Brook Smith: Passion for Horse Racing & Philanthropy
Back in 2022, I had the incredible opportunity to meet and collaborate with Brook T. Smith in Louisville’s vibrant Butchertown neighborhood. Our meet up took place at The Butcher Rose, where over a few glasses of bourbon, we delved into his philanthropic vision, entrepreneurial drive, and his enthusiasm for horse racing through his venture, Rocket Ship Racing. It was an inspiring experience that left a lasting impression on me — one I certainly won’t forget.
I’ll definitely be watching the Kentucky Derby, eagerly hoping that Sierra Leone and Rocket Ship Racing not only shock the world but also herald a revolutionary era in horse racing ownership!
Brook T. Smith: Winning on the Track and Giving Back in Louisville
Brook T. Smith’s journey into the heart of horse racing began unexpectedly in his 30s during a visit to the Derby Day festivities in 1995. A casual outing with a former roommate quickly turned into a pivotal life moment when Smith found himself trackside, cheering on Laura’s Pistolette, a 30–1 long shot in the Humana Distaff Stakes. The thrill of the win by a mere nose captured his imagination and set him on a new path.
From that day, Smith was hooked on horse racing, but not just as a spectator. He ventured into the ownership side of the sport, eventually acquiring a 16% share in Sierra Leone, a colt trained by Chad Brown and a top contender in the 150th Kentucky Derby. Under his Rocket Ship Racing banner, Smith has expanded his involvement, but his interest in horse racing transcends mere ownership.
Raised in Westport, Oldham County, without the luxuries many take for granted, such as cable television, Smith’s humble beginnings included simple joys like catching crawfish and enjoying Chef Boyardee pizza nights. These early experiences shaped his philanthropic outlook, particularly towards those behind the scenes of the racing industry.
Smith’s concern for the underfunded Backside Learning Center at Churchill Downs, which supports track workers and their families, spurred him into action. His initiative, Purses For a Purpose, launched in 2020, encourages owners to donate a percentage of their winnings to enhance the center’s budget. Smith himself contributes 10% of his winnings, significantly higher than the requested 1%.
Read the full article on Pints, Forks & Friends
Originally published at https://pintsforksfriends.com on May 2, 2024.
