In the vibrant world of sports, few narratives capture the intersection of passion, community, and ambition quite like that of Lamar Jackson. The Baltimore Ravens quarterback, known for his electrifying play on the field, has recently embarked on an equally ambitious venture as the owner of the Maryland Colts, a franchise in the National Thoroughbred League (NTL). For Jackson, the stakes are high—not just in terms of championships, but in his commitment to uplifting the community of Baltimore.
Jackson’s dual aspirations are clear. “I just want to win a championship,” he stated, reflecting not just an athlete’s drive for glory in the NFL but also a vision for success in horse racing. His acquisition of the Maryland Colts in 2024 was strategic, tying the franchise to a city with a rich sports heritage, including a past Super Bowl-winning NFL team bearing the Colts name. The NTL introduces a fresh approach to horse racing, where teams accumulate points based on the performance of their horses and jockeys, mirroring the competitive structure of motor sports. This innovative model aims to attract a new generation of fans who may not have previously engaged with the sport.
Jackson’s involvement in the NTL aligns him with a growing trend among professional athletes, particularly quarterbacks, seeking ownership stakes in sports teams. Icons like Tom Brady and Peyton Manning have paved the way, with Brady as a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders and Manning holding a stake in the Memphis Grizzlies. Current NFL star Patrick Mahomes has diversified his portfolio with investments in baseball, soccer, and even pickleball, showcasing a broader trend of athletes leveraging their success to create lasting legacies off the field.
However, for Jackson, this venture goes beyond personal ambition. He is deeply invested in the socio-economic fabric of his community. “When we are looking to invest, it has to be something meaningful,” he remarked, emphasizing his desire to create long-term opportunities for young people in Baltimore. This commitment was evident during the NTL’s 2025 season kickoff at Pimlico Race Course, where Jackson hosted a community day, inviting youth to learn about horse racing and potential careers in the industry. “Giving back to the underprivileged is a no-brainer for me,” he said, recognizing the role that athletes can play as role models and sources of inspiration.
Jackson’s love for horses has roots in his childhood in Cypress, Florida, where he grew up surrounded by the horse racing culture. “I was always intrigued with horses,” he recalled, drawing a connection between his early interests and his current endeavors. This passion not only fuels his involvement with the Colts but also aligns with ongoing efforts to modernize the horse racing industry as a whole. Major racetracks, including Churchill Downs, Pimlico, and Belmont Park, are investing hundreds of millions in renovations aimed at attracting new audiences and enhancing the spectator experience.
As the Colts prepared for their inaugural season, placing third in their opening race weekend, Jackson’s vision appeared to be taking shape. His focus on community engagement and creating pathways for youth resonates especially in a city with a complex socio-economic landscape. By merging his athletic prowess with entrepreneurial spirit, Jackson is not only chasing championships but also fostering hope and opportunity in Baltimore.
In a world where professional sports often seem removed from the everyday lives of fans, Lamar Jackson stands out as a figure committed to bridging that gap. His journey illustrates how athletes can leverage their platforms for greater good, reinforcing the notion that success is not solely measured in wins and losses, but also in the impact one has on their community. As he continues to navigate this dual career, Jackson exemplifies a modern athlete’s role as both competitor and community leader, reminding us that the heart of sports extends far beyond the confines of the playing field.
