HOUSTON – Sam Houston Race Park is more than just a venue for thrilling horse races; it’s a bustling community dedicated to the care and training of its equine athletes. Behind the scenes, a dedicated team works tirelessly to ensure the smooth running of the park and the well-being of its equine stars. Recently, Houston Life’s Melanie Camp took a behind the scenes with Guy Smith, a retired jockey and current Horseman Relations Manager at Sam Houston Race Park.
Smith introduced viewers to Sunlit Song, the 2023 Texas-bred horse of the year, describing the horse as a testament to the quality of horses at the park. The park hosts over a thousand horses during the racing season, and the behind-the-scenes operations are a hive of activity.
The day starts early at Sam Houston Race Park. “A lot of the grooms and trainers get here around five, even earlier than that,” Smith explained. “They feed before they train, and that has to be done every day, seven days a week.” Horse care is 24/7 with grooms living in small studios above the horse feed storage, available for the horses’ needs at any time. An on-call vet and horse dentist is available any time of day or night.
Smith, who rode as a jockey for 13 years and won nearly 1,400 races, shared his passion for the sport despite the risks involved. “I wouldn’t have traded it for anything in the world,” he said, recounting his career-ending accident at Evangeline Downs, where he broke his neck and paralyzed his left hand in a tragic, career-ending fall. Despite the dangers, Smith emphasized the love and passion that drive both jockeys and horses, likening it to other high-risk sports.
“It’s a sport that people love and it’s gotten safer over the years....I’m just thankful to see all the safety precautions that are being taken. And it’s helped,” Smith said.
The 31st season of live thoroughbred racing at Sam Houston Race Park kicked off January 3, 2025, delivering an exciting lineup of events and entertainment. Racing enthusiasts can enjoy races Friday through Sunday, featuring 22 stakes with purses amounting to $2.2 million over the 42-day meet.
Opening Night is set to be a memorable experience with live music from The Slags, performing from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. The park offers a vibrant atmosphere with Big Beer Fridays and College Nights, and live music each Friday, providing a perfect blend of racing excitement and entertainment.
Visitors can enjoy live betting experiences, custom cocktails, and a full season of engaging programming. For those seeking an elevated experience, private suites, and the exclusive Winners Circle, and Jockey Club offer a unique way to enjoy the races.
Whether you’re a seasoned racing fan or new to the sport, Sam Houston Race Park offers something for everyone this season.
For those interested in visiting, tickets can be purchased in advance at shrp.com or by calling (281) 807-8700. Whether you’re a horse enthusiast or just looking for a unique day out, Sam Houston Race Park offers a glimpse into horse racing, both on and off the track.