Backside Stories is an oral history project that seeks to understand the influence of Latinos/as and Chicanos/as on the thoroughbred horse racing industry at Santa Anita Park. Through interviews and archive material, this project endeavors to uncover the history of backside jobs and the people who do them.
But what is the backside?
The “backside” refers to the stable and barn areas of a thoroughbred race track. The backside, though usually still on the race track’s property, is separate from the public areas and is more “behind-the-scenes”. These areas are where the horses are kept during race meets. The backside usually also includes dormitories and cafeterias for workers. On the other hand, the “frontside” commonly refers to the public side of the racetrack. This includes jobs that deal with the business and operation of the racetrack itself from wagering, marketing, and accounting to tours, restaurants, and landscaping.
What are backside jobs?
Jobs in the backside range from hot-walking and grooming to exercise riding and training. A comprehensive list of jobs and their descriptions can be found here.
Who works in the backside?
Workers in the backside are from many different economic, social, and cultural backgrounds. This project only highlights Latinos/as and Chicanos/as with hopes of expansion.
How do I participate?
If you would like to participate by offering stories, artifacts, or photographs, please contact us at backsidestories@gmail.com.