Exciting Plans Unveiled for the 2026 Thoroughbred Racing Season at Sam Houston Race Park

Sam Houston Race Park to Launch 2026 Thoroughbred Season

Sam Houston Race Park is poised to embark on its 32nd live racing season, kicking off the excitement on January 2, 2026. This season will feature 21 stakes races with an impressive cumulative purse of $2 million, ensuring plenty of action over the 41-day Thoroughbred meet that will run until April 4, 2026.

As a commitment to supporting Texas horse racing, the park will highlight Texas-bred races during the opening weekend. Two key stakes races—$75,000 Darby's Daughter for 3-year-old fillies and $75,000 My Dandy Stakes for 3-year-old colts and geldings—are scheduled, marking the beginning of the Clarence Scharbauer Jr. Texas Stallion Stakes Series for that age group.

The Houston Racing Festival, an annual highlight, is planned for January 24 with a post time of 1:00 PM. On this day, five stakes races will take place, including the coveted $300,000 Houston Ladies Classic (G3) and the $200,000 John B. Connally Turf. Attendees can also look forward to the $100,000 Bob Bork Texas Turf Mile, $75,000 Bara Lass, and $75,000 Groovy Stakes.

Following the excitement of the Houston Racing Festival, Texas Preview Day will follow on February 14, featuring five stakes specifically for Texas-breds. This event serves as a crisp prelude to the prestigious Texas Champions Day on March 21, where an impressive lineup of seven stakes races awaits.

Bryan Pettigrew, Vice President and General Manager of Sam Houston Race Park, expressed his enthusiasm about the upcoming season, anticipating a blend of high-quality racing and exciting promotional events.

"We’re excited to welcome back our returning owners and equally thrilled to greet newcomers to our racing community," he stated. Live racing will occur every Friday at 6:30 PM and on Saturdays and Sundays at 1:00 PM (Central Time).

Racing Secretary Mike Acton also shared his eagerness to see a diverse lineup of competitors this year. Applications for stalls are due by October 31, with the barn area opening on December 1 and training commencing on December 3. Horsemen seeking detailed updates can enroll in the Sam Houston Race Park Text Message program by texting "Updates" to 833-735-1022.

This season's stakes schedule promises thrilling competitions, engaging promotions, and events tailored for families and horse racing fans, all made more enjoyable by the park's new rewards program, Penn Play, which offers enhanced benefits and amenities.

Sam Houston Race Park stands as a premier racing and entertainment destination, located a mere 15 miles northwest of downtown Houston. Since its opening in 1994, it has provided a variety of attractions, including high-quality dining options at the Winner's Circle Restaurant and casual to upscale dining areas.

To learn more about upcoming races, concerts, and events, visit Sam Houston Race Park's website. Stay informed and connected through their official social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube.