05/27/2026
This past Saturday, another unforgettable adventure and walk down memory lane took place as we granted our newest Elder Wish for one very excited and grateful resident.
This month’s Elder Wish was for Marvin H., a lifelong jockey, trainer, and owner with an incredible story and deep love for horse racing.
A little backstory on Marvin… He began his racing career in May of 1969 at Ross Downs in Colleyville, Texas. At just 13 years old and weighing barely 115 pounds, Marvin recalled racing his very first horse named “I’ll Bet,” which ended in a tie for the win! That moment marked the beginning of a remarkable 14-year racing career involving well over 1,400 thoroughbreds and averaging roughly 30 wins a year.
Marvin also endured hardships throughout his career, including a horrific racing accident in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where he broke his neck. After extensive rehabilitation, he was back in the saddle just six months later because, as he said, “I had to make a living.” At times, Marvin carried three roles at once — owner, trainer, and rider.
Alongside his racing career, Marvin also maintained a loving family life and enjoyed sharing his creative gift for sketching and drawing. His heart for horses remained strong throughout the years, and in 2016, due to heart-related health concerns, he made the difficult decision to retire completely.
Jim and JJ truly enjoyed witnessing Marvin’s excitement during this special outing to Lone Star Park as he carefully studied the racing program like the professional he has always been and watched the races from Silks. He enjoyed a delicious buffet and was even reunited with longtime acquaintances from his racing days.
This day was all about bringing back treasured memories and rekindling a chapter of life that meant so much to him.
Another successful and memorable Elder Wish granted here at Springtown Park is officially in the books.