Sam Houston Race Park has renewed its large-scale partnerships with Budweiser and Verizon Wireless, earning both companies the title of 2009 Platinum Partners.

As Platinum Partners, both companies are prominently featured across all avenues of The Park’s advertising and branding campaign, entitled “Let’s Make Things Interesting: Here’s To Racing,” which include print, outdoor, online, radio and television mediums. In addition, both companies have prominent representation at The Park with signage, named races, between race promotional opportunities and more.

“We are very fortunate to have such tremendous partners as Budweiser and Verizon Wireless. We all share the same vision, which is to offer our customers many diverse products and options. We also hope to be an integral part of our community in every avenue possible,” stated Wayne Hodes, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer and Senior Vice President, Sam Houston Race Park. “Sam Houston Race Park is committed to working with the best in the business with the goal of taking our product to the next level. We strive to set industry standards across all operations. We offer comprehensive sponsorship opportunities which aim to co-brand our racing and concert events in conjunction with our partners’ specific expertise.”

After many months of remodeling and construction, The Park will usher in the return of live racing and live music with an exciting Grand Re-Opening Weekend Celebration Friday, May 1 through Sunday, May 3. The weekend begins with live racing and fireworks on Friday, May 1, with the first 3,000 patrons through the gates receiving a Coca-Cola magnetic racing schedule for the season. The Park will also offer advance wagering for the Kentucky Derby.

On Saturday, May 2, The Park will debut “Value Days,” which will continue every Saturday throughout the summer. Value Day features a new 1 p.m. post time, extended race cards and the Verizon Wireless Summer Concert Series on the Bud Light Stage immediately following racing. The event also includes a variety of free giveaways featuring items from sponsors such Verizon Wireless, Budweiser, Spring Chrysler Jeep Dodge, L’Auberge du Lac, and Coushatta Casinos & Resorts, a misting area, interactive vendor booths and a variety of hot food off the grill, beers of the world, frozen margaritas and more!

The Park will also celebrate the 135th Running of the Kentucky Derby with all exciting simulcast action from Churchill Downs in conjunction with The Park’s live racing events. The day will also feature upscale dining, signature Mint Juleps and the annual Kentucky Derby Hat Contest where contestants compete for a $500 cash prize!

The party will continue immediately following live racing events with the Verizon Wireless Summer Concert series featuring legendary 80s rocker Joan Jett & The Blackhearts with special guests The Smithereens.

Standalone concert tickets for Joan Jett and other Saturday shows are $15 with children 12 and under FREE; concert patrons are admitted to The Park for live racing events the day of the show for FREE. All concerts are general admission and include a limited number of VIP options. General admission to The Park starts at $4; $2 for senior citizens and children 12 and under get in FREE everyday of the summer. Season tickets are also available.