Cooperation Breeding Success In Maryland
Longtime owner and breeder Bob Manfuso liked what he saw on Jim MacKay Maryland Million Day this year, and he believes it’s a direct result of investment in racing and cooperation among stakeholders in the state.
Manfuso, who owns and operates Chanceland Farm in West Friendship, Md., with trainer Katherine Voss, noted the “spectacular” capital improvements at Laurel Park and the size and diversity of the crowd that attended the Oct. 22 program that showcases the progeny of Maryland sires. He said the “passion for racing” shown by Tim Ritvo, chief operating officer of The Stronach Group; Maryland Jockey Club president and general manager Sal Sinatra; and their team is producing benefits.
“I think the results on Maryland Million Day are a reflection of that,” said Manfuso, a member of the MTHA Board of irectors. “It was particularly fun to see the diversity of the people who had a great time. It was a positive experience for us who have been in the game a day or two and for newcomers as well.
“What we’re seeing in Maryland is a simple fact: Success is a direct reflection of the quality of the team that operates the local racetrack. They recognize that they need to provide entertainment for fans as well as owners and trainers.”
On the breeding side of the business, Manfuso noted the more than 15% increase in Thoroughbred mares bred in Maryland in 2016 is tied to a sense of optimism in the state. Manfuso is the breeder of 2016 Kentucky Oaks winner Cathryn Sophia, who was bred to the Kentucky stallion Street Boss but was foaled in Maryland.
“I was excited about the Maryland-bred potential,” he said. “The owner and breeder bonuses here can compete with any state. It’s very positive time for Maryland.”
MTHA president Tim Keefe said that wasn’t always the case.
“I always remember growing up here that horsemen and management never really got along,” said Keefe, a Maryland native whose stable is based at Laurel. “Everybody was on a different page. There were aspirations toward the same goals but (the groups) took different paths to get there.”
Keefe said another important development is that the Maryland Horse Breeders Association and MTHA now have congenial working relationship.
“Things seem to be aligning really well right now,” he said. “When we do have arguments and disagreements we get in a room and iron things out. There are a lot of good people on both boards.
“Everything is headed in the right direction. People in Annapolis have told us there’s one thing we need to know: ‘Figure out how to work together.’ That’s what we’re really trying to focus on.”
