TABA Newsletter - October 12, 2025

Texas Arabian Breeders Association

Official Newsletter

From the Desk of the President of TABA,Jon Henningsgard

Important Updates to the Texas Arabian Racing Calendar

The Texas Arabian Breeders Association (TABA) Board of Directors is pleased to share several key updates regarding Arabian racing in Texas. These decisions come after thoughtful planning and continued collaboration with our partners at Sam Houston Race Park and Lone Star Park.

2026 Racing Agreements Finalized

TABA is excited to confirm agreements with both Sam Houston Race Park and Lone Star Park for the 2026 racing season:

• Sam Houston Race Park (Houston, TX): Arabian races will again be conducted during the 2026 Thoroughbred meet.

• Lone Star Park (Grand Prairie, TX): Arabian races will be featured throughout the 2026 Thoroughbred meet, running from April through July (exact dates will be announced once the Thoroughbred schedule is finalized).

  
  

  These partnerships ensure Arabian racing remains firmly established at two of Texas’ premier racetracks. They also provide Arabian horsemen with access to a deeper pool of experienced jockeys and exercise riders, further strengthening the level of competition.

2025 Adjustments at Lone Star Park

After careful review, the Texas Arabian Juvenile Stakes races scheduled for 2025 at Lone Star Park will not be conducted.   However, The Texas Arabian Stallion Classic(G2) Stakes and the Texas Arabian Stallion Stakes(G2) for Fillies and Mares will be contested, and with a purse of $30,000 each.

Featured Stakes Races for 2026

Looking ahead, the 2026 Texas Arabian racing calendar will showcase an exciting lineup of stakes events at both Sam Houston Race Park and Lone Star Park:

• At Sam Houston Race Park (2026):

  • Texas Arabian Six-Shooter Stakes (T)

  • Texas Yellow Rose Arabian Stakes (T) for Fillies and Mares

• At Lone Star Park (Summer 2026):

  • The Texas Arabian Juvenile Sprint and Distaff Stakes 

  • Texas Arabian Oaks and Texas Arabian Derby

  • Texas Arabian Stallion Classic Stakes (G2)

  • Texas Arabian Stallion Stakes (G2) for Fillies and Mares

    
    

These refinements are designed to enhance competition, align Arabian races with the strongest wagering opportunities, and elevate their visibility during key Thoroughbred race days. Together, these steps will help generate greater public interest in owning, breeding, and racing Arabian horses in Texas.

Commitment to the Future

The Texas Arabian Breeders Association remains committed to the long-term growth and sustainability of Arabian racing. Through strategic adjustments, strengthened partnerships, and a focused stakes program, we are working to secure a vibrant and successful future for our sport.

We thank Sam Houston Race Park and Lone Star Park for their continued support and look forward to a dynamic 2026 racing season.

Sincerely, Jon Henningsgard

PresidentTexas Arabian Breeders Association