awards

Sam Thompson Memorial Award

The Sam Thompson Award honors a jockey who demonstrates exceptional dedication, professionalism, and integrity in the sport of Quarter Horse racing. Presented annually by Speedhorse Magazine in conjunction with the Jockeys’ Guild, the award recognizes riders whose conduct on and off the track reflects positively on the racing community.

Thompson, a native of North Carolina, was known for being one of the leaders in the jockeys’ room during his racing career. A Jockeys’ Guild senator and the room representative at Los Alamitos, Thompson was involved with Los Alamitos management during the expansion and renovation of the jockeys’ room at the Orange County track. He was also a council member of the Los Alamitos division of the Race Track Chaplaincy of America. On December 20, 2008, Thompson was injured when his mount, a first-time starter, fell after the wire during a 300-yard maiden race for two year olds. His condition had deteriorated significantly by Christmas Day and, with family and friends at his side, he was removed from life support so that his donated organs could save the lives of others. Thompson was 36 years old. 

Nominees are submitted by fellow jockeys, and the winner is selected through a peer vote, celebrating a rider who serves as a role model within the jockey colony and upholds the high standards exemplified by Sam Thompson throughout his career.

Sam Thompson is remembered for his dedication, integrity, and sportsmanship in Quarter Horse racing. The Sam Thompson Award honors jockeys who follow his example.

sam thompson Award Winners

Read more about the Sam Thompson award winners and the Sam Thompson Memorial Foundation.

Excellence, integrity, and sportsmanship in racing.

Celebrating careers that shaped Thoroughbred racing.

Honoring sportsmanship and dedication among jockeys.

Recognizing integrity and excellence in Quarter Horse jockeys.