With 2026 just around the corner, BloodHorse has repeated its year-end online survey to ask some of the sport’s leading figures for their views on relevant issues facing horse racing.
Through January 2, a select group of panelists will discuss issues such as the hottest freshman sire for 2026, field size, fixed-odds betting, foal crop size, the Breeders’ Cup and the Triple Crown. We continue the series today with a question about promoting the sport to new fans.
While we realize there are countless other voices, we hope these answers will spark meaningful discussion within the industry.
Anyone wishing to share their views is encouraged to submit them in writing to Editorial@bloodhorse.com for inclusion in BloodHorse’s letters to the editor. Longer pieces may be considered for an Industry Voices column.
To access the 2023 year-end survey, click on the following link for a pdf version.
Responses have been edited for style and clarity.
Q: When you introduce someone new to the sport, what are the things you tell that person you like most about racing?
Acacia Courtney Clement, NYRA TV Analyst: For me it will always be about the horse first and foremost. If you didn’t have the pleasure of growing up with horses or riding, a visit to the backstretch can be a real eye-opener. Getting up close to the animals and seeing them training or in their stalls makes it a much more personal experience. Additionally, during these visits, people can see how carefully equestrians are cared for and the care provided by the trainer, groom, hot walker and everyone involved with the stable. There have been many mornings at the Oklahoma Training Track in Saratoga where I have witnessed someone fall in love with the horses and the game.
Compared to other major sports, horse racing offers great access for people in the industry and even just fans. There are so many incredible stories woven into the history of this game, and it’s one of my favorite things about my job. There are the backgrounds of the horses that give us such excitement, but also the human element, whether it is the journey of a training rider who has overcome adversity, a breeder continuing a family legacy, or a trainer who has had a resurgent season. I truly believe that horse racing has something for everyone.
Griffin Johnsonsocial media influencer and owner: When I introduce someone to racing for the first time, the first thing I talk about is the feeling, because nothing else really compares to it. The anticipation of walking into the paddock, seeing a horse you’re connected to step onto the track, the adrenaline as the gates open. It is a mix of sport, competition, tradition and pure emotion. But outside of the race itself, what I love most is the community. Racing brings together people from completely different backgrounds who all share the same passion. Once you experience that, even just once, it’s hard not to fall in love with the sport.
Mike Smith, Hall of Fame jockey: It probably starts with the horses and then comes the sport. Once you see these amazing animals and they get into your blood, you can never get them out. They are incredible. The largest creature I have ever seen.
The sports part of it is so great too. It’s as exciting as a one and a half or two minute event than ever before. I talk to a lot of professional athletes, whether they’re in the NFL or MLB, NHL or NBA, and once they get a taste of horse racing, they’re hooked. Whether you own the horse or have a $2 bet on it, once that horse crosses the wire first, there is no comparable feeling in the world.
Nick Tammarotrack announcer and handicapper at Sam Houston Race Park and player development manager at Sam Houston and Retama Park: The pure majesty of the racehorse. Horses are amazing animals that risk everything because they were born to run. It is a privilege to see them perform at any level and shows athleticism not seen in any other sport. I love the puzzle of handicap racing and the difficulty of placing winning bets. I never fail to mention that I’ve taken someone to the track who didn’t have a great time.
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