Douglas Scharbuaer, Jr.’s homebred Raise the Bar dominated the field in the David E. Hooper Stakes after gaining command in the opening quarter-mile.  He pulled well clear in upper stretch and continued powerfully to the winning post, stopping the clock for 1:22.40 for seven furlongs over a fast track.  Jockey Stewart Elliott was aboard for the winning ride.
The son of Maclean’s Music was making his Texas-bred stake debut for Hall of Famer Steve Asmussen after missing by a nose in a local prep last month.  He had shown ample early speed since his debut, which he won in April of 2024 at Keeneland. 
“We figured there was some speed in there, but he pulled me right up into it so I left him alone,” Elliott said.  “He actually got better as he went, so he made me feel like we had a really good chance.”
Raise the Bar contested the pace alongside Too Much Action, who broke quickly and showed early interest.  The pair was still together approaching the quarter pole before Raise the Bar repelled him with ease.  By that point, the late runners had hit their stride, with Turn North unleashing a rally.  Raise the Bar remained unchallenged, opening an insurmountable lead with a final margin of five lengths.
The Hooper field was replete with Texas-bred stakes veterans, including Texas Thoroughbred Association Derby and Star of Texas winner Victory for Vets as well as prior David E. Hooper victor Too Much Action.  Many of them will face off again on Texas Champions Day March 21 at Sam Houston Race Park.
Turn North wound up second with Golden Grit checking in third.  The field was completed in order by TX Code, Too Much Action, Victory for Vets, Mikel W, Team Gormley and Mr Jaws.
The final race on the Texas Preview Day program, the Sunlit Song Turf Stakes, was cancelled due to weather.  It will be re-carded for Sunday, February 22.

About Sam Houston Race Park
Sam Houston Race Park is Houston’s premier racing and entertainment facility, located just 15 miles northwest of downtown Houston. Owned by Penn Entertainment Inc. (NASDAQ – PENN), the racetrack, which opened in 1994, offers a variety of attractions for businesses, group outings and families during racing and the off-season. The track is best known for its award-winning dining and features multiple areas for fans looking for casual to upscale dining options including its Winner’s Circle Restaurant, Jockey Club, Luxury Suites and Pavilion Centre. For more information or tickets to upcoming live racing, concerts and events, please visit www.shrp.com or follow on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok or YouTube.