Rillito Park Racing - Truform Racing Services

SAM MARLAR - THE TUCSONIAN

This year the friends and family of Sam Marlar and dedicating this memorial to their friend Sam and all American Military who served this great country.
Sam was a 1938 Graduate of Amphitheater High School. Sam survived in the U.S. Army during World War II and survived not only the D Day Invasion of the Normandy Beaches but the Battle of the Bulge as well. Sam was a well known face among the racing fans at Rillito Park for more than 50 years. A great fan of the Rillito Mile, it is said that he never once missed watching the great Tucson Finale year after year at Rillito Park.

PETE SELIN Memorial

Pete Selin Memorial Happy Minute 2007/2008 -

is named after the University of Arizona Race Track Industry Program (RTIP) alumnus and turf writer who passed away in 2006 following a multi-year struggle with chronic leukemia. The initial plans for the Pete Selin Memorial race developed in the weeks after his passing, and the first running has been brought to fruition through the efforts of Dr.Scot Waterman, Richard Scheidt, and Michael Costanzo, with help from the RTIP and the Pima County Horseman's Association. The winner of the race will receive an embroidered blanket and trophy, with an additional trophy to remain on display at the RTIP office on campus.

CHARLIE VALDEZ MEMORIAL

Charlie was from Tucson and lived here most of his life. He was an excellent rider in the 50s and 60's and rode in Arizona and New Mexico. One of our Stewards here today is very fortunate to have had Charlie for a friend in the room when they both were riding. He won some very good Quarter Horse races in New Mexico. He was an excellent horsemen and a true friend to those that knew him well. Later in his life, he worked on the starting gate in Arizona and also was a valet that saddled the horses for the riders. Charlie was well known in racing and well loved. You can bet that Charlie is watching us put this meet on and is enjoying it.-

DR DALE SHIRLEY

Who was Doc? He thought he made the best Chili in the world and I have to admit anyone that joined him in his feast would agree. The company was always as good as the dinner. After retiring from his dental practice he became Director of Racing and General Manager of Rillito. He and his wife Patti owned Shirley Racing Stables. She still carries on the family name by racing in Arizona and New Mexico. Doc enjoyed raising colts at his farm below Kitt Peak west of Tucson. He had many horses, dogs and cats and loved them all. Prior to racing horses he owned and raced cars. He is remembered and greatly missed by all