The NTRA Board of Directors recently approved a staff recommendation to forgo holding the “Great State Challenge” in 2003, due to timing factors, with direction to the staff to explore potential alternatives for renewal of the event in 2004, based on pending sponsorship discussions.

The inaugural “Great State Challenge,” an event which pitted top horses representing several states in a championship-style event, was held at Sam Houston Race Park. While the event was considered a success, finding sponsorship for the event in 2003 proved to be a challenge.

Sam Houston Race Park has expressed interest in having the “Great State Challenge” return to Houston if the event is renewed in 2004.