Aurora, CO – In 1995, the Arabian Horse Trust began an honorary program that recognized great Arabian racehorses (Racing Hall of Fame) and leadership individuals within the sport of Arabian racing (Tent of Honor). In 2008, all voting privileges and decisions were transferred by the Arabian Horse Trust to the Arabian Jockey Club (AJC), and have remained under the AJC’s domain ever since. With respect to great achievement superceding all criteria, inductees are chosen only when individuals and horses are found to be worthy of the honor. As such, this award is not awarded annually. In fact, this year’s inductees represent only the 14th induction into the prestigious program.
In order for a horse to be considered into the Racing Hall of Fame, it must meet criteria within the following mission statement: “The horse shall have made a significant contribution to Arabian racing in the United States through the horse’s own performance and the performance of its progeny.” Additionally, the following gender criteria must be met:
Mares will have had to race for 3 years with at least 3 Stakes wins, foaled at least 3 Stakes winners, and be retired from racing for 5 years.
Stallions will have had to race for 3 years with at least 3 Stakes wins, foaled at least 5 Stakes winners, and be retired from racing for at least 5 years.
Geldings could be considered for inclusion into the Racing Hall of Fame providing the gelding was of superior race performance over an extended period of time, and have “star” recognition.
Here are the two 2017 Racing Hall of Fame Inductees:
1. TH RICHIE
Breeder: William J. Shively
Raced by: Dianne K. Waldron
Present Owner: Sheikha Alyazia Bint Sultan Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan
2.) WIBWILCCA
Breeder: Teisen Auto Co Ltd.
Raced by: Daniel or Claudia Spears
Present Owner: Jon Henningsgard
Here are the two 2017 Tent of Honor Inductees
1.) KATHY SMOKE (Britton, MI)
Contributions to Arabian Racing: Breeder, Owner, President, Arabian Jockey Club, Chair, Arabian Racing Commission; Pioneered Arabian Racing in Michigan, also contributed to Arabian Racing Internationally by her work with the International Federation of Arabian Horse Racing.
2.) JANE TEUTSCH (Hempstead, TX)
Contributions to Arabian Racing: Breeder, Owner, Pioneered Arabian Racing in Colorado, Breeder of multiple Stakes Winners, including Darley Awards Horse of the Year, Paddy’s Day
The Arabian Jockey Club congratulates all four inductees on this prestigious award, and thanks them for their tremendous contributions to the sport of Arabian racing.
