THECARTELOFMIRACLE VICTORIOUS IN THE $20,000 SAM HOUSTON STAKES
Sam Houston Race Park hosted a Star Wars Celebration on Friday, May 4 and the “force” was definitely with Thecartelofmiracle who dominated his rivals in the $20,000 Sam Houston Stakes.
Owned by Mauro Luciano Villarreal the gelded son of Tough and Good out of the Gold Medal Jess mare Its Jess A Miracle was making his second start of 2018, He greatly improved his effort from April 13 when he ran second in trials for the $191,900 Sam Houston Derby. Trainer Abel Flores, Jr. stated earlier this week that his charge had needed that race as he had been turned out following his victory in the $874,000 Texas Classic Futurity (G1) last November at Lone Star Park.
Jockey Manuel Gutierrez had the return call, and guided Thecartelofmiracle from the seven post, drawing off by one length in front of Desdemona Rambler. He crossed the wire of the 350 yards feature in :17.567 seconds over a fast track.
Desdemona Rambler, owned by Dan Grube and trained by Gilbert Aguirre, III ran a game second under rider Juan Garcia, Jr. The 4-year-old son of Tempting Dash shortened up from the 550-yard Harris County stakes on March 31, when he finished fourth. He earned $4,000 for his runner-up finish this evening.
Trainer Jimmy Padgett had two entrants in the Sam Houston Stakes and Get There rallied for third with Noe Villatoro in the irons. Bred in California and owned by JCJ Racing Stable, the 4-year-old daughter of Fantastic Corona Jr. shipped in from Remington Park. Mighty Corona Jr. completed the superfecta, followed by One Sweet Picky, Sir Edward L Perry, Flash of Love and Bellissima Chocolata. Jess Gone Streakin and Blazin Moon Force were early scratches.
Thecartelofmiracle was sent off as the 3-5 favorite and paid $3.40 for the win, his fifth career tally. His winner’s share of $12,000 increased his career bankroll to $432,059.
Live racing continues Saturday, May 5 with a special matinee post of 1:00 pm so that fans can enjoy live Quarter Horse racing and the simulcast of the 144th Kentucky Derby from Churchill Downs.
Sam Houston Race Park, Houston’s premier racing and entertainment facility, is located just 15 miles from downtown Houston, and offers a variety of attractions including 16 luxury suites overlooking the race track, The Pavilion Centre, and award-winning dining options at the Winner’s Circle Restaurant and Jockey Club. For more information on upcoming shows, events and tickets, please visit www.shrp.com.
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