Exciting Schedule Unveiled for 2026 Thoroughbred Racing
2026 Thoroughbred Racing Season at Sam Houston Race Park
Sam Houston Race Park is gearing up for its thrilling 32nd live racing season, commencing on January 2, 2026. With 21 stakes races featuring an impressive total of $2 million in purses, the excitement is palpable as the meet runs through April 4, 2026.
Opening Weekend Highlights
The opening weekend promises action-packed racing with two notable stakes: the $75,000 Darby's Daughter for 3-year-old fillies and the $75,000 My Dandy Stakes for 3-year-old colts and geldings. These events will launch the prestigious Clarence Scharbauer Jr. Texas Stallion Stakes Series, presenting an unmissable opportunity for 3-year-olds.
Key Events Throughout the Season
The much-anticipated Houston Racing Festival is set for January 24, featuring a first post at 1:00 PM. Fans can thrill to five stakes races, including the highlighted $300,000 Houston Ladies Classic (G3) and the $200,000 John B. Connally Turf. Other races like the $100,000 Bob Bork Texas Turf Mile, along with the $75,000 Bara Lass and Groovy Stakes, will complete an exciting undercard.
Continuing the momentum, Texas Preview Day follows on February 14, highlighting stakes for Texas-breds. This day is crucial as it paves the way for Texas Champions Day, scheduled for March 21, comprising seven stakes races.
Expectations for a Successful Season
Bryan Pettigrew, the Vice President and General Manager, expresses enthusiasm for the season ahead, which will feature an array of quality racing, engaging promotions, and special events. The live racing schedule will take place on Fridays at 6:30 PM, and Saturdays and Sundays at 1:00 PM Central Time. Pettigrew emphasizes, "We're thrilled to kick off a new racing season designed to engage horseplayers of all experience levels. With exciting promotions and family-friendly events, this season promises to be one to remember. We're also introducing the new rewards program, Penn Play, which will provide exclusive benefits for our valued guests."
Mike Acton, the Racing Secretary, shared his excitement regarding returning owners and newcomers alike for this competitive season. Acton emphasized the importance of seeing new faces in the racing community and the anticipation of a strong season of thrilling Thoroughbred action.
Important Information for Horsemen
Stall applications for the upcoming Thoroughbred meet must be submitted by October 31. Horsemen can access applications through Sam Houston Race Park's official channels or by directly contacting Racing Secretary Mike Acton. The barn area will open on December 1, with training sessions starting December 3. The first condition book is expected in mid-October, and additional season details can be found on the Horsemen's Page.
For horsemen who wish to stay updated, a text message program will be available. Participants can text "Updates" to receive timely notícias about entry deadlines, race changes, and other critical information.
Complete 2026 Sam Houston Race Park Thoroughbred Stakes Schedule
Starting January 3, the schedule will feature several exciting races:
- Saturday, January 3: $75,000 Darby's Daughter, 3yo Fillies - 5.5 Furlongs
- Saturday, January 3: $75,000 My Dandy Stakes, 3yo Colts & Geldings - 5.5 Furlongs
- Saturday, January 24: $300,000 Houston Ladies Classic (G3) - 1 1/16 Mile
- Saturday, January 24: $200,000 John B. Connally Turf - 1 1/2 Mile
- Saturday, February 14: $75,000 Jim's Orbit, 3yo Colts & Geldings - 6 Furlongs
- Saturday, February 14: $75,000 Two Altazano, 3yo Fillies - 6 Furlongs
- Saturday, March 21: Texas Champions Day - featuring multiple stakes for Texas-breds
About Sam Houston Race Park
Sam Houston Race Park, owned by Penn Entertainment Inc. (NASDAQ: PENN), is Houston's premier racing and entertainment facility. With its opening in 1994, the venue offers a diverse array of attractions for group outings, families, and businesses, paired with award-winning dining options. Visitors are encouraged to explore upcoming live racing events, concerts, and more through Sam Houston Race Park's official site.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the start date for the 2026 racing season?
The 2026 racing season starts on January 2, 2026.
How many stakes races will take place during the meet?
There will be a total of 21 stakes races throughout the 41-day Thoroughbred meet.
What is the prize money for the stakes races?
The total purse for the stakes races is $2 million.
When is the Houston Racing Festival?
The Houston Racing Festival is scheduled for January 24, beginning at 1:00 PM.
Who can I contact for stall applications?
Horsemen can contact Racing Secretary Mike Acton for stall applications and additional information regarding the upcoming meet.
About The Author
Contact Hannah Lewis privately here. Or send an email with ATTN: Hannah Lewis as the subject to contact@investorshangout.com.
About Investors Hangout
Investors Hangout is a leading online stock forum for financial discussion and learning, offering a wide range of free tools and resources. It draws in traders of all levels, who exchange market knowledge, investigate trading tactics, and keep an eye on industry developments in real time. Featuring financial articles, stock message boards, quotes, charts, company profiles, and live news updates. Through cooperative learning and a wealth of informational resources, it helps users from novices creating their first portfolios to experts honing their techniques. Join Investors Hangout today: https://investorshangout.com/
The content of this article is based on factual, publicly available information and does not represent legal, financial, or investment advice. Investors Hangout does not offer financial advice, and the author is not a licensed financial advisor. Consult a qualified advisor before making any financial or investment decisions based on this article. This article should not be considered advice to purchase, sell, or hold any securities or other investments. If any of the material provided here is inaccurate, please contact us for corrections.
