Live Racing Thursday, Friday & Saturday
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
