Connect with us:
Connect with us:
March 18, 2025
The 150th running of the Preakness Stakes, just two months away, marks a significant milestone celebrated during Women’s History Month by highlighting the influential women who make this event extraordinary. Grey Matter Direct’s client, Audra Madison, Marketing Director of the Maryland Jockey Club, is one of these remarkable leaders.
Audra leads the marketing for the storied Maryland thoroughbred racetracks – Pimlico and Laurel Park. For Audra, the 150th Preakness Stakes represents the pinnacle of excitement and celebration.
In a recent interview on CBS News Baltimore, Audra described it as the “icing on the cake,” and emphasized its historical and festive significance. And, importantly during Women’s History Month, Audra highlights the increasing role women have taken in organizing and leading this prestigious event, highlighting her pride in working alongside talented women who collectively drive the event’s success.
The Preakness Stakes is more than just an iconic thoroughbred horse race; it is a cornerstone of American horse racing tradition, held annually as the second jewel of the coveted Triple Crown. Since its inception in 1873, the Preakness has not only captivated racing enthusiasts nationwide but has significantly contributed to Maryland’s cultural heritage and economic vitality, drawing tens of thousands of visitors each year to Baltimore’s historic Pimlico Racecourse.
As Audra explains, “The Preakness Stakes holds great importance not only as a prestigious sporting event but also as a vital tradition deeply rooted in Baltimore’s cultural and historical fabric. It attracts thousands of spectators and generates significant economic activity, benefiting the local community through tourism and job creation.”
Technology and storytelling have become crucial in modern sports, with Audra emphasizing their role at Pimlico and the Preakness Stakes. By leveraging email marketing, website content and social media marketing, Audra’s team captures the event’s essence—from the excitement of the races and the elegance of fashion to the vibrant atmosphere—making it accessible even to those unable to attend in person.
Inclusivity has also emerged as a key initiative, notably through Afro Preakness and the Black-Eyed Susan Stakes. In 2020, the Black-Eyed Susan Stakes was renamed the George E. Mitchell Stakes, honoring the late advocate who passionately championed the event’s connection to Baltimore. Audra has actively worked with Afro Preakness organizers to ensure that traditionally underrepresented communities, especially the African American and Park Heights communities, experience and celebrate the event’s cultural richness and sophistication. “It’s important that everyone feels welcome and empowered at the event,” she noted.
Additionally, Audra highlights efforts to extend the Preakness Stakes’ impact beyond the racetrack. Initiatives such as the Art of Racing contest aim to benefit the Park Heights community directly by transforming winning artwork into merchandise, providing a tangible revenue stream. “We’re committed to ensuring Park Heights benefits from these initiatives, aligning with broader revitalization efforts and the redevelopment of Pimlico,” Audra explained.
As The Maryland Jockey Club’s email marketing partner, Grey Matter Direct is proud to be working with Audra and her team in delivering communications about The Preakness and everything else happening at these historic tracks to their enthusiastic audience.
As anticipation builds toward this landmark 150th running of the Preakness Stakes, Audrey Madison invites everyone to join the celebration, don their fascinators and fashion, and share in this historic event.
To learn more about how Grey Matter Direct can help boost your email marketing or any other type of marketing, call us today at 856-465-6300.
