SAM HOUSTON  REINSTATES TWO STAKES RACES

July 2, 2009 - TQHA has provided additional purse money to Sam Houston Race Park allowing the track to re-instate two graded stakes races to the 2009 American Quarter Horse meet, which runs through August 29.

The money provided by the TQHA will allow Sam Houston to hold the Governors’ Cup Marathon (G3), an 870-yard race for horses ages 3 and up, on Friday, August 21; and the Sam Houston Classic (G2), a 440-yard race for horses ages 3 and up, on Saturday, August 22.

Sam Houston announced the elimination of three stakes races from the summer meet on June 25, in an effort to minimize the purse cut to the overnight races as well as noting the adverse affects of Hurricane Ike, which forced the cancellation of the 2008/2009 Thoroughbred meet.

“Losing any stakes races is extremely difficult and losing two graded stakes races was something the TQHA felt was not an option at this time,” said Rob Werstler, Executive Director, TQHA.  “Achieving graded stakes status is becoming increasingly difficult so we felt it was imperative to keep races like the Governors’ Cup Marathon and the Sam Houston Classic.  These are important races for the owners and breeders in Texas."

“We are very appreciative of the TQHA providing funds so we can move forward with both of these exciting graded stakes races for our summer meet,” stated Eric Johnston, Vice President of Racing, Sam Houston Race Park.  “The TQHA continues to work tirelessly to promote racing and our horsemen so we can keep racing alive and well in Texas.”

The meet will run through Saturday, August 29.