J. Keeler Johnson handicaps the Sam F. Davis Stakes at Tampa Bay Downs.

R. Larry Johnson, who put his stamp on the Mid-Atlantic Thoroughbred industry on racetracks, in breeding sheds, and in boardrooms in Maryland and Virginia, died Feb. 4. He was 78.

The Sam F. Davis Stakes is a solid first step toward a starting spot in the Kentucky Derby (G1) as it awards 20-10-6-4-2 qualifying points to the top 5 finishers in the 1 1/16-mile stakes.

R. Larry Johnson, who put his stamp on the Mid-Atlantic Thoroughbred industry on racetracks, in breeding sheds, and in boardrooms in Maryland and Virginia, passed away Feb. 4. He was 78.

Headlined by the 150th running of the Preakness Stakes (G1), middle jewel of the Triple Crown, a total of 16 stakes, eight graded, worth $4.3 million in purses will be contested May 16-17 at Pimlico Race Course.

The Kentucky Equine Education Project is set to host its annual KEEP Day at the Capitol Feb. 13 in Frankfort, Ky.

Veterinarian Dr. John Wiseman of Batavia, Ill., died Jan. 24. He was 79.

When action resumes for the 23rd season of Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing April 15, a record amount of purse money will be offered for the premier racing schedule at Horseshoe Indianapolis Racing.

WinStar Farm and CHC’s undefeated 3-year-old colt River Thames bounced out of his Feb. 1 allowance optional claiming victory in good order and will have plenty of options moving forward, Hall of Fame trainer Todd Pletcher said.

Enable will be bred to Haras de Bonneval’s Siyouni, while Bluestocking will commence her breeding career with a mating to Dalham Hall Stud’s Dubawi.