Viral Campaign Recognizes Those Working Behind the Scenes

LAUREL, MD – While the spotlight regularly shines on the horses and horsemen that bring national and international attention to Maryland’s Thoroughbred industry, the Maryland Jockey Club has launched a campaign to recognize the people whose passion and work behind the scenes play a large part in that success.

Created by administrative manager Erin McElwee, “Backstretch Heroes” is a regular series on MJC social media platforms that shines a spotlight on people working at Laurel Park and Pimlico Race Course who go above and beyond to help things run smoothly and provide their horses with the best care possible.

“We have made it our mission to highlight these people and celebrate their love for the horse,” MJC Racing Secretary Chris Merz said. “We are also in contact with I Am Horse Racing to help them and us expand our horizons and recognize these fantastic people.”

I Am Horse Racing is a 501(c)(4) that shares personal stories and videos from racing people and helps serve as an advocate for the industry on its website, www.iamhorseracing.org

The first “Backstretch Heroes” installments on grooms Juan Lopez and Veronica Sherriel Reed and trainers Dove Houghton and Jeremiah O’Dwyer can be found at:

Lopez:
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O’Dwyer:
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Sherriel Reed:
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Dove Houghton:
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