American Quarter Horse racing is known for its explosive starts and thrilling photo finishes. The 2005 Sam Houston Race Park Quarter Horse meet will kick off Friday, June 24 and is filled with exciting racing action and a weekend full of special events.
Sam Houston Race Park is pleased to announce a new daytime racing schedule for Sundays. Live racing will begin at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 26 and continue each Sunday through September 11. The only exception will be on Sunday, July 3 when racing will begin at 5:00 p.m. to be followed by the first of two July 4 Fireworks Extravaganzas. The northwest Houston racetrack will host a special Fourth of July racing program and fireworks display on Monday, July 4, also at 5:00 p.m.

The activities for opening weekend are as follows:

Friday, June 24 - Opening Night, Biker Night & Bud Light Texas Music Explosion

5:30 p.m. - Gates open

Biker Night - Sam Houston Race Park will host its first Biker Night. The Pavilion Centre will be the rally site for bikers with vendors, contests and entertainment. Prizes will be awarded for Best Bike and Best Tattoo.

7:00 p.m. - First of ten live American Quarter Horse races including the running of the $10,000 Stephen F. Austin Stakes and trials for the MBNA Texas Challenge Championship.

10:30 p.m. - Jerry Jeff Walker, singer/songwriter, who has been described as one of America's musical landmarks, will kick off the Bud Light Texas Music Explosion. Walker hitchhiked his way to Austin, Texas in 1971 and quickly became an Austin favorite. Walker has released many albums and has had such hits as "Sangria Wine," "Mr. Bojangles," "How Long Has This Been Going On," and "Sangria Wine."

Saturday, June 25 - Quarter Night

5:30 p.m. Gates open

7:00 p.m. First of ten live Quarter Horse races, including trials for the TQHA Sale Futurity. Admission for all patrons over the
age of 12 will only be a quarter and those 12 and under will be admitted free as always.

Sunday, June 26 - Dollar Hot Dogs

10:30 a.m. Gates Open

1:30 p.m. Special 1:30 p.m. post time and ten live Quarter Horse races including the running of the $10,000 Harris County Stakes.

For seating reservations, suites for private parties or dinner reservations in the Winner's Circle Restaurant, please call (281) 807-8760. To book a group of 10 or more, call (281) 807-8750.