Historically, VA is considered the birthplace of racing and had numerous tracks up until the civil war having only short fleeting glimpses of the game in the later half of the 20th century. It is MD that sustained racing along the Mid-Atlantic to the era of modern racing. Looking back at that history is enjoyable and if you wear safety equipment a visit to Pimilico, Bowie, or Timonium can be just as exciting as you walk in the steps of many great horses and their connections.
https://www.thoroughbredracing.com/articles/lost-racecourses-maryland/
I go to Bel Air frequently and never knew about the old track. I’ve heard rumors about one of the first Maryland tracks existing in my home town, not far from Laurel, and I’ve been planning to go check out the site to see if I can find any proof of that. I’ve been to Bowie to watch morning workouts and knew it closed last year. Many of those with horses at Bowie are now at Pimlico. Bowie was in a sad state, I must admit.