What does “horsemen” mean in thoroughbred racing?

In racing, “horsemen” is an umbrella term for the professionals and participants involved in training, caring for, and campaigning horses—often used to refer to trainers and backstretch teams, and sometimes broadly including owners and breeders depending on context.

What are horsemen’s facilities at a racetrack?

Horsemen’s facilities generally support day-to-day racing operations—think backstretch access, work areas, on-site services, and spaces used by licensed participants. The exact amenities vary by track.

Do owners count as horsemen?

Sometimes. Many racing conversations use “horsemen” to mean trainers and the backstretch community, while other contexts include owners and breeders. When in doubt, look at the specific organization or rulebook using the term.

Why should a racehorse owner care about horsemen’s groups?

Horsemen’s organizations and track services shape the practical experience of racing: access, licensing support, operational standards, and how the day-to-day flow works for getting a horse to the races.

Experience Racehorse Ownership!

Horsemen Privileges

Across NYRA’s flagship venues, licensed owners and horsemen receive:

Official NYRA credentials and lounge access
Priority parking and paddock access
Dedicated Horsemen’s Relations support
Dining and seating coordination
Access to private hospitality environments

Saratoga Race Course

Saratoga Race Course features the Carmen M. Barrera Horsemen’s Lounge, a dedicated gathering space for licensed owners and trainers located within the historic clubhouse.

Features:

Private lounge access for NYRA-licensed owners & horsemen
Comfortable indoor seating and social gathering areas
Beverage service throughout race days
Priority dining coordination and reserved seating support
Close proximity to paddock, finish line, and clubhouse dining
Concierge-style assistance through NYRA Horsemen’s Relations

This lounge serves as Saratoga’s central hospitality hub for horsemen — blending tradition, comfort, and premium race-day convenience.

The New Belmont Park (2026)

Next-Generation Owner & Horsemen Lounges

The new Belmont Park is being completely re-imagined as a world-class racing destination, featuring modern hospitality spaces, luxury lounges, and premium membership environments designed to serve owners, trainers, and elite guests.

Planned Amenities Include:

Climate-controlled luxury lounges overlooking the paddock and finish line
Box Seat Membership areas with reserved seating and year-round lounge access
Preferred parking and private entry access
Concierge and hospitality services on major race days
Priority access for championship racing and marquee events

While NYRA has not yet released final branding for Belmont’s dedicated horsemen lounge, the new facility is designed to deliver an elevated, club-style ownership experience on par with the world’s premier racing venues.

Horsemen Privileges

Saratoga Race Course

The New Belmont Park (2026)

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