Cara Collins is ready for a blockbuster summer at Oak Grove
by Victoria Howard
After the grueling winter many had to endure: the frigid temperatures and record-breaking snow accumulations, changing the clock ahead to remain lighter in the day, and robins singing “Hallelujah, winter is over,” horsemen are anxiously preparing to race their hopeful future champions, because it’s finally spring.
Oh, and I did I forget to mention that the racing season at Oak Grove is now here. And what a schedule and line of events Oak Grove has for you.
Oak Grove’s opening day is on Monday (March 23), and Cara Collins, the senior sales and racing operations manager is ready and excited to “get the party started.”
The establishment located in the southern part of Kentucky, just over the Tennessee line, is one of harness racing’s up-and-coming venues.
The track opened its doors in September 2020. It offers a 1,000 square foot smoke-free grandstand, plus a patio that provides a great view of the homestretch, finish line and winner’s circle.
Although Collins had not been raised around standardbred horses, her family was deeply rooted in the riding horse industry.
How did you become involved in harness racing?
“I was born and raised in a small town in Northern Michigan and from a very young age, I dreamed of being in ‘horse country,’ which ultimately led me to pursue college in Kentucky.
“Presently I live in Western Kentucky which is about 30 minutes north of the track. Throughout middle school and high school, I competed in riding horse events, which ultimately laid the foundation for my passion in the equine world.
“In June of 2020, my first desk job at Oak Grove was a card table that was set up in the paddock locker room. I began my career as a horsemen’s bookkeeper and eventually advanced to racing and equine operations manager at Oak Grove.
“I jumped ‘all in’ and was fortunate enough to learn from two outstanding mentors and friends, Kevin Mack and Dave Magee. Together, we built a strong team at Oak Grove – one built on respect and appreciation for what each individual brings to the table.
“I believe that team dynamic is what makes Oak Grove unique. We are all aligned with one goal: to strengthen the industry and make it better for the next generation of people and horses.”
What are your duties and what are some of the things that Oak Grove has planned for 2026?
“My responsibilities include frontside event sales for our conference rooms, ballroom and hotel, Equestrian Center sales and event management, and assembling and reading the team that operates the race meet from start to finish.
“As far as events, we are a family affair and offer something for the entire family:
• May 2 is Derby Party
• May 4 — Oak Grove Trotting Derby eliminations
• May 10 — Mother’s Day brunch and corgi dog races
• May 16 — Oak Grove Trotting Derby finals (the richest Hambletonian prep race)
• May 25 — Memorial Day celebration featuring wiener dog races
• And the Kentucky Sires Stakes, featuring strong purses and incentives for Kentucky-bred horses.
“We are proud to blend high-level racing with the fun, community-focused events.”
What are you doing to attract new faces?
“Since opening Oak Grove we are proud to have helped build a circuit that allows horsemen to race a significant portion of the year right here in Kentucky.
“Our purses are competitive and designed to incentivize investment in Kentucky breeding and racing. The Horsemen’s Association and CDI have consistently prioritized the best interests of horsemen, and we are focused on long-term sustainability and growth within the Commonwealth.
“Competitive purses are certainly a major draw for owners, trainers and drivers. We pride ourselves on a safe track and maintaining outstanding regulatory standards.”
Do you own any racehorses?
“Not at this time, but we own riding horses. Though, with my schedule they may think they’re retired. My horses are living their best lives grazing in the pasture, occasionally tolerating my children climbing aboard or participating in a hair-braiding session. It’s certainly not a bad life.
“I do hope to test the waters and become a proud mommy of a standardbred one day and participate in the industry as a horseman, but at this time I have plenty of responsibilities — and mouths to feed.”
What makes racing at Oak Grove special and what do you think we can do to strengthen and revitalize our sport?
“Our goal at Oak Grove is for every horseman who comes through our gates to feel welcomed, valued, and are proud to compete here. We want participants to be excited to stable, race, and begin their season here. We believe there should be room for everyone to succeed and contribute to the strength of the industry. I love seeing horses make their debut at Oak Grove and go on to become standout performers, and it’s equally rewarding to see successful horses retire to good homes after productive careers here.
“As far as helping to improve harness racing, we need to broaden our appeal beyond those who were born into or are already passionate about the industry. Engaging the general public is critical. Give them something exciting to root and cheer for. Additionally, we are facing a generational shift.
“The younger generation is not entering the industry at the same rate, and we are experiencing shortages across operational roles and horsemen alike. This is an entire community that needs a stronger pipeline and succession plan to sustain its future. Investing in outreach, education, and workforce development will be key to long-term success.”
