(January 22, 2008) - The $100,000 MAXXAM Gold Cup, Sam Houston Race Park’s signature racing and social event of the Thoroughbred season, will take place on Saturday, January 26, 2008. The premier day of racing features 10 thrilling races showcasing the country’s older and most elite horses. Racing highlights for the evening will be two prestigious stakes races, the $100,000 MAXXAM Gold Cup and the $50,000 Sam Houston Distaff, which will showcase some of the top Thoroughbred race horses in the nation.

The night will also include fantastic dining options from Executive Chef Francis T. Walters at the Grande Buffet and the Jockey Club, as well as special Counter Seat dining packages. In addition, racing fans will be treated to a pre-race handicapping seminar with Park announcer Michael Chamberlain, Martha Claussen of the Houston Chronicle and Denis Blake of Texas Thoroughbred Magazine. Other activities include a live bugler at the winner’s circle, a first-time fan education seminar with Martha Claussen of the Houston Chronicle, a $1,750 online handicapping contest to make win, place and show selections, between race promotions featuring Sam’s Lucky Horseshoe, T-shirt Toss, Racing Trivia Contest and the YMCA Tractor Driver Show, plus appearances from Park mascot Sam the Horse, and more!

Ticket packages start at $19 per person and include reserved seating for racing, racing program, racing tip sheet, commemorative ball cap, entrée and a beverage. The event is sponsored by Woodford Reserve. For more information call (281) 807-8760 or visit www.shrp.com.

Sam Houston Race Park is Houston’s premier racing and entertainment facility offering a variety of attractions including 19 luxury suites overlooking the track, The Pavilion Centre, and award-winning dining options at the Winner’s Circle Restaurant and Jockey Club. For more information, please visit www.shrp.com.