BALTIMORE (Map, News) - Mike Hopkins is executive director of the Maryland Racing Commission, part of the state Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation. The commission oversees both the harness and thoroughbred horse racing industries in Maryland, as well as the state’s four off-track betting sites.

How important is the Preakness to Maryland’s racing industry?

It’s a vital thing to have as far as the racing industry is concerned. Someone said having the Preakness is like having the Super Bowl in town every year. It’s like the Super Bowl every third weekend in May.

Could the Preakness be moved out of Maryland?

If the Preakness is moved, there are penalties under state statute, kind of the doomsday scenario. If you move Preakness without the commission’s approval, then all the tax penalties pre-1984 come into effect. [A 1983 state statute eased taxes on money wagered at tracks.]

Are you concerned about the race being moved?

I don’t know that I’m concerned about it. That’s a hard one. Do I want to see it moved? No, of course not.

Would it be better for Maryland horse racing if the Preakness were run at Laurel?

If they [Laurel and Pimlico owner Magna Entertainment Corp.] wanted to do that, the racing commission would get involved. Would it be better for Maryland racing? Your guess is as good as mine.

Some say Pimlico’s biggest difficulty is its location in Northwest Baltimore, where there’s not much mass transit.

If you get 100,000 people out there for an event, it’s pretty popular. They’re putting seats up everywhere for the Preakness this year. They’ve been getting there somehow for 135 years.

acahall@baltimoreexaminer.com