Sam Houston Race Park, whose Thoroughbred meet just started at the beginning of this month, is rolling out a new partnership with the Texas Thoroughbred Association (TTA) and The Paddock Foundation on Ring The Bell for Thoroughbred Aftercare, the track said in a release on Sunday.

Each live racing day, owners and trainers are invited to donate a portion of their purse winnings to The Paddock Foundation, the official aftercare program of the TTA. Fans can also get involved by filling out a form in the winner’s circle and handing it to track photographer Jack Coady. In recognition, they will receive a photo and be recognized on the big screen.

“There have been many very generous Texas Thoroughbred Association members who have supported Thoroughbred aftercare, and we are grateful for their support,” said TTA Executive Director Tracy Sheffield. “We felt that kicking off the Ring The Bell for Thoroughbred Aftercare program at Sam Houston Race Park would be a great way of introducing this important cause to a new audience.”

“It is important for every racetrack to enlighten their fans on the importance of caring for racehorses after they retire from the sport,” said Sam Houston’s Vice President and General Manager Bryan Pettigrew. “To acknowledge a donor with a picture in the winner’s circle by our photographer Jack Coady and show their generosity on our big screen television will be a thrill for them and a vehicle for encouraging more owners, trainers and fans to step up and donate!”

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This story was posted in Top News and tagged aftercare programs, Bryan Pettigrew, Horse Racing, Ring The Bell Program, Sam Houston Race Park, Texas Thoroughbred Association, thoroughbreds, Tracy Sheffield, TTA.