Tom Metzen Sr., a tireless worker for horsemen in Arizona, Minnesota and across the country, passed away Aug. 10. At the time of his passing, Metzen was First Vice President and Central Region Vice President for the National HBPA, President of the Minnesota HBPA and Executive Director of the Arizona HBPA.
“The entire horse racing industry has lost one of its biggest fans and one of its most vocal advocates,” said Eric Hamelback, CEO of the National HBPA. “To know Tom was to know his heart and thus his passion for the horse and his love of our industry. His tireless efforts toward promoting racing, advocating for horsemen and supporting backside programs will be sorely missed and may likely never be matched. I am honored to have known Tom and even more proud to have worked alongside him.”
Metzen was a member of the Canterbury Hall of Fame, and he enjoyed great success at the Minnesota track as an owner. He campaigned three horses to win Horse of the Year titles at Canterbury: Shot of Gold, Prime Step and Chisholm.
His service to the Minnesota racing industry also included time as chairman of the Minnesota Racing Commission and president of the Minnesota Thoroughbred Association. Among his accomplishments in Minnesota, Metzen was instrumental in the establishment of the Claiming Crown at Canterbury.
On a national level, he served on numerous committees for the NHBPA, including budget and dues, The Horsemen's Journal, insurance and public relations. He also served on the NHBPA's Executive Committee and chaired the organization's National Assistance Committee.
In 2007, Tom received the National Industry Service Award. This award is the premier award of the National HBPA given in recognition of dedication, service and leadership to the horse racing industry.
Tom was preceded in death by son Thomas Jr. and brother Jim. He is survived by loving wife of 56 years Karen; children Tim and Kathy (Tim) Machacek; grandchildren Nick (Tamara), Laura (Carl), Travis (Kayelynn), Luke (Shahara), Kayla, Adam and Allison; great-grandchildren Mya, Ava, Colton and Cooper; brother David (Leslie); sister-in-law Sandie Metzen. He is also survived by many nieces & nephews.
A memorial service will be held Tuesday, Aug. 16, at 11:30 a.m. at St. James Lutheran Church located at 460 W. Annapolis St. in West St. Paul, Minnesota. Family will greet friends on Monday, Aug. 15, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Kandt and Tetrick Funeral Home at 140 8th Avenue North in South St. Paul and will greet friends on Tuesday one hour before service at church. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to SSP Educational Foundation.
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