Pimlico Race Course, home to the Preakness Stakes, is set to close its off-track betting facility in Baltimore, Maryland. The closure of the facility, which has been in operation since the early 1970s, is due to a decline in revenue and a shift in focus to other forms of gambling.

The closure of the off-track betting facility is a major blow to the racing industry in the area. The facility was a popular spot for horse racing fans, providing an opportunity to bet on races without having to travel to the track. It was also a major source of revenue for the track, as well as for the state of Maryland.

The closure of the facility will have a ripple effect on the local economy. The facility employed dozens of people, many of whom will now be out of work. Additionally, the closure will mean a loss of revenue for the state, as well as for the track itself.

The closure of the off-track betting facility is part of a larger trend in the horse racing industry. With the rise of online gambling, many tracks have seen a decline in revenue from off-track betting. This has led to a shift in focus away from off-track betting and towards other forms of gambling, such as online casinos and sports betting.

The closure of the off-track betting facility at Pimlico Race Course is a major blow to the racing industry in the area. It is yet another example of how the industry is shifting away from traditional forms of gambling and towards more modern forms. While it is unfortunate that this facility had to close, it is likely that other tracks in the area will follow suit in order to remain competitive.