Houston, Texas- Racing fans in Houston were in for a treat on Saturday March 1 when Sam Houston Race Park invited them to be part of the festivities honoring the iconic Thoroughbred rider Stewart Elliott as he celebrated his 60th birthday.
 
One of the most respected jockeys in North America has won over 5,811 races since he began his career 44 years ago. He captured the 2004 Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes aboard Smarty Jones and has won the last four leading rider titles at Sam Houston Race Park, riding first call for Hall of Fame trainer Steve Asmussen, Mindy Willis and many other conditioners who respect his talent and experience with horses of all levels.
 
It was business as usual for Elliott, who was named on six mounts throughout the program, but took time after the third race to greet fans as they signed an oversized birthday card. His wife, Lilibeth, jockeys and trainers joined him in the winner's circle as he cut his birthday cake. Elliott knew about the festivities in advance, but racetrack organizers did keep two surprises from him: a framed proclamation from Houston Mayor John Whitmire citing March 1 as Stewart Elliott Day and a video, courtesy of NYRA from his son Christopher, who is having tremendous success in his first year as a professional jockey. Shot from the Aqueduct paddock, the 18-year-old apprentice wished his father a happy birthday saying "congrats on all your success; I wish you many more wins and many more birthdays. Thank you for your support!"
 
Elliott was touched by the outpouring of support and birthday wishes from his fellow riders, including Lindey Wade, who called Elliott an inspiration.
 
“I idolized him when I was growing up,” admitted Wade. “Stewart is always so cool, calm and collected! Riding next to him in Texas is pretty cool!”
 
Bryan Pettigrew, Sam Houston Race Park’s Vice President and General Manager acknowledged how much Elliott brings to the racing program. 
 
“We have enjoyed the professionalism of Stewart here at Sam Houston Race Park for the past four years.” said Pettigrew. “Not only is he an extremely talented athlete, but he is greatly respected by the entire jockey colony and very generous in his time with the entire staff and our fans. He is the leading rider, once again this year and we look forward to welcoming him back for many years to come!"
 
Always modest, Elliott enjoyed the festivities and addressed the crowd after blowing out his candles.
 
“I want to thank Sam Houston Race Park; this was very special!” said Elliott. “I have been fortunate to have stayed healthy throughout the years and still love what I do. To help riders here, Erik and Keith Asmussen and of course, my son Christopher succeed in our sport is something that means a great deal to me.” 
  
Texas Champions Day Set for Saturday, March 22
Sam Houston Race Park will present Texas Champions Day, a salute to Texas-bred racehorses in seven stakes races on Saturday, March 22, beginning at 1:00 pm.
 
$100,000 TTA Derby                                      3yo C&G- 1 Mile and 70 yards
$100,000 TTA Oaks                                       3yo F- 1 Mile and 70 yards
$75,000 Richard King                                    4yo &up- 1 1/8 Mile (T) 
$75,000 San Jacinto                                      4yo &up F&M- 1 1/16 Mile (T) 
$75,000 Spirit of Texas                                  4yo &up- 6 Furlongs 
$75,000 Yellow Rose Stakes                         4yo &up F&M- 6 furlongs 
$75,000 Star of Texas                                    4yo &up- 1 Mile
 
The 2025 Sam Houston Race Park Thoroughbred meet will conclude on Sunday, April 6. For a complete schedule of live and simulcast racing, visit shrp.com 

About Sam Houston Race Park
Sam Houston Race Park is Houston’s premier racing and entertainment facility, located just 15 miles northwest of downtown Houston. Owned by Penn Entertainment Inc. (NASDAQ – PENN), the racetrack, which opened in 1994, offers a variety of attractions for businesses, group outings and families during racing and the off-season. The track is best known for its award-winning dining and features multiple areas for fans looking for casual to upscale dining options including its Winner’s Circle Restaurant, Jockey Club, Luxury Suites and Pavilion Centre. For more information or tickets to upcoming live racing, concerts and events, please visit www.shrp.com or follow on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok or YouTube.

 
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Photos:  Jack Coady Photography