Kurt Eck succeeds Rita Osborn as president of the Kansas Quarter Horse Racing Association, continuing the organization’s leadership as Kansas racing moves toward a new chapter.

© KQHRA

EUREKA, KS–MARCH 11, 2026–The Kansas Quarter Horse Racing Association has elected new leadership, with Kurt Eck stepping in as president. As he begins his term, he is reflecting on the organization's long history while also looking ahead to the opportunities for racing in the Sunflower State.

“Our association has long served as the unified voice of Kansas Quarter Horse owners and breeders,” Eck said while outlining his vision for the group. That voice has been instrumental in shaping the modern landscape of racing in Kansas.

Decades ago, the organization helped lead the constitutional effort that authorized parimutuel racing in the 1980s, an achievement that required extensive coordination and industry support. In the years that followed, the association advocated for legislation establishing the Fair County Benefit Fund, which helped sustain operations at Eureka Downs and preserve racing opportunities within the state.

More recently, the association has played a key role in advancing historical horse racing legislation designed to help revitalize Kansas racing through a sustainable tax revenue model.

“Through each chapter, the dedication of our past leadership and membership has kept the foundation solid—even during challenging seasons,” Eck said.

Today, anticipation surrounding the return of live racing in Kansas continues to grow. As Eck wrote his remarks in the KQHRA March newsletter, training races were already underway at Remington Park — a signal that spring and the racing season are fast approaching.

Among the Kansas-bred youngsters participating in training races at Remington Park were La Chilanga, a filly by Freal out of Malfunction 15 by Apollitical Jess, bred by Vaqueros Racing LLC; Streakin Heart A Tac, a filly by Igotyourtac out of Streakin A Tac by Streakin La Jolla, bred by Zach Stevenson; and Ar First Pretty Boy, a gelding by Stevie B First Cash out of Lotas First by Lota Pyc, bred by Aguileras Racing LLC.

Also appearing in training races were La Socia Green, a filly by Rideinyourwagon out of First Tempting by First Down Dash, bred by Green D Ranch LLC; and Apollitcal Fury, a gelding by Apollitical Spirit out of Devins Fury by Furyofthewind, bred by Adolfo Holguin Ruiz.

Eck compared the current moment in Kansas racing to preparing a promising young horse for its first start.

“There is disciplined conditioning behind the scenes. There is careful planning, patience, and attention to detail,” he said. “Above all, there is belief in the horse’s potential. When the gates finally open, preparation meets opportunity.”

According to Eck, that moment is where Kansas racing now finds itself — focused and optimistic about what lies ahead. Looking forward, he emphasized the importance of communication, industry alignment, and practical planning to position Kansas racing for long-term success.

“Meaningful progress will require steady work, collaboration, and member engagement,” Eck said. “This is your organization, and your involvement and perspective matter as we navigate the months and years ahead.”

Eck also took time to recognize the contributions of outgoing president Rita Osborn, whose leadership helped guide the association through key transitions.

“I extend sincere thanks to our outgoing president, Rita Osborn, for her years of dedicated leadership and service,” Eck said. “Her persistence and commitment have positioned this association for future opportunities.”

Osborn will remain active in the industry, continuing to serve on the association’s board as well as the Greenwood County Fair Association, where she was recently elected to the board of directors.

“Rita has been a steady hand and a tireless advocate for Kansas racing,” Eck said. “We are grateful for her continued involvement.”

With a new season approaching and renewed optimism surrounding the sport’s future in Kansas, Eck closed his message with a familiar sentiment shared across racetracks everywhere. “See you at the races.”

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