Maryland Jockey Club Names Fritz Widaman As Senior VP

Fritz Widaman has been named Senior Vice President, Marketing and Sponsorships, the Maryland Jockey Club announced Friday.

Previously a key executive at the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA), Widaman brings over 37 years of experience to his new role. Throughout his career, Widaman has demonstrated a commitment to advancing the horse racing industry by leveraging his sales, marketing, and business development expertise to foster growth and innovation.

“We are thrilled to have Fritz join the new TMJC,” said MJC President and General Manager Bill Knauf. “He is a seasoned professional with racetrack, national sponsorship, and marketing experience, and is a perfect complement to the future of racing in Maryland.”

Widaman added: “I am excited to be part of this new chapter in Maryland racing. The history and passion of the Maryland owners, breeders, and fans is unprecedented. I look forward to being a part of the “new” Pimlico Racecourse and the Preakness. I'd like to thank Bill Knauf, TMJC, and the Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority for this outstanding opportunity, as well as Tom Rooney, the Chief Executive Officer of the NTRA, and, of course, Keith Chamblin, the Chief Operating Officer of the NTRA. Keith and I have worked together since 1995, and because of his great leadership and friendship, the NTRA will always be dear to me.”