The high quality of racing itself is the main consideration; the revenues
derived therefrom, as important as they are, are of secondary signifi-
cance.

As Governor of the State, I have a deep and abiding interest in
maintaining racing of the highest calibre so that Maryland's relative
position, always at or near the top, may not be sacrificed. We are most
grateful, therefore, to the men who have operated the Laurel Race
Course for the contributions they have made over five decades for the
betterment of the sport. Particularly is this true of the past ten years,
during which time the once-modest plant at Laurel was transformed
into a race track which compares favorably with the best in the country.
Credit for this, of course, must go to Mr. John D. Schapiro and to
the group of enthusiastic far-sighted men associated with him in this
bold enterprise.

It is impossible to exaggerate the tremendous impact of the Wash-
ington, D. C. International upon Maryland racing. This exciting, unique
classic of international racing has made Laurel and Maryland bywords
in the language of sportsmen in every nation of the world where the
sport of horse racing is enjoyed. Its establishment ten years ago was
the point of departure for real resurgence of interest in racing in
Maryland. All of us, therefore, are much indebted to Mr. Schapiro
and his associates at Laurel for this most successful venture, which
was achieved, we know, not without a generous outlay of money, a
tremendous expenditure of effort and a considerable amount of patience.
And so, I am highly honored to be able to join with the members and
guests of the National Press Club in paying tribute to the men who
have guided the destinies of the Laurel Race Course over the past
50 years.

REMARKS, ADVERTISING CLUB,
COLT LUNCHEON

BALTIMORE

September 6, 1961

I was delighted when, a few days ago, I received a letter from your
program chairman inviting me here to join with the members of the
Advertising Club of Baltimore and their guests to salute and pay tribute
to a great professional athletic team. I am—as I assume everyone
else here is—a loyal and ardent fan of the Baltimore Colts. I can say

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