The Maryland Jockey Club announced yesterday evening (March 5, 2020) that it has appointed Jillian Tullock as racing secretary at Laurel Park and Pimlico Race Course. Former racing secretary Chris Mertz has moved back to Santa Anita as director of racing.

Tullock has worked in nearly every capacity for MJC starting in 1994, including assistant racing secretary under Georganne Hale. “It’s great to be back with people I know and love,” Tullock said. “I look forward to working with everyone at the Maryland Jockey Club, the 1/ST Racing team, and horsemen throughout North America. Thoroughbred racing in Maryland continues to grow, and I’m very excited about the future.”

Tullock grew up in Saratoga Springs, NY and has a sports management degree. She spent summers working in the racing office of the New York Racing Association tracks. Here in Maryland, Tullock graduated from the steward’s accreditation program in 2009. Over the past five months, she has served as manager of racing operations for the National Steeplechase Association.

“It’s wonderful to welcome Jillian back to the Maryland Jockey Club,” said Sal Sinatra, President and General Manager of the Maryland Jockey Club. “Jillian has grown up around horses, understands and has great relationships with the horsemen, and will be a wonderful addition to Maryland Thoroughbred racing and the 1/ST Racing team.”