The first full week of 2026 on the North American racing calendar is comparatively light in terms of high-profile graded stakes, and the reshuffling of several racedays at Santa Anita Park due to heavy rainfall and flooding in the area has altered the schedule.
Tag: Lifestyle
A Beginner’s Guide to the Horse-Racing Phenomenon ‘Umamsume: Pretty Derby’
American racetracks have for decades dealt with the challenge of how to attract new fans. They have been extremely creative developing VIP experiences, boutique meets, and specialized fan days and events involving concerts, fashion, and themed experiences. There is now a cultural phenomenon in Japan involving gaming, live music concerts, manga, and anime that is bringing thousands of new young fans into the sport.
BloodHorse On the Rise: A Family Affair for Elijah Arroyo
As the son of a jockey-turned-jockey’s agent, Elijah Arroyo moved around quite a bit while growing up, typical for a family working in Thoroughbred racing. When the now 26-year-old began working on the racetrack as a teenager, his first job was in the barn of prominent Southern California-based trainer John Sadler.
Remembering ‘The Coach’: The Late D. Wayne Lukas Touched Many Lives in Horse Racing and Beyond
At the end of the year, it is typical to remember those we have lost. This was a difficult year in horse racing with the loss of legendary Hall of Fame trainer D. Wayne Lukas (Sept. 2,1935 – June 28, 2025). He was iconic in so many facets of horse racing and such a character who lived unapologetically with such style.
