Winter Sprintfest

The Maryland Jockey Club has released the list of nominees for the three stakes that make up the "Winter Sprintfest". The seven-furlong Grade II Barbara Fritchie Breeders’ Cup Handicap and the 1-1/8 mile John B. Campbell will be run on Saturday, February 17. The seven-furlong General George (GII) is slated for Monday, February 19.

The highlight on the cards for me is the General George. Two Laurel Park based four year olds stars, Sweetnorthernsaint, and Ah Day will go head-to-head. In addition to the local stars, Bishop Court and Diabolical have also been nominated.

The Maryland Jockey Club has added some promotions to help lure the fans to the track for the weekend of racing. Autograph Sessions, Preakness ticket drawings, and a special winners circle presentation to last years top Maryland jock, Rosie Napravnik. For the kids, they will have face painting, family fun games, and a free sports bag.

It is sad when you need to run promotions on a day when you have some of the best horses in the country running at your track. Does free admission, a free sports bag, and face painting really bring more people to the track?