Most people recognize the prestige of races like this weekend’s Kentucky Derby, where grandstands are packed and the spotlight shines on the sport’s biggest stage. But across North America, beyond the marquee events, there are community racetracks where horsemen and horsewomen build their livelihoods. These smaller “B” racetrack circuits might not make the headlines as often, but they matter just as much, built on hard work, tradition, and a real love for Thoroughbred racing. That spirit comes to life in Alberta as the Alberta Community Thoroughbred Racing Association (ACTRA) kicks off its 2026 season on Saturday, May 2, at the Rocky Mountain Turf Club (RMTC) in Lethbridge.
A long-standing fixture in southern Alberta, the Rocky Mountain Turf Club has been a cornerstone of the province’s racing community since 1996. Under the leadership of CEO Max Gibb, who has been a driving force since its inception, the track has grown into a vital hub for horsemen and horsewomen across the community racing circuit.
The 2025 RMTC season leader, the barn of trainer Colton Mead, is once again poised to contend for the top spot in 2026. The barn’s recent success has been bolstered by the support of dedicated owner Brady Schultz of Raymond, Alberta.
Schultz got his start in the sport through friends involved in horse racing, initially seeing it as a fun way to spend his weekends. He quickly learned that racing demands significant time and effort if you want to be involved beyond simply having your name listed as owner on a horse.
“I somewhat quickly got involved. I found a good deal on two horses at Assiniboine Downs as their racing season ended and ours had a few weekends left. The main reason I’m involved in the Alberta Community Circuit is I have a business to run here in Lethbridge and I want to be a part of the barn whenever I can. The two horses we originally bought out of Winnipeg both won. That’ll get you hooked on horse racing straight away!”
Schultz and Mead teamed up four years ago, connecting through mutual friends. This year when asked about the barn power, Schultz was a bit sheepish with a number, “That’s a number I don’t need my wife knowing!” he laughed, “I think around 18 horses that I am a various share owner of. We had a very good year last year and it’s easy to see the potential of investing in some more quality horses.”
Investment has been made more accessible through the Alberta Community Thoroughbred Racing Association (ACTRA) Racehorse Procurement Incentive Program (RPIP) and Shipping Incentive Program, funded by Horse Racing Alberta. For Brady Schultz, those programs have been a key factor in getting involved.
“These programs played a large part in my investment. I don’t have the funds to play with like some may think,” Schultz said. “The biggest thing is taking advantage and utilizing the incentive programs to obtain a horse for a much more affordable price point than everyone else seems to be doing.”
That approach has already paid off.
“We’ve gotten horses for very reasonable prices, half of which is paid by the purchase incentive and shipping incentive and have gone on to win multiple races with them,” he added. “That’s just smart!”
With spring training underway at Rocky Mountain Turf Club and Opening Day approaching, training and race days in Lethbridge are busy and hands-on for owners like Brady Schultz.
“I usually bring snacks and drinks for the barn. Coffees and breakfast to start the day, then water, Gatorade, and something to eat as things get busy,” he said. “I’m often helping with my horses in the paddock, cooling them out in the test barn, or around the facility, going back and forth with a full race lineup.”
For Schultz, the most rewarding moments come from sharing the experience.
“Winning with multiple horses alongside friends I convinced to get involved and have some fun has been my proudest moment so far,” he said.
Looking ahead, he plans to stay involved in a way that fits around a busy schedule. Schultz is also giving back to the sport, volunteering his time and talents as a Board of Directors member with the Alberta Community Thoroughbred Racing Association
“I plan on continuing as a hands-on owner,” he said. “Work comes first, but I still make time to help out where I can, whether that’s getting hay, feed, oats, shavings, or whatever else is needed.”
At its heart, the Alberta Community Thoroughbred Racing Association represents more than racing. It reflects the history of horse racing in Alberta’s agricultural communities and the people who sustain them. Race days are a gathering place, where the hard work and fun are shared and traditions are carried forward. It’s a reminder that the spirit of Thoroughbred racing isn’t just found on the biggest stages, but in the communities that live it every day.
The Alberta community racing circuit continues to build momentum throughout the summer, beginning at Rocky Mountain Turf Club through June 28 for the spring meet, before heading to Millarville Racetrack on July 1. Racing then moves north to Evergreen Park in Grande Prairie from July 5 through August 23, before returning to Rocky Mountain Turf Club for the fall dates running September 5 through October 12.
