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Olney Today
By the People, for the People
Charles Sniffen Named Maryland Backstretch Worker of the Year
Longtime assistant trainer honored for his dedication and support of the racing community
Feb. 4, 2026 at 11:39am
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The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association has named Charles Sniffen, assistant trainer for Ferris Allen, as the 2025 Backstretch Worker of the Year. Sniffen, a fifth-generation horseman, has worked in the industry for over 50 years and is known for his reliability, helpfulness, and support of the entire backstretch community at Laurel Park.
Why it matters
The Backstretch Worker of the Year award recognizes the unsung heroes of the racing industry - the grooms, hotwalkers, and other support staff who are essential to the day-to-day operations of a racetrack. Sniffen's selection highlights the important role these workers play and the dedication required to succeed in the backstretch environment.
The details
Sniffen got his training license in 1968 and has been assistant trainer for Ferris Allen for the past 20 years. He is known for assisting the backstretch population with personal matters, appointments, financial needs, and travel arrangements. Sniffen is a regular presence in the Laurel Recreation Room, where he socializes with the backstretch community.
- Sniffen began his training career racing at Charles Town Races and Shenandoah Downs in the late 1980s.
- He became assistant trainer for Ferris Allen in 2005, working at Delaware Park and Gulfstream Park for about 10 years.
- When Colonial Downs shut down in 2014, Allen brought Sniffen to Maryland, where he has primarily been based at Laurel Park.
The players
Charles Sniffen
A fifth-generation horseman who got his training license in 1968 and has been assistant trainer for Ferris Allen for the past 20 years.
Ferris Allen
The all-time leading trainer at the now-defunct Colonial Downs racetrack, who brought Sniffen to Maryland in 2014 to be his assistant trainer.
What they’re saying
“Charlie is an incredible member of our backstretch community. He is a top-notch assistant trainer, completely reliable van driver, and unwaveringly helpful and supportive with our entire staff as well as the entire backstretch community.”
— Ferris Allen, Trainer
“I get to have all the fun and don't have to pay the bills. It's a great experience working for Ferris. He's easy to work for. I also love working with the help. Even though I don't speak the language, we all get along really well.”
— Charles Sniffen
What’s next
The Renaissance Awards luncheon, where Sniffen will be honored as the 2025 Backstretch Worker of the Year, is scheduled for sometime this spring.
The takeaway
The Backstretch Worker of the Year award recognizes the unsung heroes of the racing industry, highlighting the dedication and support staff who are essential to the day-to-day operations of a racetrack. Sniffen's selection showcases the important role these workers play in the success of Maryland Thoroughbred racing.
