Baltimore, Md.. April 8.?Though the
racing at Bo We was spirited and pro
lific of several close finishes, the chief
topic at the track was the sudden resig
nation of Joseph P. Kennedy from the
State Racing Commission. Suggestion
that the right of licensing would be
taken over by the commission within a
very short time was revived, and there
was a general disposition to regard the
action as the first evidence of an im
pending split between the Marylanders
and the Jockey Club.
Mr. Kennedy stated in his resignation
that he had lately acquired business in
terests that would prevent him from de
voting sufficient time to racing, and
Stuart Oliver, chairman of the commis
sion, later put at rest the rumor that he
had lately suffered a change of opinion
and that he would advocate Jockey li
censing by the State.
Gov. Ritchie let it be known that he
would appoint Mr. Kennedy's successor
as soon as possible, and there was much
activity In the two political camps as
well as among the racing interests to
further the virtues of candidates they
advocate. E. Clay TImanue, the third
member of the commission, has repeat
edly advocated a complete divorce from
the Jockcy Club so far as licensing is
concerned, so that upon the opinions of
the new member the future harmony of
the local turf Is based.
Mr. Kennedy said he had hesitated to
resign, but finally decided to do so after
the passage of rules and regulations for
disbursement of race track profits
whioli he advocated. The rules have
brought forth much criticism from the
racing interests, who are forbidden un
der them to dispose of profits without
permission from the commission. It is
expected that Mr. Kennedy's successor
will be appointed to-night.
