Ritvo Talks Racing Industry With Students

Tim Ritvo, chief operating officer of The Stronach Group, spent part of the day April 20 at the University of Maryland as a guest lecturer for a class on "Gambling in the New Millennium."

Ritvo spoke to a group of about 80 students on the University of Maryland's main campus. The innovative class, which touches on poker, the Preakness Stakes (gr. I) point spreads, the lottery, and public policy, is instructed by professor Stephen McDaniel.

Ritvo spoke about The Stronach Group's passion and effort to help revitalize Thoroughbred racing, competition within the pari-mutuel industry, the importance of the Maryland Thoroughbred industry, and ideas to attract a wider audience for the sport. He also took several questions from students.

According to a Maryland Jockey Club release, it was the third time Ritvo spoke at the university. He was accompanied last spring by Mike Rogers, executive board member of The Stronach Group, which operates Laurel Park and Pimlico Race Course via the MJC.

"I am very appreciative that Tim Ritvo has been gracious enough to come speak to the undergraduate students in my course," McDaniel said. "The class covers the various sectors of the industry, including pari-mutuel gambling. Maryland has a storied tradition when it comes to horse racing. It is also an economic engine that extends beyond hosting the Preakness.

"So, I think it is important for our students to gain an appreciation for this, as well as for where the business is headed on a national level. Given Tim's position with The Stronach Group, he provides the class with unique insights on Thoroughbred racing in Maryland and beyond. He is also very honest with the class, as to some mistakes that the racing industry has made over the years and how they have worked to address them."