Sam Houston Race Park is #50!
I finally made it. After closing in on the big number the past few years, I finally attended my 50th thoroughbred racetrack for live racing. Just two days removed from my first ever visit to Sam Houston Race Park, I have to say that I could not be happier that I chose the Houston, Texas oval for the milestone. Besides seeing one of my favorite horses in training, Albano, win the evening's feature in scintillating fashion, I was treated to a memorable evening at a wonderful venue.
In case you have not been following my countdown in recent years, below is a list of all 50 tracks I've attended in the last 40+ years of being a huge fan of racing. You'll see that I have some pretty surprising omissions, that unfortunately include a few that I will never have the opportunity to attend. The good news is that most of the ones on my bucket list are still very much in action. 50 is only the beginning. Whether it be international must visits like Meydan, Ascot, and Longchamp, or many more hidden gems in the U.S., I promise you, this list will grow ...
Night racing did nothing to diminish the excellent paddock at Sam Houston. It is a roomy, comfortable, and picturesque place to saddle a horse.
With a relatively short season of live thoroughbred racing scheduled there, simulcasting is a major part of what Sam Houston is all about. After my visit on Saturday, I can attest that they do it right, and take very good care of their customers.
The big board at Sam Houston reveals the prices for a very low takeout track, and lights up a turf course and a main track that very well could be the safest in all America. I'm pleased to report that breakdowns are uncommon at Sam Houston.
Luxury dining options, and beatiful suites are a few more examples of Sam Houston taking excellent care of their patrons. The food passed the high Zipse standards with flying colors!
I think my wife Candice enjoyed the evening every bit as much as I did, all thanks to the hospitality of Mike Steindler, and all the wonerful folks at Sam Houston who made our evening one to remember.
I have to admit I was a bit embarrassed to see this sign upon entry into the facility, but I greatly appreciate the sentiment ... Thank you Sam Houston!