The Harbor the Gold gelding captured his first three races of the season including the track’s first two stakes races for older horses this season. In last month’s Budweiser, he dominated an eight-horse field with a 9 ¼-length triumph. And in each of those three races, Noosa Beach has beaten almost every suitable contender at least twice.

Sunday’s $50,000 Mt. Rainier Handicap at 1 1/8 miles *the final tune-up for the $250,000 Longacres Mile*will help to separate the contenders from the pretenders in the handicap division. Assessment, defending Mile champ and Horse of the Meeting, clouded the picture just a bit, after he snapped Noosa Beach’s 6-for-6 sprint record with a neck victory in the Governor’s Handicap on July 11. However, Assessment’s trainer, Howard Belvoir said Noosa Beach should still be considered the horse to beat.

“Noosa Beach is a nice horse,” Belvoir said. “He’s good enough to where he can make mistakes and still find a way to win. Assessment is still a race behind most of these horses, but he’s coming up to this race good.”

Assessment scored a 2 ¼-length victory in the last year’s Mt. Rainier, becoming the third Mt. Rainier-victor in four years to capture the Mile in the same year. The Jump Start gelding suffered an ankle chip last September and after two disappointing starts in 2010, questions arose about his ability perform at the top level. Assessment’s performance in the Governor’s proved to his skeptics that he still possessed the ability to compete with the best horses.

The field for the 15th running of the Mt. Rainier Handicap: Senor Rojo, Miguel Perez, 116 lbs.; Gallon, Juan Gutierrez, 116; Wasserman, Jennifer Whitaker, 114; Rooster City, Kevin Krigger, 117; Dixie Meister, Inoel Beato, 113; Noosa Beach, Ricky Frazier, 121; Assessment, Gallyn Mitchell, 120.

TALENTED SIX-HORSE FIELD WILL TAKE CENTER STAGE IN SUNDAY’S $50,000 BOEING HANDICAP

The older filly and mare stakes division took another step forward heading into Sunday’s $50,000 Boeing Handicap at 1-1/16 miles*the final prep for the $75,000 Emerald Distaff on Aug. 22.

Already containing quality multiple stakes-winners Clair Annette and Gadget Queen, the division added even more depth with shippers Kimmyv and Pretty Katherine.

Pretty Katherine has faced some of the best fillies and mares in the country including St. Trinians and runner-up Horse of the Year Zenyatta*arguably one of the best mares to ever set foot on a racetrack. Pretty Katherine has only raced three times on a dirt surface and will likely come from off the pace.

Kimmyv comes off a 6 ¼-length romp at Churchill Downs, where she led the entire duration of the race. Swift Thoroughbreds Inc. purchased Kimmyv privately after her win and moved barns from trainer Bob Baffert to Dino Condilenios. The daughter of El Corredor has never routed and with her sprint speed, she could be a pace factor that Clair Annette would have to contend with. However, Condilenios said that he would be surprised to see her on the lead.

“I’m not positive what to expect from her, ” Condilenios said. “Her last work really impressed me. She showed that she is really ratable.”

A Beau Genius mare, Clair Annette is pure speed and will likely be the one to catch going into the final turn. Clair Annette upset 6-to-5 favorite Gadget Queen with a wire-to-wire, 5 ½-length score on the Fourth of July in the King County Handicap. Trainer Blaine Wright said he was surprised that Gadget Queen was the favorite.

“I didn’t think we could win that race because there was no pace,” Wright said. “Nobody can beat Clair Annette if she doesn’t get hooked on the front end. Every time Clair Annette gets headed, she gets beat.”

Gadget Queen should have plenty of speed to run at with Clair Annette and Cliff’s Secret, who also won her last race from start-to-finish.

The Cliff’s Edge Filly has been an interesting story at Emerald Downs this season. Cliff’s Secret is 3-for-3 in her career, which she started in a $5,000 maiden claimer. Steadily climbing up the class ladder, her most recent victory came on July 9, when she captured a $17,500 claiming race by 5 ¾ lengths. She received an 88 Beyer Speed Figure*the highest last-out number posted by any horse in this field.

The field for the 15th running of the Boeing Handicap: Barbara’s Love, Gallyn Mitchell, 116 lbs.; Pretty Katherine, Juan Gutierrez, 120; Gadget Queen, Frazier, 119; Clair Annette, Kevin Krigger, 122; Cliff’s Secret, Francisco Duran, 113; Kimmyv, Chad Hoverson, 118.

CONDILENIOS: TEIDE AND BURJ DUBAI ARE MILE POSSIBILITIES

The 75th Running of the Longacres Mile is less than one month away, and the possible contenders from outside Emerald Downs have started to emerge.

Trainer Dino Condilenios holds a pair of aces, who will run in the Mile if they can overcome a few potential obstacles.

Condilenios said Teide, who finished third the ‘09 Mile, is listed as questionable after suffering a quarter crack on July 1. The injury occurred during his victory in the Lieutenant Governor’s Handicap at Hastings Park, in Vancouver, B.C.

“If you would have asked me a week ago, if Teide would be in the Mile, I would’ve said no, ” Condilenios said. “He seems to be doing a lot better now, and if all goes well, he’ll be there.”

Condilenios said that his up and coming star Burj Dubai would run in the Mile*if he were assigned a high enough weight to qualify. The 4-year-old by Distorted Humor has only raced three times, but according to Condilenios, Burj Dubai has more raw talent than Teide, who has reeled off five career stakes races.

NOTES: Week 15 honors: Jockey-Gallyn Mitchell (5 wins); Trainer-Blaine Wright (3 wins on 36th birthday); Owner-John & Janene Maryanski (Newfound Man, Seattle Slew Handicap); Groom- Gabriel Moreno (Rigoberto Velasquez, West Seattle Boy)*Bell Adieu, who finished third to stablemate Carrabelle Harbor in the NWSS Knights Choice Stakes on July 18, will attempt to break her maiden in Saturday’s second race*a maiden special weight for 2-year-olds *Federal Way Handicap winner Feeling Fancy will make here second start since recovering from a foot abscess in Sunday’s $21,500 allowance race for 3-year-old fillies. The daughter of Sky Mesa will be the likely betting favorite facing multiple stakes-winner Knight Raider and stakes-placed Zenovit in Sunday’s ninth race*Longacres Mile hopeful Gallant Son finished third as the 13-to-10 favorite Wednesday in the $75,000 Wickerr Stakes on the turf at Del Mar. Blue Chagall ($24) was the winner by 1-¼ lengths and Aggie Engineer finished second, a nose ahead of Gallant Son, who might have been compromised by a tardy break*. Washington-bred 4-year-old filly Point of Reference, runner-up in three stakes last year at Emerald Downs, broke an eight-race losing streak in a $26,000 allowance race Wednesday at Santa Rosa*Newfound Man and Posse Power both earned 84 Beyers for last Sunday’s Seattle Slew Handicap, which Newfound Man won by a nose*Call On Carson, a double stakes winner at Emerald Downs in 2007 and sixth in the 2008 Longacres Mile, finished fourth in a $5,000 claiming race at Arapahoe Park last week.

Recognized globally as the “gold standard” for Thoroughbred yearling auctions, the September Sale is represented by nearly 200 stakes winners to date in 2010, highlighted by 21 Grade/Group 1 victors including classic winners Lookin At Lucky and Drosselmeyer; champions Zenyatta and Gio Ponti; and Quality Road, Devil May Care, Life At Ten, Eskendereya, General Quarters, Ice Box, Stately Victor, Crisp, Evening Jewel, Kinsale King and Karelian, among others.

“The September Sale is world-renown for offering a quantity of quality;” said Geoffrey Russell, Keeneland’s Director of Sales. “International and domestic buyers both know they will find a strong selection of extraordinary individuals at every level of the market.

“This year’s list of stakes-winning September Sale alumni reads like a “who’s who” of the top three-year-old colts and fillies and handicap horses, led by Preakness winner Lookin At Lucky, Belmont winner Drosselmeyer and the unbelievable Zenyatta. It further confirms Keeneland’s status as the premier source for graded stakes winners,” Russell added.

Of the total 4,857 yearlings cataloged, 2,562 are colts, 2,292 are fillies and three are geldings.

Yearlings by 294 stallions will be offered in September, with yearlings by 121 stallions cataloged during the sale’s opening week. Of the 40 leading active stallions ranked on the General Sires List, 38 are represented, including the last two yearlings by leading sire Storm Cat. Also cataloged are yearlings by such prominent foreign-based sires as Dansili (GB), Montjeu (IRE), Holy Roman Emperor, King’s Best and Agnes Tachyon (JPN).

“This sale is impressive for the depth and breadth of its stallion roster, featuring an abundance of yearlings by many of the world’s most sought-after sires as well as exciting young stallions,” Russell said.

Yearlings by such established sires as A.P. Indy, Afleet Alex, Arch, Awesome Again, Candy Ride (ARG), Distorted Humor, Dynaformer, El Prado (IRE), Elusive Quality, Empire Maker, Ghostzapper, Giant’s Causeway, Green Desert, Indian Charlie, Kingmambo, Lemon Drop Kid, Malibu Moon, Medaglia d’Oro, Mineshaft, Mr. Greeley, Pulpit, Rahy, Seeking the Gold, Smart Strike, Speightstown, Storm Cat, Street Cry (IRE), Tale of the Cat, Tapit, Tiznow and Unbridled’s Song, among others, will be offered.

Also cataloged are yearlings by such top young stallions as After Market, Any Given Saturday, Aragorn (IRE), Bernardini, Bluegrass Cat, Bob and John, Corinthian, Discreet Cat, Half Ours, Hard Spun, Henny Hughes, Invasor (ARG), Jazil, Latent Heat, Lawyer Ron, Master Command, Political Force, Purim, Rockport Harbor, Scat Daddy, Silver Train, Stevie Wonderboy, Street Sense, Teuflesburg and War Front, among others.

Keeneland presents a new format for its 67th annual September Sale, highlighted by:

* Book 1 comprised of two select evening sessions during which 211 yearlings will be sold, to be conducted Sunday and Monday nights, September 12-13. Evening sessions will start at 7 p.m. ET.

* A comprehensive Book 2 featuring 1,302 yearlings, selling Tuesday – Friday, September 14-17. Roughly 325 horses per day will be presented in alphabetical order by dam in a single catalog.

* Following a “dark” day on Saturday, September 18, Keeneland will continue to offer a diverse selection of yearlings.

All sessions following the select portion of the sale will begin at 10 a.m.

September Sale catalogs will be available on-line at Keeneland.com beginning Tuesday, August 10. Print catalogs will be mailed the week of August 23.

Keeneland will provide live coverage of the entire 14-day sale at Keeneland.com.

This Week!

50¢ BEER NIGHT This Friday PRESENTED By HOUSTON PRESS From 5:30 to 10 p.m.

50 Cent Beer Night Continues

EVERY Friday at The Park!

Racing Highlights:

Thursday, July 29 post time 7pm featuring 11 Races, including:

* Colors Of Houston Paint Futurity Trials (races 2 & 3)

* Sam Houston Maiden Classic Trials (races 5-11)

Friday, July 30 post time 7pm featuring 11 Races, including:

* Clean Barn Award presented by the Texas Racing Fillies (race 5)

* The “1800” Starter Series (race 6)

* $30,000+Barnmaster Spring Stakes (RG3) (race 7)

* $15,000+Jones Bloodstock Ins Starter Stakes (race

* $30,000+Gulf Coast 4 Star Trailer “550” Stakes (RG3) (race 9)

* $35,000+Ancira Ford Classic (RG3) (race 10)

Saturday, July 31 post time 5pm featuring 9 Races including:

* $62,730 Adequan Texas Derby Challenge (G3) (race 6)

* Gulf Coast 4 Star Trailers Classic (race 7)

* $400,000+TQHA Sale Futurity (RG1) (race

Don’t Miss Party on the Patio BBQ Bash THIS SATURDAY featuring general admission & BBQ plate with choice of (2) meats, potato salad and baked beans for $15 per person plus

$2 Draft Beer Specials from 4 to 8 p.m.

The Q-Racing Aces will be trackside on Friday, July 30 & Saturday, July 31.

Stop by and meet the Aces, who will preview

the TQHA Summer Showdown stakes and

the $400,000 TQHA Sale Futurity.

Pick up a free tip sheet, great giveaway items and a complimentary $2 betting voucher, courtesy of the American Quarter Horse Association.

2010 EPICUREAN EVENING PRESENTED BY THE HOUSTON NORTHWEST CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

AT SAM HOUSTON RACE PARK

Enjoy Culinary Delights From Northwest Houston’s Best Restaurants & Caterers, A Wine Tasting Event, Live Racing and More on Thursday, July 29, 2010

HOUSTON (July 14, 2010)— The Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce (www.houstonnwchamber.org http://www.houstonnwchamber.org/ ) presents its annual Epicurean Evening at Sam Houston Race Park (www.shrp.com http://www.shrp.com/ ) showcasing the finest food establishments in Northwest Houston serving up samples of their most popular dishes on Thursday, July 29, 2010, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Thirty restaurants and caterers will be on-hand with a variety of food options during live racing events. In addition, the event will include an optional wine tasting event, open to patrons ages 21 and up, featuring wine selections from Constellation Wines for just an additional $10 per person.

Participating restaurants include: Orioli’s, Jason’s Deli, Sweet Tomatoes, Café Express, Freebirds World Burrito, Paul’s Pizza Shop, Hasta La Pasta, Mia Bella, Gringo’s Mexican Kitchen, Kabab Kahani, Boudreaux’s Cajun Kitchen, Treat, Guayaba Latin Grill, JB’s Steakhouse, My Fit Foods, Franks & Toppings, Capri Pasta Pizza & More, South Street Dining, Berryhill Catering, Strata Restaurant & Bar, Drew’s Pastry Place, Longwood Golf Club and more.

Tickets for the Epicurean Evening are $15 for adults and $5 for children ages 12 and under and available at the Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce office or online at www.shrp.com http://www.shrp.com/ .

Live Quarter Horse racing begins Thursday night at 7 p.m. The fun continues on Friday night with live racing and 50 Cent Draft Beer specials from 5:30 to 10 p.m. presented by Houston Press & 97.5 ESPN, and live racing along with Party on the Patio BBQ Night on Saturday featuring general admission, a BBQ plate with choice of (2) meats, potato salad and baked beans for $15 per person. The Verizon Wireless Summer Concert Series on the Bud Light stage will have a performance from country star Luke Bryan and special guest Whiskey Myers. Concert tickets start at $15 and offer FREE admission to live racing events. FREE general parking for live racing & concert events. For more information and tickets, visit www.shrp.com http://www.shrp.com/ .

Epicurean Evening is sponsored by Lone Star College System, Sam Houston Race Park, Trustmark Bank, Constellation Brands (Robert Mondavi Private Selection, Clos du Bois, Woodbridge wines), Hasta La Pasta Italian Grill, Fred Haas Toyota Country, CenterPoint Energy, Woodforest National Bank, American Laser Centers, University of Houston – Downtown, Kelsey Seybold Clinics, Beyond Espresso, University of Houston, Texas Blue Spring Distributors, Lee Wayne Corporation, Drew’s Pastry Place, Sweet Tomatoes Catering, Kwik Kopy #117, Northwest Coffee News, HEB – Vintage Park, Aerodrome Ice Skating Complex. DNC Travel Hospitality Services, Inc. and Texas Tutor Professionals.

The Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce was founded in 1974 to serve the greater northwest area of Harris County. Visionary citizens chartered the Chamber and today it has grown to over 750 members serving an area of approximately 500,000 residents. The northwest region has operated primarily as an unincorporated area without the benefit of town hall, mayor or main street. The Chamber of Commerce has partnered closely with county commissioners, elected officials and community organizations to fill the void by working to improve the area for both businesses and families.

TQHA SUMMER SHOWDOWN STAKES RACES HIGHLIGHT LIVE RACING CARD ON

FRIDAY, JULY 30TH & SATURDAY, JULY 31ST

AT SAM HOUSTON RACE PARK

Annual TQHA Summer Showdown Showcases Top Accredited Texas-Bred Quarter Horses & Features More Than

$500,000 in Total Purse Money This Weekend

HOUSTON (July 29, 2010)—Sam Houston Race Park (www.shrp.com http://www.shrp.com/ ) will host the 12th Annual Texas Quarter Horse Association (TQHA) Summer Showdown on July 30 & 31, 2010. The highlight of the weekend’s races, and largest stakes race of The Park’s 2010 American Quarter Horse meet, will be the $400,000 TQHA Sale Futurity (RG1), which will take place on Saturday evening.

Friday night’s stakes races feature the $15,000 + Jones Bloodstock Insurance Starter Stakes showcasing Texas-bred Quarter Horses three years of age and up racing a distance of 350 yards; $30,000 + Gulf Coast 4 Star Trailer “550” Stakes (RG3) with 3-year-old Texas-bred horses and older running 550 yards; $35,000 + Ancira Ford Classic showcasing 3-year-old Texas-bred horses and up racing 400 yards; and the $30,000 + Barnmaster Sprint Stakes (RG3) will feature Texas-bred horses three years of age and up sprinting a distance of 250 yards.

Saturday night’s race card features the highly anticipated $400,000 TQHA Sale Futurity featuring 2-year-old Quarter Horses which passed through the 2009 TQHA Yearling Sale Ring, qualified and remain eligible for the race. The 350-yard sprint will showcase Jazzy Sixes who was the fastest qualifier from the trials held at The Park on July 16. Jazzy Sixes has a winning combination behind him with trainer Tooter Jordan and jockey Rodrigo Sigala Vallejo both making their way into The Park’s top five in their respective fields.

“You can’t really ask for a better start,” commented Jordan. “We’re very pleased with how well he’s come out and won both starts here at Sam Houston and we expect him to keep getting better with each race.”

The remainder of the 10-horse field features: Gols Honey Money Pop, Jakes Charming Jody, Eyza It, Fettish, MCM Shes Oceans Away, BB Azoom, Brimmies Alli Bi B, Executive Precision and Endless Ocean.

Also featured on Saturday’s live race card will be the $62,730 Adequan Texas Derby Challenge (G3). The Adequan Texas Derby Challenge will showcase 3-year-old Quarter Horses racing a distance of 400 yards. The favorite is Diamond For Jess (5-2), who is solid, winning two of only five starts at The Park. The 3-year-old gelding is trained by R.L. Rick Robinson and will be ridden by jockey Luis Ramirez.

The remainder of the 10-horse field will feature: GJR Snowman, JA Call Collect, Get Down Boy, Golly Zee, Ms Riptide, Nancys Ocean, Azoomin With Jessie, Shazooms Golden Boy and Hotlittlechica.

In addition to live racing this weekend, The Park will host Party on the Patio BBQ Bash featuring general admission and a BBQ plate with choice of (2) meats, potato salad and baked beans for $15 per person, along with $2 draft beer from 4 – 8 p.m.

The Verizon Wireless Summer Concert Series on the Bud Light stage hosts a concert from Luke Bryan and Whiskey Myers presented by The New 93Q immediately following live racing events. Tickets start at $15 and provide FREE admission to live racing. For more information, visit www.theshowgrounds.com http://www.theshowgrounds.com/ .

The Texas Quarter Horse Association began in 1978 and is the largest American Quarter Horse affiliate. We are located in Austin, Texas and have a full-time staff of eight that run two divisions: Racing and Halter & Performance. Current membership is over 2,500 horse enthusiasts.

JULY EVENTS AT THE PARK

Live Racing, 50 Cent Beer Night Every Friday, Party on the Patio, Epicurean Event, Verizon Wireless Summer Concert Series & More!

WHAT: Sam Houston Race Park (www.shrp.com) is heating up the summer with live racing and special events for the month of July! Be at The Park for live American Quarter Horse racing Thursdays and Fridays beginning at 7 p.m. and Saturdays beginning at 5 p.m. Catch 50 Cent Beer Night presented by Houston Press EVERY Friday night from 5:30 to 10 p.m. through August 13!

Special events for July include:

* EVERY Friday Night – 50¢ Draft Beer Night presented by Houston Press featuring 50¢ draft beer available from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. along with live racing events;

* July 29th – Epicurean Evening and live Quarter Horse racing events featuring the Colors of Houston Paint Futurity Trials & the Sam Houston Maiden Trials presented by Spring Dodge.

* July 30th – Live Quarter Horse racing featuring Grade 3 $30,000 Barnmaster Spring Stakes, Grade 3 $35,000 Ancira Ford Classic, Grade 3 $30,000 Gulf Coast 4 Star Trailer “550” Stakes and $15,000 Jones Bloodstock Insurance Starter Stakes presented by Gulf Coast 4 Star Trailers.

* July 31st – Live Quarter Horse racing events featuring the Grade 1 $400,000 TQHA Sale Futurity and Grade 3 $35,000 Adequan Texas Derby Challenge presented by Gulf Coast 4 Star Trailers; Party on the Patio BBQ Night featuring admission & BBQ plate for $15 per person along with $2 draft beer from 4 – 8 p.m., National Anthem performance from Junior SHRP Idol winner Jenne Madrid; and a post-race concert on the Bud Light Stage from Luke Bryan and Whiskey Myers as part of the Verizon Wireless Summer Concert series.

A la carte dining is available during live racing events on Friday nights. The Grande Buffet is served every Saturday in the Winner’s Circle Restaurant during live racing events. For reservations and details, please visit www.shrp.com http://www.shrp.com/ .

Live Quarter Horse racing continues through Saturday, August 14 at The Park. For a complete list of racing and concert events, visit www.shrp.com http://www.shrp.com/ .

TICKETS: $15 Party on the Patio Steak Night includes: general admission; steak dinner and twice-baked potato per person.

$15 Party on the Patio BBQ Night includes: general admission; BBQ plate with choice of (2) meats, potato salad and baked beans per person.

$19 Party Pack includes: general admission; club level counter seat; live racing program; burger basket or concession entrée; (2) small sodas or draft beers; and (1) $2 wagering coupon per person.

$35 Winner’s Circle (Saturdays only) package includes: general admission; Grande Buffet including tax & gratuity; live racing program; and (1) $2 Wagering Coupon per person.

General admission: $6 Adults; $4 Senior Citizens; kids ages 12 and under FREE.

PARKING: FREE General Parking

FAN APPRECIATION DOLLAR DAY AT SAM HOUSTON RACE PARK FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 2010

Family Friendly Dollar Day Event With Live Racing, $1 Specials, 50 Cent Draft Beer, Giveaways & Concert from the Dennis Price Band & the Jeff Boortz Band on the Bud Light Side Stage

HOUSTON (July 20, 2010)—Thank You Fans For Another Great Summer of Live Racing! Be at Sam Houston Race Park (www.shrp.com http://www.shrp.com/ ) for an evening of fun as The Park celebrates Fan Appreciation Dollar Day sponsored by Dreyer’s Ice Cream and Hebrew National Hot Dogs on Friday, August 13, 2010.

Fan Appreciation Dollar Day features general admission, live racing program, hot dogs, soda and ice cream all for just $1 each throughout the day along with 50 Cent Draft Beer specials from 5:30 to 10 p.m. The Park will open live racing gates at 5:30 p.m.; first post is 7 p.m.

Live racing events include the $50,000 Sam Houston Classic (G2) stakes race, a 440 yard race along the dirt track for horses ages three and up.

In addition to live racing events and Dollar Day specials, the 2010 Verizon Wireless Summer Concert Series on the Bud Light side stage will heat things up with performances from the 2010 Battle of the Bands participants the Dennis Price Band (www.dennisprice.com http://www.dennisprice.com/ ) and the Jeff Boortz Band (www.jeffboortz.com http://www.jeffboortz.com/ ).

The Dennis Price Band is an up-and-coming country artist that has been writing music since early 2007. His music is based off past experiences and infuses the excitement of living in rural areas of Southeast, Texas and will bring a powerful performance with music from his first album “Convicted.”

The Jeff Boortz Band is one of Houston’s best country-rock acts. The band has shared the stage with Reckless Kelly, Charlie Robison, and a variety of other established acts. The band is no stranger to The Park, as they have rocked the main stage at The Showgrounds as well as played before thousands of fans recently at the July 4th Extravaganza.

General admission for Friday, August 13 is $1 per person; kids ages 12 and under FREE; and FREE general parking is available.

SHRP MEET LEADERS

LEADING TRAINERS

Top 10 based on number of wins followed by win%

From 04/30/2010 Through 07/24/2010

Name Starts 1st 2nd 3rd Win% $% Purses

Judd S. Kearl 146 44 20 29 30.14 63.70 $222,928

Angel Sanchez 73 20 12 11 27.40 58.90 $86,492

Shawn C. Friesenhahn 88 19 21 13 21.59 60.23 $74,392

Robert J. Bobby Touchet 73 19 14 9 26.03 57.53 $115,889

L. R. Tooter Jordan 51 15 6 8 29.41 56.86 $54,577

Eusevio Huitron 71 13 12 8 18.31 46.48 $116,553

Toby Keeton 75 12 11 10 16.00 44.00 $69,549

Jorge Haddad 67 11 8 15 16.42 50.75 $193,070

Janet A. Van Bebber 27 9 6 3 33.33 66.67 $82,584

James A. Gerhards 68 8 13 7 11.76 41.18 $47,463

LEADING JOCKEYS

Top 10 based on number of wins followed by win%

From 04/30/2010 Through 07/24/2010

Name Mounts 1st 2nd 3rd Win% $% Purses

Luis Ramirez 202 40 39 26 19.80 51.98 $204,460

Rodrigo Sigala Vallejo 129 38 21 23 29.46 63.57 $218,342

David A. Alvarez 157 28 25 22 17.83 47.77 $139,591

Donaciano Arriaga 147 24 18 15 16.33 38.78 $96,324

Jerry Lee Yoakum 99 19 13 16 19.19 48.48 $123,067

Luis L. Vivanco 190 18 25 24 9.47 35.26 $109,893

Jose Amador Alvarez 134 18 14 16 13.43 35.82 $111,373

Gaspar Garcia 201 15 19 30 7.46 31.84 $119,524

Francisco Raul Ramirez, Jr. 142 15 15 12 10.56 29.58 $73,283

Juan M. Torres 118 11 9 12 9.32 27.12 $56,325

LEADING OWNERS

Top 10 based on number of wins followed by win%

From 04/30/2010 Through 07/24/2010

Name Starts 1st 2nd 3rd Win% $% Purses

Morace, J. B. and Sherrie 64 20 10 8 31.25 59.38 $83,128

Shawn C. Friesenhahn 26 8 7 5 30.77 76.92 $26,965

Mickey W. Tiner 23 7 4 4 30.43 65.22 $39,736

A. D. Maddox 47 6 9 6 12.77 44.68 $38,338

Bobby D. Cox 33 6 7 3 18.18 48.48 $57,540

Eleazar Martinez, Sr. 27 5 6 3 18.52 51.85 $27,269

Julie Irwin Cotton 12 5 4 2 41.67 91.67 $22,177

Billy R. Kirk 14 5 3 4 35.71 85.71 $19,838

Jerry Windham 22 5 2 4 22.73 50.00 $66,181

Fernando S. Velazquez 10 5 0 0 50.00 50.00 $12,406

AUGUST EVENTS AT THE PARK

Live Quarter Horse Racing, 50 Cent Beer Night, Party on the Patio,

The New 107.5 The Eagle Rock & Races Day & More This Month

At The Park

WHAT: Sam Houston Race Park (www.shrp.com) will round out the summer with live racing and special events through Saturday, August 14th! Be at The Park for live American Quarter Horse racing Thursdays and Fridays beginning at 7 p.m. and Saturdays beginning at 5 p.m. Plus don’t miss The New 107.5 The Eagle’s Rock & Races Day featuring live racing beginning at 5 p.m. and the Verizon Wireless Summer Concert Series on the Bud Light stage featuring Loverboy, Scandal and The Fabulous Thunderbirds. In addition, catch 50 Cent Beer Night presented by Houston Press EVERY Friday from 5:30 to 10 p.m.

Special events for August include:

* August 6th – 50 Cent Beer Night presented by Houston Press offering 50 cent draft beer specials from 5:30 – 10 p.m. along with live racing events.

* August 7th –Party on the Patio Steak Night offering fans admission, an 8 oz steak hot off the grill and a twice baked potato for just $15 per person along with $2 draft beer from 4 – 8 p.m. Live racing events include the $15,000+ Woodland Stakes race. Don’t miss Roger Creager and Reckless Kelly with The Cody Johnson Band as part of the Verizon Wireless Summer Concert Series on the Bud Light stage.

* August 13th –Fan Appreciation Dollar Day presented by Hebrew National Hot Dogs and Dreyer’s Ice Cream featuring general admission, live racing program, ice cream, hot dogs and soda for just $1 each all day! Plus enjoy 50 Cent draft beer specials from 5:30 to 10 p.m. (Draft beer is $1 prior to 5:30 p.m.) Live Quarter Horse racing highlights include the $35,000 + Sam Houston Classic (G2) stakes race. The Verizon Wireless Summer Concert Series on the Bud Light side stage hosts Battle of the Bands participants the Dennis Price Band & the Jeff Boortz Band playing between races.

* August 14th – The New 107.5 The Eagle Rock & Races Day featuring Loverboy, Scandal & The Fabulous Thunderbirds. Join Dean & Rog from the New 107.5 Morning Show along with all your favorite DJs for an evening of live music and live Quarter Horse racing, including the $15,000 + Sam Houston Maiden Classic presented by Spring Chrysler-Jeep-Dodge, the $20,000 + Colors of Houston Futurity (G2) and the $15,000+ TPHBA Maturity Stakes (G3).

* 50 Cent Draft Beer Night continues EVERY FRIDAY through September 24th from 7-10 p.m. during simulcast operations.

A la carte dining is available during live racing events on Friday nights. The Grande Buffet is served every Saturday in the Winner’s Circle Restaurant during live racing events. For reservations and details, please visit www.shrp.com http://www.shrp.com/ .

Live Quarter Horse racing continues through Saturday, August 14 at The Park. For a complete list of racing and concert events, visit www.shrp.com http://www.shrp.com/ .

TICKETS: $15 Party on the Patio Steak Night includes: general admission; steak dinner and twice-baked potato per person.

$19 Party Pack includes: general admission; club level counter seat; live racing program; burger basket or concession entrée; (2) small sodas or draft beers; and (1) $2 wagering coupon per person.

$35 Winner’s Circle (Saturdays only) package includes: general admission; Grande Buffet including tax & gratuity; live racing program; and (1) $2 Wagering Coupon per person.

General admission: $6 Adults; $4 Senior Citizens; kids ages 12 and under FREE.

PARKING: FREE General Parking

THE NEW 107.5 THE EAGLE ROCK AND RACES DAY FEATURING LOVERBOY, SCANDAL & THE FABULOUS THURNDEBIRDS AT THE SHOWGROUNDS

Classic Rock Festival Features Evening of Live Racing & Live Music on Two Stages and More on Saturday, August 14, 2010

HOUSTON (July 2, 2010)—The New 107.5 The Eagle Rock And Races Day featuring Loverboy, Scandal and The Fabulous Thunderbirds will close out the 2010 Verizon Wireless Summer Concert Series on the Bud Light stage at The Showgrounds at Sam Houston Race Park (www.theshowgrounds.com http://www.theshowgrounds.com/ ) on Saturday, August 14, 2010. The show is presented by KTBU-TV Houston’s Channel 55.

Loverboy (www.loverboyband.com http://www.loverboyband.com/ ) introduced themselves to the world in 1980 with their self-titled debut album and quickly became one of America’s and MTV’s most popular rock bands. From 1980 through 1987, the band garnered four multi-Platinum albums and numerous international Gold albums and sold out arenas and stadiums nationwide. Their hit singles came one after another, and went on to become the anthems and party songs of an entire generation of rock concert going fans. With their red leather pants, bandannas and big rock sound, they created a trademark image along with high-energy live shows.

Patty Smyth (www.pattysmythandscandal.com http://www.pattysmythandscandal.com/ ), both with her hit band Scandal and as a solo artist, has always been, at heart, a rock and roll chick, and that’s no truer today for the mother of six, now back on the road and raring to play for fans new and old. The group burst onto the scene in 1982 with a self-titled debut that turned out to be the best-selling EP in Columbia Records history, featuring the hit single, “Goodbye to You.” Aside from “Goodbye to You,” a #1 MTV video, Scandal included the hits “Love’s Got a Line on You” and “Win Some, Lose Some.” The group’s first full-length album, The Warrior, released in 1984, climbed into the Top 20 on the sales chart, eventually earning RIAA-certified platinum status, with more than a million in sales. Spurred by an impromptu reunion with her old Scandal mates at the end of 2004 on VH1’s Bands Reunited, the band has regrouped, with two original members in Keith Mack and Benjy King and a new rhythm section, bassist Tom Welsch and drummer Eran Asias. With new songs in the can like “Make It Hard” and “End of the Girl,” Patty plans to return to the studio to record the new material.

The Fabulous Thunderbirds (www.fabulousthunderbirds.com http://www.fabulousthunderbirds.com/ ) have been the quintessential American band for more than 30 years. The group’s distinctive sound, influenced by a diversity of musical styles, manifested itself into a unique musical hybrid with hits such as “Tuff Enuff” and “Wrap It Up.” The band, featuring original co-founding member Kim Wilson, continues to tour the U.S. and Europe, and they continue to write and play new music alongside their classic rock hits.

Gates open at 3:30 p.m.; show starts at 6 p.m. General admission tickets are $15 advance general admission or $30 VIP advance general admission and on sale now at www.theshowgrounds.com http://www.theshowgrounds.com/ , www.livenation.com http://www.livenation.com/ , at participating Houston-area Randalls locations, The Showgrounds box office or by calling 800-211-3381.

Concert tickets provide guests with FREE admission to live racing events. Ticket prices increase the day of the show for both general admission and VIP seating. Kids ages 12 and under get in FREE to concert & racing events; General parking is FREE.

The Showgrounds is a general admission, standing room only, open-air, uncovered venue. Shows are open to all ages; Rain or Shine. Lawn chairs and blankets are allowed at all concert events. Chairs are available for purchase at most shows for $12 each. Please visit www.TheShowgrounds.com http://www.theshowgrounds.com/ for a complete list of items allowed at the venue.

SHRP iN THE news

* Visit http://www.bizjournals.com/houston/stories/2010/03/15/editorial3.html to read SHRP President & COO Andrea Young’s article on seeking slots at The Park.

* Catch the Racing Notebook Column in the Houston Chronicle every Thursday, www.chron.com http://www.chron.com/ .

* Sign up for Win For Texas and support the growth & development of Texas racing, visit http://www.winfortexas.org http://www.winfortexas.org/

* Tune in to ESPN 97.5 every Thursday afternoon to hear Fred Faour & AJ chat live with the Horse Babe about the weekend’s racing and concert events!

Become a fan of ThePark!!

CATCH ALL THE PARK’S EVENTS & SIMULCAST HIGHLIGHTS ON

shrp.com http://www.shrp.com/ | theshowgrounds.com http://www.theshowgrounds.com/ | Twitter http://twitter.com/SHRP | Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/Houston-TX/Sam-Houston-Race-Park/63470896630 | YouTube http://www.youtube.com/user/SamHoustonRacePark | MySpace http://www.myspace.com/theshowgrounds | Flickr http://www.flickr.com/photos/shrp

Sam Houston Race Park now carries simulcasting races from

Camarero Race Track

“Home of Poolpote” in Puerto Rico

Carryover- Reaching

Over $2 Million

(as of Monday, July 26th)

The Poolpote from Camarero was hit by a single player on March 15th and paid out $4.94 million on a $10.30 wager.

The Park is 1 of only 3 tracks

in the U.S. carrying Camarero Races.

The Poolpote is a Pick 6 wager that pays out the carryover jackpot only when there is a SINGLE winning ticket. The minimum wager amount is 25¢. The carryover builds at a rate of 10% of the net pool, with the remainder split as 60% major/40% minor payoffs of the Pick 6. Therefore, when there is a single winning ticket, the bettor receives the carryover jackpot plus the major payoff.

For additional details please visit shrp.com.

JOKE OF THE WEEK

♦ OTHER NEWS IN RACING ♦

(as previously printed on Bloodhorse.com)

Judge Rejects Aqueduct Casino Bid Challenge

alt=”Judge Rejects Aqueduct Casino Bid Challenge” title=”Judge Rejects Aqueduct Casino Bid Challenge”>

A legal challenge to stop the current Aqueduct casino bidding process and award the contract to a previous bidder was tossed out by a New York state judge July 29, said state officials who were in the courtroom for the much-anticipated decision.

Supreme Court Judge Barry D. Kramer had issued a temporary restraining order banning the state from making a new selection until he considered a case brought by Aqueduct Entertainment Co., which won and then lost the contract earlier this year.

The judge’s ruling paves the way for the state to officially recommend the winning bidder–there is only one bidder left in the current round–of the long-stalled casino contract as soon as next week.

Aqueduct Entertainment Co. is a firm that includes some of the consortium that saw its winning bid tossed out by the administration of Gov. David Paterson in a previous bidding round.

The closely watched case comes as the state has been working on a timetable for the state Lottery Division to next week announce the winner of what is now the fourth round of bidding in the past nine years of the stalled project. The agency previously tossed out two bidders, leaving only Genting New York, which is owned by a Malaysian casino company that has had investments with Indian tribes in New York and Florida as well as the Monticello racetrack.

Aqueduct Entertainment Group, the predecessor company to AEC, won the third round over several competing groups for the lucrative Aqueduct contract, which calls for 4,500 slot machines and eventually a complex of hotels, restaurants and entertainment space. But the award became the subject of scrutiny, in part because of the political ties of some members of the bidding group, and soon after state and federal investigators opened probes of the process by which Aqueduct Entertainment was selected.

After those investigations began, the state Lottery Division, which oversees New York’s racino industry, scrubbed Aqueduct Entertainment’s award, saying some members of the group would not be able to get licenses by the agency to be involved with the casino.

Aqueduct Entertainment maintained the state’s decision was arbitrary, capricious and discriminatory against the consortium. It filed a lawsuit seeking to be reinstated as the winner of the casino deal.

Much is being banked on the Aqueduct casino. The New York Racing Association says the casino is vital to keeping its finances from going into the red again. Horse owners and breeders have been waiting for higher promised purse awards since the casino was approved in the fall of 2001. And the state is expecting some $400 million or so in annual revenues from the casino, not to mention at least $300 million in the upfront franchise fee bidders must pay the government for the franchise.

Aqueduct Entertainment claims the rules of the bidding process kept changing by the lottery agency, even after it had won the unanimous backing of the governor and legislative leaders.

A lawyer for Aqueduct Entertainment was not immediately available for comment. Jenniver Givner, a Lottery spokeswoman, said the judge dismissed the case, saying the agency did not act in an arbitrary and capricious manner in rejecting the company’s bid.

State Lottery Division director Gordon Medenica said the judge’s ruling “affirmed the fairness and thoroughness of the Lottery’s licensing and evaluation process.’’

Medenica said the agency is “on track’’ to make its recommendation to the governor and legislative leaders in the two houses on or before August 3, which would be in keeping with the timetable in the bidding plan.

Derby, Preakness Winners Clash in Haskell

Led by Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) winner Super Saver http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/thoroughbred/super-saver/2007?source=BHonline and Preakness Stakes (gr. I) winner Lookin At Lucky http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/thoroughbred/lookin-at-lucky/2007?source=BHonline , one of the deepest fields in the 43-year history of the IZOD Haskell Invitational http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/race/USA/MTH/2010/8/1/12/izod-haskell-invitational-s (gr. I) was drawn July 29 at Monmouth Park.

A field of eight 3-year-olds was entered for the $1 million Haskell on Aug. 1, a race that could go a long way in determining the 3-year-old champion. In addition to 5-2 morning-line favorite Lookin At Lucky and co-second choice Super Saver, Derby runner-up Ice Box http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/thoroughbred/ice-box/2007?source=BHonline , Preakness runner-up and Belmont Stakes (gr. I) third-place finisher First Dude http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/thoroughbred/first-dude/2007?source=BHonline , and the up-and-coming Trappe Shot http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/thoroughbred/trappe-shot/2007?source=BHonline are included in the strong field.

Race coverage will air live on ABC beginning at 5 p.m. EDT.

Owned by Karl Watson, Michael Pegram, and Paul Weitman, Lookin At Lucky has been at the top of his class ever since winning four consecutive races as a juvenile en route to being named champion 2-year-old male in 2009. This year, the son of Smart Strike http://www.stallionregister.com/sr_sire_page.asp?refno=1365869&origin=BHonline http://www.equineline.com/dotReportProductSelectionDisplay.cfm?horse_name=Smart+Strike&YOB=1992&breed_type=TB&horse_type=I&ASCID=1443262 won the Rebel (gr. II) at Oaklawn Park and two races later was sent off as the favorite in the Kentucky Derby. Despite finishing sixth during a troubled trip, Lookin At Lucky came back to win the May 15 Preakness by three parts of a length.

The bay colt missed about a week of training for Bob Baffert between the Preakness and the Haskell, but he has turned in five solid works this month. Martin Garcia, who rode Lookin At Lucky for the first time in the Preakness, has the mount once again. Like he did in the Derby, Lookin At Lucky will break from post 1.

“I can’t believe how poorly this horse draws. He’s the most poorly drawn horse I’ve ever had,” said Baffert, who won consecutive editions of the Haskell in 2001 and 2002 with Point Given http://www.stallionregister.com/sr_sire_page.asp?refno=4474473&origin=BHonline http://www.equineline.com/dotReportProductSelectionDisplay.cfm?horse_name=Point+Given&YOB=1998&breed_type=TB&horse_type=I&ASCID=1443262 and War Emblem, respectively, and with Roman Ruler http://www.stallionregister.com/sr_sire_page.asp?refno=6489780&origin=BHonline http://www.equineline.com/dotReportProductSelectionDisplay.cfm?horse_name=Roman+Ruler&YOB=2002&breed_type=TB&horse_type=I&ASCID=1443262 in 2005. “He looks like he’s ready for a big race. It’s not an easy spot, but from here on out none of them are easy.”

Overall, Lookin At Lucky has won seven of 10 starts, including four grade I events. Bred in Kentucky by Gulf Coast Farms and out of the Belong to Me http://www.stallionregister.com/sr_sire_page.asp?refno=1244823&origin=BHonline http://www.equineline.com/dotReportProductSelectionDisplay.cfm?horse_name=Belong+to+Me&YOB=1989&breed_type=TB&horse_type=I&ASCID=1443262 mare Private Feeling, he has earned $2,113,000.

Super Saver received the prefect trip under Calvin Borel to win the May 1 Derby, giving owner/breeder WinStar Farm and trainer Todd Pletcher their first victory in the Run for the Roses. That was the second graded win for the son of Maria’s Mon http://www.stallionregister.com/sr_sire_page.asp?refno=1401243&origin=BHonline http://www.equineline.com/dotReportProductSelectionDisplay.cfm?horse_name=Maria’s+Mon&YOB=1993&breed_type=TB&horse_type=I&ASCID=1443262> , who also romped in the Kentucky Jockey Club Stakes (gr. II) as a juvenile.

Super Saver tired badly at the top of the stretch in the Preakness en route to an eighth-place finish. Since then, he has trained well for Pletcher in New York, working seven times including a five-furlong move in 1:00 3/5 on July 26 at Saratoga.

Borel, who won the Haskell last year aboard Rachel Alexandra http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/thoroughbred/rachel-alexandra/2006?source=BHonline , will attempt to become the first jockey to ever win back-to-back editions of the race. They will break from post 6, which Pletcher described as “perfect.”

Pletcher and WinStar Farm teamed to take back-to-back runnings of the Haskell in 2006 with Bluegrass Cat http://www.stallionregister.com/sr_sire_page.asp?refno=6741460&origin=BHonline http://www.equineline.com/dotReportProductSelectionDisplay.cfm?horse_name=Bluegrass+Cat&YOB=2003&breed_type=TB&horse_type=I&ASCID=1443262 and in 2007 with Any Given Saturday http://www.stallionregister.com/sr_sire_page.asp?refno=7086287&origin=BHonline http://www.equineline.com/dotReportProductSelectionDisplay.cfm?horse_name=Any+Given+Saturday&YOB=2004&breed_type=TB&horse_type=I&ASCID=1443262 .

“The race is going to be run for the 3-year-old champion in the second half of the year,” said Elliott Walden, vice president and racing manager for WinStar. “You have a few horses on even ground, Super Saver being one of them. That’s one of the reasons we’re going to Monmouth. We want it to be settled on the track.”

Robert LaPenta’s Ice Box came from way off the pace in his impressive runner-up Derby finish, missing by 2 1/2 lengths in the slop at Churchill Downs. The 20-1 Florida Derby (gr. I) winner could not duplicate his run in the June 5 Belmont Stakes, as he was never a factor while finishing ninth.

Since the Belmont, Ice Box has worked steadily at Saratoga for trainer Nick Zito, who seeks his first Haskell victory. Jose Lezcano, a former leading rider at Monmouth, has the call on the son of Pulpit http://www.stallionregister.com/sr_sire_page.asp?refno=1442325&origin=BHonline http://www.equineline.com/dotReportProductSelectionDisplay.cfm?horse_name=Pulpit&YOB=1994&breed_type=TB&horse_type=I&ASCID=1443262 . They drew post 3.

Though Donald Dizney’s First Dude has won just one of eight starts, it can be argued that he was the best horse in both the Preakness and Belmont. The Stephen Got Even http://www.stallionregister.com/sr_sire_page.asp?refno=4055684&origin=BHonline http://www.equineline.com/dotReportProductSelectionDisplay.cfm?horse_name=Stephen+Got+Even&YOB=1996&breed_type=TB&horse_type=I&ASCID=1443262 colt set a contested pace in both races under Ramon Dominguez before falling just short in each. Along with Super Saver, he is again expected to be near the front in the Haskell. Dominguez stays aboard for trainer Dale Romans.

“He was doing great before the Belmont and he’s doing just as well heading into this race,” said Romans, who will saddle his first Haskell starter. “I think he moved forward off of (the Triple Crown races).”

Undefeated in four starts this season for Kiaran McLaughlin, Mill House’s Trappe Shot is the buzz horse coming into the Haskell. The Tapit http://www.stallionregister.com/sr_sire_page.asp?refno=6106474&origin=BHonline http://www.equineline.com/dotReportProductSelectionDisplay.cfm?horse_name=Tapit&YOB=2001&breed_type=TB&horse_type=I&ASCID=1443262 colt overcame a poor start to win the Long Branch Stakes by 2 1/2 lengths on July 10 at Monmouth in his stakes debut and his first try at two turns. He will attempt to become the first horse to win both the Long Branch and the Haskell since Lion Heart http://www.stallionregister.com/sr_sire_page.asp?refno=6087846&origin=BHonline http://www.equineline.com/dotReportProductSelectionDisplay.cfm?horse_name=Lion+Heart&YOB=2001&breed_type=TB&horse_type=I&ASCID=1443262 did it in 2004. Alan Garcia will be in the irons once again on the co-second choice.

“He is the ‘now’ horse,” said McLaughlin, “and he’s won four in a row. But he’s never run against grade I horses. We know he likes the track and he should handle the distance. But the competition is different. There are a few proven horses in there.”

Rounding out the field are Zito’s other entrant, Our Dark Knight http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/thoroughbred/our-dark-knight/2007?source=BHonline , a three-length allowance winner at Monmouth June 19 making his stakes debut; Uptowncharlybrown http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/thoroughbred/uptowncharlybrown/2007?source=BHonline , who was fifth in the Belmont and is also trained by McLaughlin; and the only member of the field stabled locally, Afleet Again http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/thoroughbred/afleet-again/2007?source=BHonline , most recently a hard-closing second in June 19 Pegasus (gr. III).

Harrah’s Completes Purchase of Thistledown

Harrah’s Entertainment said July 28 it has completed its purchase of Thistledown near Cleveland, Ohio, from MI Developments.

Harrah’s, which has other racetrack holdings in the United States, purchased Thistledown for about $43 million at auction in May. In 2009, the gaming company obtained an option to buy the track for $89.5 million, but the option had expired.

Harrah’s is expected to be involved in operation of at least one full-scale casino in Ohio. Four such casinos were authorized in a 2009 statewide referendum.

No immediate changes are expected at Thistledown, which will host the grade III Ohio Derby July 31. The track could be in line for video lottery terminals pending a court ruling.

The purchase of Thistledown is considered largely strategic, though Harrah’s indicated a desire to continue live racing.

“With this acquisition, Harrah’s Entertainment looks forward to enhancing the guest experience at Thistledown–through continuing the long history of Thoroughbred racing and providing our support for the Ohio Lottery’s efforts to bring video lottery terminals to the track,” Peter Murphy, president of strategy and development for Harrah’s, said in a statement. “Harrah’s has a long history of maintaining high standards in the gaming industry. We look forward to continuing our commitment to our guests, employees, and the community in this new Cleveland operation.”

Thistledown is the second Ohio track to be sold this year. Penn National Gaming Inc., which plans to build casinos in Columbus and Toledo, Ohio, purchased Beulah Park.

Simulcasting Calendar for

this Weekend at The Park!

Saturday, August 21st

10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

$2 Breakfast Special

featuring Pancakes, Eggs, and Sausage

So come early, and do some handicapping while eating breakfast at the Park.

Quarter Horse Racing continues at Sam Houston Thursday, Friday and Saturday this week

123 Racing Wager is now available at Sam Houston Race Park! For more info please visit www.shrp.com http://www.shrp.com/ or www.123racing.info http://www.123racing.info/

Friday, July 30th

$35,000 Ancira Ford Classic Stakes (GIII) from Sam Houston Race Park

$30,000 Barnmaster Sprint Stakes (GIII) from Sam Houston Race Park

$30,000 Gulf Coast 4 Star Trailer 550 Stakes (GIII) from Sam Houston Race Park

$15,000 Jones Bloodstock Ins. Starter Stakes from Sam Houston Race Park

Opening Day from Hoosier Park (TB Meet)

$125,000 Cougar II Handicap (GIII) from Del Mar

$100,000 John Franks Memorial Sales Stakes from Evangeline Downs

$100,000 Jennie Wade Handicap from Penn National

Saturday, July 31st

$35,000 added Adequan Texas Derby Challenge Stakes (GIII) from Sam Houston Race Park

$100,000 added TQHA Sale Futurity (GI) from Sam Houston Race Park

$100,000 Fleet Treat Stakes from Del Mar

$100,000 San Diego Handicap (GII) from Del Mar

$100,000 Mongo Queen Stakes from Monmouth Park

$200,000 PA Governor’s Cup Stakes from Penn National

$500,000 Diana Stakes (GI) from Saratoga

$500,000 Jim Dandy Stakes (GII) from Saratoga

$100,000 Ohio Derby (GIII) from Thistledown

$150,000 Vandal Stakes from Woodbine

Sunday, August 1st

$250,000 Bing Crosby Stakes (GI) from Del Mar

$1,000,000 Haskell Invitational Stakes (GI) from Monmouth Park

$150,000 Jersey Derby from Monmouth Park

$150,000 Majestic Light Stakes from Monmouth Park

$200,000 Oceanport Stakes from Monmouth Park

$150,000 Regret Stakes from Monmouth Park

$200,000 Taylor Made Matchmaker Stakes (GIII) from Monmouth Park

$150,000 Teddy Drone Stakes from Monmouth Park

$200,000 Rio Grande Senor Futurity from Ruidoso Downs

$200,000 Rio Grande Senorita Futurity from Ruidoso Downs

$150,000 Zia Derby (GII) from Ruidoso Downs

$400,000 Zia Futurity (GI) from Ruidoso Downs

$150,000 Fourstardave Handicap (GII) from Saratoga

$250,000 Ruffian Handicap (GI) from Saratoga

$250,000 Wonder Where Stakes from Woodbine

Feature Simulcast Races for August

Monday, August 2nd- $150,000 Amsterdam Stakes (GII) from Saratoga

Monday, August 2nd- $150,000 Royal North Stakes from Woodbine

Wednesday, August 4th- $100,000 Graduation Stakes from Del Mar

Wednesday, August 4th- $125,000 Shepperton Stakes from Woodbine

Friday, August 6th- $150,000 Sorrento Stakes (GIII) from Del Mar

Saturday, August 7th- $300,000 Clement L. Hirsch Stakes (GI) from Del Mar

Saturday, August 7th- $1,500,000 Hambletonian from The Meadowlands

Saturday, August 7th- $100,000 Colleen Stakes from Monmouth Park

Saturday, August 7th- $100,000 My Frenchman Stakes from Monmouth Park

Saturday, August 7th- $110,000 Harvey Arneault Memorial Stakes from Mountaineer

Saturday, August 7th- $750,000 West Virginia Derby (GII) from Mountaineer

Saturday, August 7th- $125,000 West Virginia Governor’s Stakes from Mountaineer

Saturday, August 7th- $110,000 West Virginia Senate President’s Stakes from Mountaineer

Saturday, August 7th- $75,000 John Deere NM Juvenile Challenge Stakes from Ruidoso Downs

Saturday, August 7th- $250,000 Test Stakes (GI) from Saratoga

Saturday, August 7th- $750,000 Whitney Handicap (GI) from Saratoga

Saturday, August 7th- $150,000 Duchess Stakes from Woodbine

Sunday, August 8th- $150,000 Best Pal Stakes (GII) from Del Mar

Sunday, August 8th- $100,000 Select Stakes from Monmouth Park

Sunday, August 8th- $250,000 Alfred G. Vanderbilt Handicap (GI) from Saratoga

Sunday, August 8th- $150,000 Honorable Miss Handicap (GII) from Saratoga

Sunday, August 8th- $125,000 Nandi Stakes from Woodbine

Sunday, August 8th- $150,000 Seagram Cup Stakes from Woodbine

Opening Days in August

August 14

Albuquerque

August 19

Remington Park (TB)

August 25

Golden Gate Fields

August 27

Timonium

**All simulcasting tracks subject to the approval of the TXRC.

Super Hi Five Wagers Available at Sam Houston Race Park

Friday night’s stakes races feature the $15,000 + Jones Bloodstock Insurance Starter Stakes showcasing Texas-bred Quarter Horses three years of age and up racing a distance of 350 yards; $30,000 + Gulf Coast 4 Star Trailer “550″ Stakes (RG3) with 3-year-old Texas-bred horses and older running 550 yards; $35,000 + Ancira Ford Classic showcasing 3-year-old Texas-bred horses and up racing 400 yards; and the $30,000 + Barnmaster Sprint Stakes (RG3) will feature Texas-bred horses three years of age and up sprinting a distance of 250 yards.

Saturday night’s race card features the highly anticipated $400,000 TQHA Sale Futurity featuring 2-year-old Quarter Horses which passed through the 2009 TQHA Yearling Sale Ring, qualified and remain eligible for the race. The 350-yard sprint will showcase Jazzy Sixes who was the fastest qualifier from the trials held at The Park on July 16. Jazzy Sixes has a winning combination behind him with trainer Tooter Jordan and jockey Rodrigo Sigala Vallejo both making their way into The Park’s top five in their respective fields.

“You can’t really ask for a better start,” commented Jordan. “We’re very pleased with how well he’s come out and won both starts here at Sam Houston and we expect him to keep getting better with each race.”

The remainder of the 10-horse field features: Gols Honey Money Pop, Jakes Charming Jody, Eyza It, Fettish, MCM Shes Oceans Away, BB Azoom, Brimmies Alli Bi B, Executive Precision and Endless Ocean.

Also featured on Saturday’s live race card will be the $62,730 Adequan Texas Derby Challenge (G3). The Adequan Texas Derby Challenge will showcase 3-year-old Quarter Horses racing a distance of 400 yards. The favorite is Diamond For Jess (5-2), who is solid, winning two of only five starts at The Park. The 3-year-old gelding is trained by R.L. Rick Robinson and will be ridden by jockey Luis Ramirez.

The remainder of the 10-horse field will feature: GJR Snowman, JA Call Collect, Get Down Boy, Golly Zee, Ms Riptide, Nancys Ocean, Azoomin With Jessie, Shazooms Golden Boy and Hotlittlechica.

In addition to live racing this weekend, The Park will host Party on the Patio BBQ Bash featuring general admission and a BBQ plate with choice of (2) meats, potato salad and baked beans for $15 per person, along with $2 draft beer from 4 – 8 p.m.

The Verizon Wireless Summer Concert Series on the Bud Light stage hosts a concert from Luke Bryan and Whiskey Myers presented by The New 93Q immediately following live racing events. Tickets start at $15 and provide FREE admission to live racing. For more information, visit www.theshowgrounds.com http://www.theshowgrounds.com/ .

The Texas Quarter Horse Association began in 1978 and is the largest American Quarter Horse affiliate. We are located in Austin, Texas and have a full-time staff of eight that run two divisions: Racing and Halter & Performance. Current membership is over 2,500 horse enthusiasts.s

Sam Houston Race Park is Houston’s premier racing and entertainment facility, located just 15 minutes from downtown Houston, and offers a variety of attractions including 19 luxury suites overlooking the race track, The Pavilion Centre, outstanding dining options at the Winner’s Circle Restaurant and the Champion Energy Services Jockey Club. Live Quarter Horse racing continues every Thursday, Friday and Saturday through August 14 at Sam Houston Race Park. For more information on upcoming events and tickets, please visit www.shrp.com http://www.shrp.com/ .

Sam Houston Race Park

TQHA Sale Futurity Trial Results

Trials:

Friday, July 16, 2010

Final:

Saturday, July 31, 2010

Two-Year Olds racing 350 Yards

Horse

Jockey

Trainer

Qualifying Time

JAZZY SIXES

RODRIGO SIGALA VALLEJO

J.R. TOOTER JORDAN

17.565

BB AZOOM

J.R. RAMIREZ

PAUL RAMIREZ

17.653

GOLS HONEY MONEY POP

J.R. RAMIREZ

JORGE HADDAD

17.686

FETTISH

DAVID A. ALVAREZ

ROBERT J. BOBBY TOUCHET

17.759

MCM SHES OCEANS AWAY

JERRY LEE YOAKUM

C. DWAYNE GILBREATH

17.76

ENDLESS OCEAN

SANTOS CARRIZALES

JAVIER NOEL CONTRERAS

17.776

EXECUTIVE PRECISION

GILBERT ORTIZ

M. HEATH TAYLOR

17.779

JAKES CHARMING JODY

J.R. RAMIREZ

JORGE HADDAD

17.782

EYZA IT

DAVID A. ALVAREZ

ROBERT J. BOBBY TOUCHET

17.795

BRIMMIES ALLI BI B

JIMMY DEAN BROOKS

EDDIE D. WILLIS

17.893

*Track Record: Hotdiggin :17.360 (July 27, 2001)

Live racing has been on hiatus in Maryland since May 22 at the conclusion of the Pimlico Race Course spring stand.

“The trainers are excited that we are back. It has been 10 weeks and they are tired of shipping out of town,” said Maryland Jockey Club racing secretary Georganne Hale. “Since our purses are so much smaller than the rest of the mid-Atlantic, the only way we can compete for out of towners is to utilize the turf course, which hasn’t been used since April. Delaware Park, Penn National and Philadelphia Park have been beat up because they have been using theirs all spring and summer, so we have to take advantage.”

The mini-meet, which will conclude Sunday, August 22, features promotions each afternoon.

Friday Night Starters

Post Time 3:35 p.m.

Twilight Racing with Happy Hour Specials & Free Admission

Food and drink specials from 3:30-7 p.m., featuring $4 appetizers and $2 frozen drinks, drafts and wine

Foosball, Air Hockey and Darts in the Horse Wizard Room

Jockey Of The Day Drafts

Rody Races

August 6

Live Music with Qi-Lo

Charm City Trivia

August 13

Live Music with D’Vibe & Conga

Karaoke

August 20

Live Music with Willies Light

Charm City Trivia

Sizzlin’ Saturdays

Post Time 1:10 p.m.

BBQs on the Clubhouse Apron

$5 plate includes sandwich and two sides

$2 frozen drink, beer and wine deals

July 31

Opening Day prizes – sports & crab feast tix, a Weber Grill & more

Live Music with Sons of the Radio

August 7

Novice Handicapping Tournament

Live Music with Detour

August 14

Live Music with Sons of the Radio

August 21

Crab Feast

Live Music with Mama Jama

Sunday Brunch Jazz Days

Post Time 1:10 p.m.

A buffet with complimentary champagne and live jazz – $24.95 (11:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m.)

August 1 & 15

Live Music with Rob Levit

August 8 & 22

Live Music with Gail Marten

“We have made it a priority to attract new customers,” said Maryland Jockey Club president Tom Chuckas. “Having such things as live music with happy hour specials and a novice handicapping tournament are helping us take a step in the right direction.”

The stand will include Maryland-bred stakes races on August 14 (Jameela) and August 21 (Mister Diz).

At the conclusion of the meet, live racing shifts to Timonium for a seven-day state fair stand. The Laurel Park fall meeting will begin after the Labor Day holiday.

With Inoel Beato riding his first stakes winner at Emerald Downs, Newfound Man led all the way and held Posse Power for a head victory in the 34th running of the Seattle Slew.

The winner ran one mile and one-sixteenth in 1:41 4/5 and paid $7.60, $3.60 and $2.80. Blaine Wright*celebrating his 36th birthday with a three-win day*is the trainer for owners John and Janene Maryasnki of Auburn.

Newfound Man set fractions of :23, :46 2/5, 1:10 1/5 and 1:35 1/5 en route to victory. The Newfoundland gelding entered the lane with a 1-½ length lead on Posse Power and gamely fended off the 9-to-5 betting favorite, who was slowly gaining on the winner.

Posse Power, ridden by Francisco Duran, suffered his second straight heartbreaker and paid $2.60 and $2.20. The Texas-bred colt has raced three times at Emerald Downs, all in stakes, and has a win and two seconds*dropping a nose decision to Koala Beach in the Pepsi-Cola Handicap, and a head decision to Newfound Man in the Seattle Slew.

It was 3 ¼ lengths back to 17-to-1 long shot Saratoga Boot in third place. Ridden by Kevin Krigger, Saratoga Boot paid $5.60.

Mr. Mad Max finished fourth, followed by Silk Street, Koala Beach and Cyber Bell. Koala Beach, the second choice at 9-to-5, pressed the pace set by Newfound Man for six furlongs and gave way in the stretch.

A $36,000 purchase at the 2008 Washington September Yearling Sale, Newfound Man has a 3-0-1 record in five starts with earnings of $55,538. He has three wins in four starts at Emerald Downs, the only loss a close third to Koala Beach and Posse Power in the June 27 Pepsi-Cola at one mile.

Beato, a 23-year-old Domincan, said the strategy was simple*send Newfound Man to the lead.

“Before the race, I really thought that I would get the lead,” he said. “My horse ran easy in the front. In the last eighth of a mile, he responded really well.

“He likes to go head-to-head,” Beato added. “In his last stakes race, he would look around too much. Today he was more focused.”

Wright, recording his third stakes win at Emerald Downs, made an equipment change by taking blinkers off Newfound Man.

Duran has ridden Posse Power in all three local starts and said the colt tried hard.

“The plan was to save ground and make one run for the win,” Duran said. “He was fresh and ready to go. I couldn’t go anywhere on the inside.

“I had no choice but to swing wide in the final turn. I hoped that by saving ground in the first turn that it would compensate for losing ground in the last turn. I really thought I was going to win. He was giving his all the whole way down the stretch.”

The first-place check to Newfound Man and the Mayanskis was worth $27,500.

The division championship might be on the line when the 3-year-ols reconvene for the $75,000 Emerald Downs Derby at a mile and one-eighth on Sunday, Aug. 15.

NOTES: Jersey Town ($6.60) made a sharp first impression at Emerald Downs with a three-quarter-length victory over He’s All Heart in the $20,000 co-feature for older sprinters in 1:15 3/5 for 6 ½ furlongs. Last seen finishing second to Winning Machine in the 2009 BC Derby at Hastings Racecourse, Jersey Town, a 4-year-old Kentucky-bred by Speightstown, has a 4-3-0 record in eight starts with earnings of $149,001 for owner-breeder Charles Fipke*The victory by Jersey Town capped a three-win day for trainer Tim McCanna, and the nine-time leading trainer tied Frank Lucarelli for second at 38 wins apiece. Vann Belvoir leads with 39 wins*Combined, McCanna and Wright saddled six of 10 winners on the card*Leading rider Ricky Frazier blanked Sunday but finished Week 15 with a 72-58 cushion over Juan Gutierrez*Kevin Krigger rode three winners and Gallyn Mitchell had two wins, including the track record 17th victory by West Seattle Boy ($8.20) in the fifth race*Two horses were claimed for $30,000 each from Sunday’s first race for 2-year-olds. Runner-up Good Knight Matty was taken by trainer Jim Penney for owner Grasshopper Stable and third-place finisher Mutiny Bay was claimed by Lucarelli for owner David P. Taylor*Live racing resumes Thursday at 6 p.m*Emerald Downs is open for simulcast wagering Wednesday to Sunday.

The 11-year-old gelding, who won his career debut way back on June 3, 2001, had been tied with Market Master and Bob Stories for the top spot with 16 wins each.

Fittingly, Emerald Downs’ all-time leading jockey Gallyn Mitchell rode West Seattle Boy to the record-breaking victory.

“He’s a pleasure to ride, gives it his best every time,” said Mitchell, winner of 1,221 races at Emerald Downs. “I was glad to be a part of this.”

West Seattle Boy ran one mile in 1:36 3/5 and paid $10.20 for a $2 win ticket.

The gelding gradually worked his way forward, raced wide into the lane and wore down Havin a Good Day in the closing yards for a half-length victory. It was his second victory of the meeting, both at the $3,500 claiming level.

Owners Lisa Baze of Auburn and Jerry Carmody of Ravensdale were presented with a special blanket commemorating their horse’s remarkable achievement. Trainer Rigoberto Velasquez said West Seattle Boy will “probably race another couple of years.”

A Washington-bred by Majesterian-Pancho’s Girl, West Seattle Boy has won 17-of-76 starts at Emerald Downs and is 5-for-16 at Portland Meadows. It adds up to a 22-for-92 overall mark with earnings of $162,962. West Seattle Boy has had five different trainers*Velasquez has had him for 13 wins*and been ridden by 18 different jockeys.

The stakes doubleheader features the $50,000 Mt. Rainier Handicap for older horses at one and one-eighth miles, and the $50,000 Boeing Handicap for older fillies and mares at one and one-sixteenth miles. The latter stakes is the final tune-up for fillies and mares on the road to the $75,000 Emerald Distaff, also on Aug. 22.

The Mt. Rainier has accomplished what it was designed to do. In fact, history says it’s a good bet the Mt. Rainier winner will also prevail in The Mile. Assessment (2009), The Great Face (2007) and Flamethrowintexan (2006) all swept the Mt. Rainer and Longacres Mile en route to Horse of the Meeting honors. And in 2008, Wasserman missed by a head to Chhaya Dance in the Mt. Rainier before posting his stunning upset in the Longacres Mile.

Assessment, back in form after a 6-to-1 score over Noosa Beach in the July 11 Governor’s Handicap, and Wasserman, who just became the all-time leading earner in races at Washington tracks, are back for another crack in the Mt. Rainier. Noosa Beach, the early favorite for Horse of the Meeting, lost little in the Governor’s defeat. The 4-year-old has had a brilliant campaign that includes victories in the Seattle and Budweiser handicaps.

The 2009 Boeing produced the first dead-heat for win in an Emerald Downs stakes race, as Elusive Horizon and Holy Nova hit the wire as a team.

Veterans Clair Annette and Gadget Queen will be formidable in the Boeing. A triple stakes winner at Emerald Downs, 7-year-old scored a 5 ½-length gate-to-wire victory in the July 4 King County Handicap. Gadget Queen, a 6-year-old, has finished first, second or third in eight stakes at Emerald Downs, including victories in the 2009 Washington State Legislators Stakes and 2008 Belle Roberts Handicap. Cliff’s Secret, on the other hand, is a 4-year-old filly nominated to her first stakes after three straight victories in claiming races.

Mt. Rainier Handicap*3&Up*1 1/8 Miles*15th Running Nominee Owner Trainer Assessment (6-KY) Tice Ranch Stables LLC Howard Belvoir Dixie Meister (8-TX) Johanna Louise Glen-Teven Michael Puhich Gallon (5-KY) Michael & Amy Feuerborn Jim Penney Lowther Street (5-KY) Swift Thoroughbreds Inc. Dino Condilenios Noosa Beach (4-WA) Jeff Harwood Doris Harwood Rooster City (4-KY) Victor G. Bahna Jr. Tim McCanna Senor Rojo (4-KY) Tres Hombres David Forster Wasserman (8-WA) Howard Belvoir Howard Belvoir

Boeing Handicap*3&Up F&M*1 1/16 Miles*15th Running Nominee Owner Trainer Barbara’s Love (5-CA) L.T.D. Stable John Holmes Clair Annette (7-WA) Nina Egbert Connie Bouslaugh Cliff’s Secret (4-KY) Michael & Amy Feuerborn Jim Penney Gadget Queen (6-WA) John & Janene Maryanski Blaine Wright Kimmyv (4-KY) Swift Thoroughbreds Inc. Dino Condilenios Perfect Finish (4-WA) Howard Belvoir Howard Belvoir Pretty Katherine (4-ONT)DeBrgh/Sikura/Hdrfr/Todaro Jerry Hollendorfer

Shakopee, MN — Trainer Michael Maker and owners Kenneth and Sarah Ramsey shipped two horses to the Claiming Crown from their Churchill Downs home base, and they will leave Minnesota with two impressive victories. Just a half-hour after Inca King captured the Claiming Crown Emerald, Headache won the day’s featured event, the $150,000 Claiming Crown Jewel before a crowd of 11,473.

Under Eclipse Award-winning rider Julien Leparoux, Headache settled at the rear of the pack as the field of six made their way down the backstretch through moderate fractions of :24.19 for the quarter and :48.06 for the half. Leparoux was then forced to take the overland route, but still had enough horse to run down pacesetter Smarten Destiny by a neck at the wire. Strike Impact finished third, a length behind Smarten Destiny. The 7-5 race favorite Racing Bran tired to fifth after stalking the early pace.

“He’s the kind of horse you have to wait with and then go, and that’s what he did today, said Leparoux. “It’s a lot of fun.”

Sent off as the 9-5 second choice, Headache came into the Jewel off seven consecutive losing efforts at the nonwinners-of-two-other-than allowance level at Gulfstream Park, Keeneland and Churchill Downs.

“I love this horse,” said Kenneth Ramsey, “but he had given me plenty of headaches running second, second, second so many times. Today Julien got him home, though.”

The two training wins for trainer Michael Maker gave him seven Claiming Crown wins for his career-all since 2007. Maker is now just one win behind Scott Lake in the all-time Claiming Crown trainer standings.

Headache paid $5.60 to win, $3.60 to place and $3.60 to show. Smarten Destiny, a 13-1 proposition, paid $8.80 to place and $10.20 to show. Strike Impact returned $7.20 to show. Heavy show betting on the favored Racing Bran accounted for the odd show prices. Final time for the mile-and-one-eighth was 1:50.11.

In the day’s other top events:

$50,000 Claiming Crown Iron Horse Roaring Home got the Claiming Crown off to a rousing beginning with a wire-to-wire, 3/4-length score for owner Maggi Moss and trainer Chris Richard. “We were able to make the lead, set an easy pace, and in the stretch, I still had a lot of horse,” said winning rider Daniel Centeno, who picked up the mount only after rider Chris Emigh was unable to make his travel connections to Minneapolis from Chicago. The 7-year-old, claimed for $12,000 out of his last start on July 2 at Prairie Meadows, is now 10-for-37 lifetime. Roaring Home $8.60 to his backers for a $2.00 win bet. The 2-5 race favorite, Sea Gaze, closed belatedly for second, 8 1-4 lengths ahead of longshot Benson, who captured third in the Iron Horse for a second straight year.

$50,000 Claiming Crown Express Moralist, the 4-5 favorite, survived a protracted speed duel with Esperamos, and held off the late challenge of Thegreatcrosby to take the Express by a length in 1:09.92. Rider Israel Ocampo, a late substitute for Shane Sellers who was stuck en route from Chicago to Minneapolis, kept Moralist just outside Esperamos through fractions of 21.65 for the quarter and 44.07 for the half. “I’m still shaking,” said winning trainer Tammy Domenosky. “This is very, very exciting to win. It’s a great feeling.” Moralist paid $3.80 to win. Churubusco closed late to take third by a nose from Prognosis Negative.

$75,000 Claiming Crown Glass Slipper My Irish Girl won for the sixth straight time today, closing from well back to take the Express by a length and a half over Margie Marie. Longshot Lil Dish set enterprising fractions of 21.91 for the quarter and 44.71 for the half, followed closely by Margie Marie. But those fractions took their toll, setting the table for My Irish Girl’s powerful late move under Israel Ocampo, who was in the process of winning his second Claiming Crown race of the day. The winner, a 3-year-old, is trained by Jamie Ness for Midwest Thoroughbreds. Final time for the six furlongs was 1:09.92. “We looked at all the speed in the race, and Jamie decided we should take her back and make one run. She’s the Claimer of the Year for me. She’s really nice.” Margie Marie was second, a length and a quarter ahead of Hawaiian Sky, who closed belatedly for third. The 9-5 favorite, My Irish Girl returned $5.80 for a $2 win bet.

$75,000 Claiming Crown Rapid Transit Humble Smarty tracked the early pace of Max Ahead from the outside, then assumed command in midstretch to take the Rapid Transit by three quarters of a length over 16-1 longshot Red Pete, who closed up the rail from fourth. Max Ahead held on for third, three-quarters of a length behind Red Pete. Final time for the six furlongs was 1:09.57. “He’s been really good to me-he deserves this,” said Brett Creighton, who owns and trains the 6-year-old gelding. Humble Smarty has now won six of his last eight starts with second-place finishes accounting for the other two performances. “He ran a really big race,” said winning rider Alex Birzer. “Brett did a really good job getting him ready.” The 5-2 second choice, Humble Smarty paid $7.00 to win. The 2-1 race favorite, Sweeten With Gold, finished fourth.

$100,000 Claiming Crown Emerald Inca King benefited from a masterful ride by Eclipse Award-winning rider Julien Leparoux to score a 1 ¼-length win in the Emerald for trainer Michael Maker and owners Kenneth and Sarah Ramsey. Inca King, the heavy 1-2 favorite, stalked from fourth, saving ground all the way until the top of the stretch when Leparoux swung him out to run down Tiger Lake, who had lost valuable ground going three-wide on the final turn. Longshot Elusive Schemes finished third, just a nose behind Tiger Lake. “They made us work for it,” said Kenneth Ramsey. “That Julien is something else. It’s quite an honor to win up here at Canterbury.” Inca King, a 6-year-old gelding who ran third last time out in the Grade II Firecracker Handicap on July 4 at Churchill Downs, paid $3.00 to win.

$100,000 Lady Canterbury Stakes After the final Claiming Crown event of the day, Canterbury Park fans were treated to a thrilling renewal of the $100,000 Lady Canterbury Stakes run at one mile for fillies and mares on the turf. Never Retreat, under Chicago-based Shane Sellers, held on for a three-quarter-length victory over the hard charging 3-2 favorite Danzon to score a mild upset at 7-2 for trainer Chris Block. Owned by Team Block, Never Retreat closed three-wide from seventh around the far turn, took command in midsretch, and held off Danzon, who was ridden by Julien Leparoux. For Sellers, it was a happy ending to a frustrating day. Travel delays from Chicago had caused him to arrive late to Canterbury, costing him the mounts on two eventual winners. “I have to give my agent credit, because he obviously put me on some nice horses. I was on the best horse today in this race. You hate to go wide, but the other horses tired in front of me.” Never Retreat paid $9.40 to win. Behind Danzon, the order of finish was completed by War Tigress, Afleet Deceit, Dancin Perfect, Mizzcan’tbewrong, Ansong, Wine Diva, Closeout and Whenthetimeisright.

Wagering handle for the seven Claiming Crown races was $1,593,203.