NTRA Charities, which is a subsidiary of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, plans to donate $5,000 to the Penn National Gaming Foundation for the Sam Houston Race Park employees impacted by Hurricane Harvey, the organization announced Wednesday. The storm that hit Rockport, Texas, brought catatrophic flooding to Sam Houston in Houston, which is co-owned by Penn National Gaming.
“We’ve all seen the devastating images coming out of South Texas,” NTRA President & CEO Alex Waldrop said in a release. “The region is hurting, including individuals and their families directly tied to Sam Houston Race Park. We are pleased to contribute funds to support these families in their time of need and applaud so many other horse industry groups making similar contributions across the region.”
Sam Houston avoided serious damage in the storm and has been housing displaced horses, according to Sam Houston president Andrea Young. The track also has been working to assist employees impacted by the flooding in Houston. There is no racing at Sam Houston until January.
“We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of NTRA charities,” Young said in a release. “There are so many people in the Greater Houston area that have been impacted by Hurricane Harvey and it is comforting for our employees to see the support of the racing community during this difficult time. This gift will go directly to our employees who have been most impacted. The road to recovery is just beginning and this wonderful gesture will help that recovery start today.”