The historic 400-acre Sagamore Farm, an esteemed equestrian estate located in Reisterstown, is now up for sale with a price tag of $22 million. Kevin Plank, the founder and CEO of Under Armour, has decided to part ways with this Baltimore County landmark. He expresses his sentiment by saying it's time for someone new to take over and continue its legacy. Plank had established a thoroughbred racing operation here, aiming to breed and train horses for prestigious events like the Kentucky Derby and Preakness.
Sagamore Farm has long been a symbol of excellence in the world of horse racing and breeding. Established decades ago, it has witnessed numerous champions emerge from its grounds. When Kevin Plank acquired the property, he brought with him ambitious plans to revitalize the farm’s reputation. Over the years, he invested significantly in infrastructure, facilities, and equine talent. The farm became not only a training ground but also a breeding center where top-tier horses were nurtured.
Plank's vision extended beyond just winning races; he wanted to create a sustainable environment that would foster future generations of racehorses. To achieve this, he introduced modern techniques and technologies into traditional practices. This blend of innovation and heritage helped elevate Sagamore Farm's status within the industry. However, despite these efforts, Plank now feels it's appropriate to entrust the farm to a new owner who can carry forward his mission.
The decision to sell comes after careful consideration. Plank believes that while he has achieved much during his tenure, there are fresh opportunities waiting for those who will inherit this magnificent piece of land. For potential buyers interested in preserving and advancing the rich tradition of Sagamore Farm, this represents a unique chance to own a piece of history and shape its future direction.
This transaction marks the beginning of a new chapter for Sagamore Farm. As it transitions ownership, many hope that the incoming steward will honor the farm's legacy while introducing new ideas and innovations. The community eagerly awaits what lies ahead for this iconic equestrian estate, confident that it will continue to thrive under capable hands.
In the heart of Texas, Austin's Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) is gearing up for a significant capital improvement initiative. The department is developing its 2026 integrated bond, which will allocate over $1.8 billion to fund more than 350 projects aimed at enhancing the city’s green spaces and recreational facilities. This new bond comes after an unusually long eight-year gap since the last one in 2018, reflecting the growing need to address the strain on existing infrastructure due to rapid urban expansion. The projects will focus on acquiring new land, renovating existing facilities, and ensuring sustainability and safety improvements across various parks and recreation sites.
In the crisp days of late February 2025, the Parks and Recreation Board convened to discuss the progress of the upcoming 2026 bond program. Jesús Aguirre, the director of PARD, highlighted the challenges posed by the delayed bond cycle, noting that the extended period has led to noticeable wear and tear on the city's recreational assets. With over 20,000 acres of green space, including 355 parks, 269 miles of trails, and numerous sports facilities, maintaining these amenities requires substantial financial resources. The department aims to secure funding for seven key categories, ranging from land acquisition to major renovations of cultural centers and swimming pools. Aguirre emphasized the importance of addressing the deteriorating conditions of maintenance facilities, which are crucial for the long-term sustainability of the entire park system. The bond also seeks to keep pace with the city's growth by acquiring additional land for future parks, ensuring green spaces that promote environmental and community well-being.
The selection process for projects included in the bond package will be guided by five criteria: social equity, proactive reinvestment, sustainability, leveraging funds, and strategic direction. These criteria ensure that the investments align with the department's vision of being an innovative leader in parks and recreation experiences. Assistant City Manager Robert Goode provided an update on the bond program in January, and the Bond Election Advisory Task Force is expected to finalize the project list by early July.
From a journalist's perspective, this ambitious bond program underscores the critical role that public investment plays in preserving and enhancing urban green spaces. It highlights the delicate balance between accommodating rapid growth and maintaining the quality of life for residents. The success of this initiative will not only improve the physical infrastructure but also foster stronger communities by providing accessible and inclusive recreational opportunities. As the city continues to grow, initiatives like the 2026 bond serve as a reminder of the importance of sustainable planning and community engagement.