Heaven and Horseshoes, A Worship and Community Center, is preparing to officially open Friday, February 6.
The 7,000 square foot facility is located just outside the entrance to the backstretch area at Horseshoe Indianapolis Racing and Casino and will provide space for numerous events for Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing participants.
Ground breaking for the center began Wednesday, March 5, 2025. The building will be occupied by the Indiana Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA) along with Quarter Horse Racing Association of Indiana (QHRAI). Elite Construction provided work for the project which includes a Chapel, full kitchen, two meeting rooms, three restrooms, and four offices. The $1.4 million project was funded by Caesars Entertainment on two and one-half acres across from the Racing Administration building, making it convenient for all backstretch workers and those involved in racing.
“We are very grateful to Caesars Entertainment for providing the property and funding for this project,” said Joe Davis, President of Indiana HBPA. “The facility turned out beyond our expectations and will allow us to provide numerous events throughout the year that benefit our horsemen and women.”
The gathering room, inspired by 20-foot high ceiling enhancements, offers seating for 100 and is connected to the kitchen, complete with state of the art appliances, including two restaurant grade stoves, three sinks, two commercial refrigerators and a walk in freezer. The island and counter space provide essential space for frequent meals presented by both Indiana HBPA and QHRAI.
“Being able to bring our members into one space, which is temperature controlled and has ample seating, is a much needed opportunity for us to better serve our members,” added Chris Duke, President of QHRAI. “This facility allows us to expand our current events while keeping it very convenient for our racing participants.”
In addition to the gathering area, Heaven and Horseshoes includes a 126-seat Chapel, complete with a full audio visual system. The pulpit area is showcased by a cross inlaid into the windows in the center of the elevated area.
“Our ministry for our racing community is a vital part of our operations,” added Mickey Sajche, Chaplain for both QHRAI and Indiana HBPA. “This space allows us to provide more efficient space for weekly bible study groups as well as weekly church services. We plan to have our first service Sunday, February 8 and hope to offer weekly bilingual services each Sunday evening.”
Heaven and Horseshoes Community Center is surrounded by 60 parking spaces. Summer produce stands will be offered in this area with a porte cochere in the front and an outdoor covered patio area in the back available for inclement weather. Behind the facility is a soccer field and the foundation has been laid for a new basketball court, which will be completed this spring.
Heaven and Horseshoes will conduct a ribbon cutting ceremony February 6 followed by a program in the Chapel featuring guest speaker Pat Day, retired Hall of Fame jockey who is now active in the Kentucky Race Track Chaplaincy.
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