As Thoroughbred racing enters a brand new 12 months, it faces the inevitable problem of studying from the previous 12 months and making use of these classes to the long run.
With 2026 simply across the nook, BloodHorse has as soon as once more carried out an internet year-end survey, asking a number of the greatest names within the horse racing trade to weigh in on related points dealing with horse racing.
By way of January 2nd, a choose group of panelists will tackle points similar to probably the most thrilling freshman stallions of 2026, observe measurement, fastened odds betting, foal crop measurement, Breeders’ Cup, Triple Crown and extra. In the present day we proceed this collection with questions on selling the game to new followers.
We all know there are numerous different voices, however we hope these solutions will spark significant dialogue inside the trade.
If you want to share your opinion, we encourage you to submit it in writing to editorial@bloodhorse.com for publication in BloodHorse Letters to the Editor. Longer articles will be thought of as trade voice columns.
To entry the 2023 year-end survey, click on the hyperlink beneath for a PDF model.
Solutions have been edited for type and readability.
Query: Once you introduce somebody to the game for the primary time, what do they get pleasure from most about racing?
Acacia Courtney Clement, NYRA TV Analyst: For me, it is all the time concerning the horse before everything. For individuals who did not develop up surrounded by horses and equestrianism, a go to to the backstretch is usually a actual eye-opener. Getting up near the animals, watching them prepare and see their stalls is a extra private expertise. Moreover, these visits enable individuals to see how rigorously the equine athletes are cared for and the care offered by the trainers, secure employees, scorching walkers, and everybody concerned on the secure. There have been many mornings at Oklahoma’s coaching observe in Saratoga the place I’ve seen somebody fall in love with the horses and the competitors.
In comparison with different massive sports activities, horse racing provides unbelievable entry for trade insiders in addition to followers. There are such a lot of nice tales woven into the historical past of this recreation, and that is one among my favourite issues about my job. It is not simply the horse backgrounds that give us thrills, however there’s additionally the human factor, together with the journey of a jockey overcoming adversity, a breeder carrying on a household legacy, and a reincarnated coach. I actually imagine that horse racing has one thing for everybody.
Griffin Johnson, social media influencer and proprietor: After I introduce somebody to a race for the primary time, the very first thing I discuss is the sensation. As a result of there’s nothing else that may match it. The anticipation as you enter the paddock, the adrenaline as you watch the horses step into the sector and the gates open. It is a mixture of sport, competitors, custom and pure emotion. However past the race itself, what I like most is the group. Racing brings collectively individuals from fully completely different backgrounds who share the identical ardour. When you expertise it, you may’t assist however fall in love with the game.
Mike Smith, Corridor of Fame jockey: It would most likely begin with horses after which sports activities will come. When you see these wonderful animals and so they get into your blood, you will by no means be capable to get out. they’re unbelievable. The largest creature I’ve ever seen.
The sports activities half can be actually nice. That is simply as thrilling as a minute and a half or two minute occasion. I discuss to a variety of skilled athletes, whether or not they’re within the NFL, MLB, NHL or NBA, and as soon as they get a style of horse racing, they’re hooked. Whether or not you personal a horse or wager $2 on it, there is no higher feeling on this planet than when that horse crosses the wire for the primary time.
Nick Tammaro, observe announcer and handicapper at Sam Houston Race Park and participant growth supervisor at Sam Houston and Retama Park: The overwhelming majesty of a racehorse. Horses are great animals which are born to run and battle with all the things they’ve. It is a privilege to observe them carry out at any stage, displaying athleticism that you simply most likely will not see in every other sport. I like the puzzle of handicap racing and the problem of betting to win. I will always remember that I’ve but to take somebody to a racetrack who did not have a good time.
