preakness Stakes in 1889.
To ensure this legacy continues, initiatives like City Ranch in Woodlawn are working to expose more children of color to the horse racing industry. The organization offers introductory equine programs, including school visits and field trips, providing hands-on learning experiences. Founder Ahesahmahk Dahn believes that exposure is key: once children see the possibilities, they can make informed decisions about pursuing careers in the industry. The “Heart of the Turf” exhibit will be on display at the library until Friday, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore this rich history from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
A Strategic Pause: Assessing the Long-Term Viability of Horse Racing at Fresno Fair
Historical Significance and Recent Challenges
The Big Fresno Fair has long been a cornerstone of local culture, with horse racing as one of its most beloved traditions since 1883. However, recent developments have cast a shadow over this storied event. The California Authority of Racing Fairs (CARF) decided not to submit applications for summer race meets, signaling a shift in the industry's landscape. Financial hurdles from the Golden State Racing meet in Pleasanton, coupled with rising concerns over horse injuries and fatalities, have contributed to this cautious approach. These factors underscore the need for a thorough reassessment of the sport's sustainability.The economic challenges faced by the racing industry are multifaceted. The financial strain on organizers, compounded by the high costs of maintaining race tracks and ensuring animal welfare, has led to difficult decisions. The recent incidents involving horse injuries have sparked public debate and scrutiny, raising questions about the ethical implications of continuing these events. The fair's leadership recognizes the importance of addressing these issues to ensure the long-term health of both the sport and the community it serves.Evaluating Alternatives and Exploring New Opportunities
In light of these challenges, the Big Fresno Fair is exploring alternative entertainment options to keep the Grandstand vibrant and engaging for visitors. CEO Christina Estrada emphasized that this pause provides an opportunity to evaluate all aspects of the event, including potential partnerships and innovative approaches to entertainment. The fair remains committed to serving the community year-round, offering a diverse range of activities that cater to various interests.This strategic pause also allows for deeper collaboration with industry leaders to explore viable solutions. By working closely with experts and stakeholders, the fair aims to identify sustainable paths forward. The focus is on creating an environment where both tradition and innovation can coexist, ensuring that the fair continues to thrive while adapting to changing circumstances. The exploration of new entertainment options will likely include interactive experiences, cultural performances, and family-friendly activities that align with the fair's mission.Commitment to Community and Industry Evolution
The Big Fresno Fair's decision to postpone horse racing reflects a commitment to responsible stewardship and long-term planning. CEO Estrada highlighted the careful consideration behind this move, emphasizing the need to protect the fair's economic stability while preserving its cultural significance. The fair's leadership acknowledges the emotional attachment many have to horse racing but stresses the importance of prioritizing safety and sustainability.As the industry evolves, the fair is positioning itself as a leader in embracing change. By staying attuned to emerging trends and best practices, the organization aims to foster a resilient and adaptable environment. The ongoing dialogue with industry professionals and community members will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the fair. Ultimately, this period of evaluation represents an opportunity to strengthen the fair's offerings and ensure its relevance for generations to come.A distinguished group of individuals will join the ranks of the Washington Racing Hall of Fame in 2025, as announced by Emerald Downs. Among the notable inductees is Mark Glatt, a California-based trainer who has made significant strides in the racing world. Raised near Emerald Downs, Glatt followed in his father Ron’s footsteps and has achieved remarkable success at Santa Anita Park, where he currently leads the trainer standings. His accomplishments include conditioning top-tier horses that have won prestigious Grade I races.
The 2025 class also honors breeders Ron and Nina Hagen for their outstanding contributions to Washington horse breeding. El Dorado Farms, owned by the Hagens, has been recognized multiple times as the state's leading breeder. Another key figure being honored is Paskey Dedomenico, an owner whose dedication to Washington racing has spanned decades. Dedomenico was instrumental in shaping the local horse market, consistently purchasing more horses than any other buyer in the state over a 20-year period. Additionally, Wasserman, a beloved horse that once topped the earnings list at Emerald Downs, will be celebrated for its impressive career and popularity among fans.
The induction ceremony will take place on Saturday, August 16, marking the 20th annual celebration at Emerald Downs. This event precedes the highly anticipated 90th running of the Longacres Mile, a race with a rich history and tradition. The recognition of these influential figures underscores the enduring legacy and vibrant community within Washington’s horse racing industry, highlighting the passion and dedication that continue to drive this sport forward.