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Rocket Ship Racing (RSR) was founded in the spring of 2021 by Louisville businessman and philanthropist Brook T. Smith, formalizing his long-standing passion for thoroughbred racing.
Inspired by the thrilling victories and the deep-rooted traditions of the sport, Brook established RSR to embody the spirit of “aiming for the moon and the stars” – hence the name Rocket Ship Racing.
At Rocket Ship Racing, our mission extends beyond securing victories.
We are dedicated to cherishing every moment of the racing experience, prioritizing the well-being of our horses and the people who care for them. Our vision is to cultivate a racing community that thrives on mutual respect, love for the sport, and a shared journey toward excellence. We aim to create lasting memories and foster deep connections within the racing world.
The health and safety of our horses are at the core of Rocket Ship Racing.
Our commitment to humane care is evident in the meticulous daily routines within our stable. Each horse is treated as a unique individual, and we take immense pride in understanding and nurturing their personalities. Collaborating closely with skilled trainers, farriers, and veterinarians, we ensure our horses receive the best possible care. This holistic approach ensures that our horses are not only athletes but cherished members of the RSR family.
Giving back to the community is a core value at Rocket Ship Racing.
Our proudest partnership is with the Backside Learning Center (BLC) at Churchill Downs.
The “backside” of Churchill Downs, like the backside of any major racetrack, is a vital area where much of the behind-the-scenes work of horse racing takes place. It includes stables, barns, training facilities, and housing for many of the workers who care for the horses.
Through the “Purses for a Purpose” program, Rocket Ship Racing and the Backside Learning Center have crafted a way for owners to donate a percentage of their horses’ winnings to support the BLC’s valuable services for the Churchill Downs backside community. This initiative has led to enhanced programming and the potential for new facilities, reflecting our belief in the importance of supporting the backbone of the racing industry.
Leadership Dedicated to Excellence and Community
Brook’s journey into horse racing began unexpectedly during a Derby Day visit in 1995. A chance experience with a friend, whose father owned part of a filly who won a stake race at long odds sparked a lifelong passion that evolved from spectator to owner. Raised in rural Westport, Kentucky, Brook’s humble beginnings instilled in him a profound sense of community and philanthropy. Under his leadership, Rocket Ship Racing has forged significant partnerships and achieved remarkable success while maintaining a strong focus on giving back to the racing community.
As the Racing Manager of Rocket Ship Racing, Bill Denzik brings extensive experience and a deep love for horses to the team. Responsible for the day-to-day operations of the stable, Bill works closely with trainers to ensure the welfare and peak performance of each horse. His strategic oversight and attention to detail have been instrumental in driving RSR’s achievements on and off the track.
Learn more about our standout horses.