SAM HOUSTON RACE PARK QUARTER HORSE MEET ENDS ON HIGH NOTE WITH NINE STAKES RACES AND HANDLE INCREASE
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june 14, 2026
press release
SAM HOUSTON RACE PARK QUARTER HORSE MEET ENDS ON HIGH NOTE WITH NINE STAKES RACES AND HANDLE INCREASE
HOUSTON, TX– Saturday, June 13 marked the conclusion of the 2026 Sam Houston Race Park live Quarter Horse meet, with nearly $1.4 million in purse money distributed across nine stakes races and a strong finish at the wagering windows.
The final weekend generated $1,830,792 in total wagering, a 16.4% increase from the $1,572,683 wagered during the comparable three-day period in 2025. Off-track wagering accounted for $1,575,472, up 24.9% from $1,261,289 a year ago, while on-track wagering totaled $255,320. Friday's on-track handle rose 27.9% to $61,972, compared with $48,442 in 2025, and Saturday's closing-night card led the weekend with $154,908 in live wagering.
The meet's leading trainer title went to Jose Sanchez III, who topped all conditioners with 19 victories. Sunset Well Service, Inc. led all owners with seven wins during the Quarter Horse season, while Luis Vivanco secured leading rider honors with 39 victories. DK Bonita Jess finished as the meet's leading money earner, banking $268,040 following her victory in the Sam Houston Futurity (G2).
"The evening was chock-full of fast horses and quality competition. One of the most competitive quarter horse Stakes cards that I've seen in some time. It was a wildly successful and unpredictable evening with multiple winners paying over $20 to win," said Sam Houston Racing Secretary, Mike Acton.
Headlined by the $655,100 Sam Houston Futurity (G2), $234,050 Sam Houston Derby (G3), and inaugural $176,250 Sam Houston Oaks, the closing-night stakes program created a championship atmosphere as Texas-breds competed for some of the richest purses of the season.
A series of standout performances highlighted the card, led by DK Bonita Jess's nose victory in the Sam Houston Futurity (G2) and Eagle On A June Bug's first career stakes score in the Sam Houston Derby (G3). Karma Cha Ching upset a talented field in the inaugural Sam Houston Oaks, while veteran distance specialist Eye Will Decide reclaimed the Jesse Yoakum Memorial 870 Stakes (G3), his second victory in the race following a win in 2023.
Determined earned his first black-type victory in the Sam Houston 550 Stakes (G3), Fabulous Casina captured the Sam Houston 250 Stakes, Celebratingtheeagle broke through for her first stakes triumph in the Miss Sam Houston Stakes, Kas Prietito notched his second consecutive stakes win in the Willie Hickman Memorial Stakes (G2), and Louisiana Mystery prevailed by a nose in the Governors Cup Marathon Stakes (G3).
"Everyone came to run and it showed! I am looking forward to seeing many of these horses run at Retama Park along with future stars that may have yet to emerge," Acton concluded.
The festive atmosphere extended beyond the racetrack as fans enjoyed the popular Shoppa's Lawn Mower Races and a Whiskey Tasting event. Hayden Gula claimed top honors in the lawn mower race after taking command early along the inside, adding another memorable moment to the meet's closing-night celebration.
$55,000 JESSE YOAKUM MEMORIAL 870 STAKES (G3)
Eye Will Decide kicked off the evening's stakes action with a bang, reclaiming the Jesse Yoakum Memorial 870 Stakes for the second time in his career with a commanding five-length victory. After winning the race in 2023 and finishing second in both 2024 and 2025, the veteran gelding left little doubt in 2026, covering 870 yards in :45.492 while facing a 10 mph headwind.
Breaking from the rail, the Adan Guzman-trained gelding controlled the pace throughout before drawing away in the stretch. Eye Will Decide, piloted by Noe Villatoro, clocked a 101 speed index with the effort.
Bred and owned by Byron Gardner, the eight-year-old son of Majestic Cartel is out of the stakes-winning Valiant Hero mare Valiant Lil Lady. The victory was the seventh of his career from 33 starts and increased his bankroll to $234,142 after earning the $33,000 winner's share of the purse. Eye Will Decide is a three-time stakes winner whose victories include the San Marcos Stakes.
Last year’s defending champion, Master Reigns, finished second under Raul Hernandez Jr. for owner Bronc Richard Hawkins and trainer Marc Jungers. The 7-year-old gelding bred by Richard Hawkins is by Dash Master Jess and out of the He Will Reign mare Dancee Reigns. He now sports a record of 6-6-5 from 37 starts with earnings of $159,853.
Post-time favorite GJR Rooster completed the trifecta under Gilberto Linares for owners Richard Young, Joe David Yates, and Zack Stinebaugh, who also trains the colt. Bred by Gerald Rich, the son of This Is An Eagle was a $15,500 graduate of the TQHA Yearling Sale. He is out of the A Little Illegal mare Granny Grump TB.
No Faux finished fourth, followed by Fire Bolt B and Gladiator to complete the order of finish.
$53,500 WILLIE HICKMAN MEMORIAL STAKES (RG2)
Kas Prietito delivered a powerful late surge to score his second consecutive black-type victory. The 4-year-old gelding covered 400 yards in 19.834 seconds, earning a 103 speed index while defeating runner-up Sloww Downn by 2 1/4 lengths.
Ridden by Luis Maldonado, the son of Kas Tempting earned $32,100 for the victory and recorded his strongest performance of the season in the (G2) stakes event. Winner of the Sam Houston Classic Stakes (G2) in his last start, Kas Prietito has won five of 14 career starts and earned $138,766.
Bred in Texas by Rancho J S, Kas Prietito is out of the Azoom mare Marys Corazon. He is owned by Fernando Soto and Rolando Soto and is trained by Sergio Fuentes. Breaking from post six, the gelding was fifth at the start before unleashing a powerful rally and drawing clear under strong handling from Maldonado.
Sloww Downn, a 4-year-old brown filly by Lota Pyc out of Jess One More Thing, by Fly Jess Fly, rallied late under jockey Eliazar Vera to secure second by a head. Owned by Whiting Ranch and trained by Delbert McDowell, the filly was bred by Steve A. Holt. She finished 2 14-lengths behind the winner while holding a head advantage over the third-place finisher. Stepping up in class off a $15,000 claiming victory in her last start, May 14, she has banked $50,285.
Dm Chasing Money finished third under jockey Claudio Aguilar. Bred and owned by Donna Mushinski, the 4-year-old son of This Is an Eagle is out of Dm Maryanna, by The Louisiana Cartel. Trained by Kie Mushinski, he battled throughout before finishing a head behind Sloww Downn and a neck in front of the fourth-place horse. Third in the Leon Bard Memorial last season, Dm Chasing Money has earned $63,341.
Completing the order of finish were Ima Chili, Inflation, and Zef Lucky Seis. Kadillaking was scratched by the veterinarian prior to the race.
$50,000 GOVERNORS CUP MARATHON STAKES (G3)
Louisiana Mystery rallied through the stretch and won by a head-bob finish over Hondo Hocks for the upset, paying $22.20 on 10-1 odds. Ridden by Luis Vivanco, the son of The Louisiana Cartel, earned the victory in 46.120 seconds, clocking a 93 speed index.
Bred by J. E. Jumonville Jr., Louisiana Mystery is out of the Stoli mare Faith And Courage. Trainer Marc Jungers conditions the four-year-old gelding for owner Louisiana Mystery Venture. He earned $30,000 for the effort, boosting his earnings mark to $75,177 and improving his record to 3-2-4 from 15 starts, which included a third-place finish in the Texas Classic Juvenile in 2024.
Hondo Hocks set the pace from the outset and battled gamely throughout before losing the head-bob decision by a nose. Trained by Arnold Lewis, the runner-up, ridden by Eliazar Vera, collected $10,000 while earning his first career black type and boosted his bankroll to $105,547.
Bred by Robyne Draper, Hondo Hocks is a 4-year-old bay gelding by leading sire Kiss My Hocks out of the Attila's Storm TB mare Sofia's Gift TB. He races for Diamond L Racing, Abel Lopez, and Kolt Redden.
Another neck behind the top pair was post-time favorite Yippee Ki Yey, a 5-year-old gelding by leading sire Tres Seis. Pressing the pace two-wide throughout, he stayed on willingly to finish third under jockey Nestor Durna, four lengths ahead of the remainder of the field.
He has earned black type status eight times during his career, including a win in the Ruidoso Juvenile. Bred and owned by Stanley Forbes, Yippee Ki Yey is out of Jess Shantastic, by Fantastic Corona Jr. Trained by Richard Sedillo, he has earned $115,873 from 26 starts.
Superfragilistic finished fourth, followed by Thrill and Fury in fifth, Dazzlin Drama in sixth, and Music Dash in seventh.
$56,500 SAM HOUSTON 550 STAKES (G3)
Determined, was just that. He rallied from the back of the pack to earn his first career stakes victory under rider Raul Hernandez Jr. The 5-year-old gelding covered the unique 550-yard distance in 27.881 while facing a 10 mph headwind.
Trained by Shae Cox, Determined closed strongly through the final yards to get up in time and defeat Imma Sweet Diva by a head. After settling near the rear of the field early, the gelding unleashed at the final call to secure the biggest victory of his career for owner Elaine Faye Hammonds. The 21-1 upset set paid $43.20 on a $2.00 wager.
Bred by Kenneth Hammonds, Determined is a son of One Famous Diamond out of the Eyesa Special mare Special Kaydena. The victory was his fifth from 17 starts and boosted his bankroll to $92,440 with the $33,900 winner's share of the purse.
Prior to his breakthrough stakes score, the gelding's best efforts included a third-place finish in the GCFA All Breeds 870 Stakes and a fourth-place effort in the Races and Aces Stakes to close out his 2025 campaign.
Imma Sweet Diva finished second under Ruben Delarosa Jr. for owner Eduardo Guel and trainer Joe Chapa. The mare made a strong bid in the stretch but was unable to hold off the late charge from the winner.
Bred by Manuel Ortiz, the 5-year-old mare is sired by One Sweet Jess and out of the Mighty Corona mare Mo Diamond Corona. Imma Sweet Diva now owns a record of 3-3-2 from 17 starts with earnings of $56,328. She previously competed in last year's Yellow Rose of Texas Stakes, where she finished fifth.
Onthrocks completed the trifecta under Nestor Duran for owner Sarah Huskey and trainer Esteban Rubio. The veteran 550 specialist gelding battled on the front end and briefly took command before settling for third at the wire.
Bred by Ware Racing & Ranching LLC, the 7-year-old son of A Revenant is out of the Stoli mare Stol A Bunny. Onthrocks now sports a record of 8-6-7 with earnings of $258,684 from 33 starts. Among his accomplishments are two victories in the TQHA 550 Stakes (G3), two editions of the Sam Houston 550 Stakes, and the Tower of the Americas Stakes.
Top Cowboy finished fourth and was followed by Ym Flyin, Perry Bogart, Liberater, Th Mai Tai Tom, and Whata Lota Boy to complete the order of finish.
$55,500 MISS SAM HOUSTON STAKES
After compiling multiple stakes placings over the past two seasons, Celebratingtheeagle finally added a black-type win to her resume when she defeated Takillyya Onthe Hocks. Three-quarters of a length separated the top pair at the finish of the 330-yard event, while Jess Louisiana Girl finished another neck back in third.
Ridden by champion jockey James Flores, the 4-year-old filly clocked a 101 speed index in :16.633 seconds. Trained by Joseph Manucy, Celebratingtheeagle was sent off at 9-1 odds, which paid $20.20 for the upset.
Owned by Jesus Molina, Celebratingtheeagle earned $33,300 for the victory and increased her bankroll to $148,680. The daughter of This Is an Eagle has now won six of 19 career starts.
The victory followed several close calls in stakes competition. Celebratingtheeagle previously finished second in the La Villita Stakes and TQHA Sale Sophomore Stakes and was third in the Old South Derby. She was also a finalist in both the Sam Houston Futurity (G2) and EVD Derby. Bred in Texas by Debbie Eller, the $29,000 TQHA Yearling Sale graduate is out of the Azoom mare Zoomin N Celebrating.
Takillyya Onthe Hocks collected $11,100 for second, earning the first black-type placing of her career. Oliver Martinez was aboard the Francisco Perez Jr. trainee.
Racing for Sunset Well Service, Inc., Takillyya Onthe Hocks has compiled a record of four wins, five seconds, and one third from 17 starts while earning $59,433. She was previously a finalist in the TQHA Juvenile and Old South Derby.
The daughter of Kiss My Hocks was bred in Texas by Sunset Well Service Inc. from the Pyc Paint Your Wagon mare Takillyya Gurl. She was a $33,000 repurchase at the TQHA Yearling Sale.
Making her first start since winning the Yellow Rose of Texas Stakes last November, Jess Louisiana Girl placed third under jockey Claudio Aguilar. The Victor Fierro-trained filly races for owner Eleazar Martinez Sr.
Last season, Jess Louisiana Girl also won the John Buchanan Memorial Stakes. In addition, she finished second in the Miss Sam Houston Stakes and Glenn Blodgett Stakes and was third in the Phillips Jr Stakes (G2).
The daughter of Chilitos was bred in Texas by Anahi Martinez out of Sissy Cartel by The Louisiana Cartel. Jess Louisiana Girl was a $24,000 repurchase in the TQHA Yearling Sale.
Celena Olena finished fourth and was followed by Ruse Dynasty 123, Dm Bella Star, Cowgurl Up, Mrs Pyc Painted Nova, Jj Jessa Dynasty, and Killin Time.
$57,500 SAM HOUSTON 250 STAKES
Favored to win, Fabulous Casina dueled throughout under jockey Froylan Ramirez and surged clear late to score a half-length victory. The Texas-bred 4-year-old filly covered the 250 yards in 13.165 seconds, earning a 96 speed index while collecting the winner's share of $34,500.
Bred in Texas by Bobby Myers, Fabulous Casina is a daughter of multiple stakes sire One Fabulous Eagle out of Bm Casina Royale, by Pyc Paint Your Wagon.
Owned by Thomas Tiller and trained by Brittany Tellez, Fabulous Casina has lit the board 11 of 15 starts with five wins and earnings of $139,605. She is a three-time stakes winner, including last year’s TQHA Sale Sophomore Stakes and La Villita Stakes.
Ridden by Raul Hernandez Jr, Shot Of Takillya finished second, one-half length behind the winner, while holding a one-length advantage over third-place finisher Goodtime in Texas. The 3-year-old son of multiple stakes sire Muddy Watters is out of Takillya Gurl, by Pyc Paint Your Wagon.
Shot Of Takillya is bred and owned by Sunset Well Service Inc and trained by Francisco Perez Jr. The runner-up earned $11,500, boosting his mark to $167,463 and improving his record to 2-4-1 from 12 starts, which includes a victory in the Old South Futurity last season.
Goodtime In Texas, a 5-year-old sorrel mare by Duponte, finished in third under jockey Jose Herbert. Bred by Connie Nobles, out of Keep It Royal, by Givinitaroyaleffort, she is owned by John Obregon.
Trained by Ramiro, Goodtime In Texas bore in during the running but was never a serious threat to the top two finishers. Stepping into stakes company off a starter allowance win in her last start, she has banked over $96,000, which also includes a second-place finish in last year’s Sam Houston 250 Stakes.
Defives finished fourth, followed by Catty Six B. Texas Diva RL crossed the wire sixth but was disqualified by the stewards and placed last for interference following a review of the race. Blasted Eagle was elevated to seventh, followed by Heza Fast Dynasty in eighth, Grace N Dash in ninth, and Chilitossweetbruja in tenth.
$176,250 INAUGURAL SAM HOUSTON OAKS
Karma Cha Ching outdueled a talented field of sophomore fillies and held off a late charge from heavy favorite Bludz Valiant Policy to capture the inaugural running. The 3-year-old sorrel filly covered 400 yards in 19.929, earning a 101 speed index while securing the winner's share of $70,500 from the rich Oaks purse.
Bred and owned by Sarah Huskey, Karma Cha Ching was saddled by trainer Esteban Rubio and ridden by jockey Nestor Duran. Breaking from the outside post, the filly dueled throughout and prevailed by a neck at the wire. The victory came at odds of 19-1, paying $38.60 for the upset.
A finalist in the TQHA Sire's Cup Futurity (RG2) last season, the filly has won three of 10 starts and earned $99,702.
Bludz Valiant Policy, the 1-2 wagering favorite, rallied strongly after a troubled start to finish second, 1 1/2 lengths ahead of third-place finisher Bm Candi Royale. Bred and owned by Three Bar T Quarter Horses, the daughter of champion sire Apollitical Blood is out of Bp Tres Policies, by Tres Seis.
Trained by Ben Olaveson and ridden by Luis Vivanco, she earned $35,250, boosting her earnings to $91,970. Bludz Valiant Policy has lit the board in six of seven starts, with four wins, and was a finalist in the Dash For Cash Futurity (G2) last season.
Bm Candi Royale finished another neck behind the runner-up in third. The daughter of second-crop sire Dulce Sin Tacha is out of the Pyc Paint Your Wagon mare Bm Casina Royale. Brittany Tellez trains the filly, who Froylan Ramirez rode for breeder-owner Bobby Myers. This is her first black-type score, and the effort improved her earnings to $27,878.
Jess So Fly finished fourth, followed by Fire Cowgirl, This Eagles A Leader, Jeg Fascination Chik, Carpe Diem Baby, Political Looker and Anas Juli Ann.
$234,500 SAM HOUSTON DERBY (G3)
Eagle On A June Bug surged to the front in a deep stretch at the wire, holding off post-time favorite Royalist. Covering the 400 yards in 19.473, he earned a 112 speed index while securing the winner's share of $93,620 from the rich derby purse.
This was the first career stakes win for the Eagle On A June Bug, who was second in the TQHA Sale Futurity (RG1) and the Louisiana Downs Futurity (G2) last year.
Owned by Sergio Jimenez and Enrique Santollo, Eagle On A June Bug is a 3-year-old son of multiple stakes sire Eagles Fly Higher out of Sandy June Bug, by Blushing Bug.
"We had a lot of family and friends here today. We got a lot of support, and we're grateful," his owners said. "We thank everybody who came out and supported us today."
Eagle On A June Bug was bred by Robert T. Moudy III and is trained by Victor Oviedo.
“I was pretty confident in this race. I just felt like the horse was getting better and better," Oviedo said after the race. “During his 2-year-old campaign, he was good, but he just hadn’t fully developed yet. He came off two or three big futurities and finished second in two of them, and we knew this was probably going to be his year."
Ridden by Javier Hernandez, Eagle On A June Bug dueled throughout before drawing clear late to score by one-half length. The victory added a sixth career win in 11 starts to the gelding's resume after being purchased for $20,000 at the 2024 TQHA Yearling Sale. He has banked $366,076.
"Last year he was running pretty well, and this year I knew it was going to be his year," Hernandez said.
Royalist, the 1-1 favorite, finished a game second after battling for the lead through much of the race. The sorrel colt by #3 all-time leading sire Corona Cartel out of Zigfield Follies, by One Famous Eagle, earned $46,810 for owner Hector Reina.
Bred in California by Veronica Gail Kawananakoa, Royalist is trained by Ben Olaveson and was ridden by Luis Vivanco. He earned a 109 speed index while finishing one-half length behind the winner and one and one-half lengths ahead of the third-place finisher.
The $120,000 Los Alamitos Equine Sale graduate was a finalist in the EVD Futurity (G2) last December and has banked $96,069 in 10 career starts.
Litenin finished third and collected $23,405. Bred by Bullard Farms, the son of Class King is out of Fleet Elis, by Fishers Dash, and races for owner Rene Roman.
Trained by Janessa Muniz and ridden by Randy Edison Jr., Litenin dueled early before weakening late. He was a $17,000 TQHA Sale graduate in 2024 and has earned $91,765.
Ring a Ling Ding finished fourth, followed by Di Kvn Waven, Jess Drive, Run On Monday, Cobra Stone 77, Atlas Rise, and Prize Time Lelo, who completed the field.
$655,100 SAM HOUSTON FUTURITY (G2)
DK Bonita Jess outdueled Bad Boy 123 in an exciting photo finish, prevailing by a nose after covering the 350 yards in :17.781, and clocking a 90 speed index into a 10 mph headwind.
Ridden by Nestor Duran, DK Bonita Jess secured the $262,040 winner’s share of the third-largest purse in the history of the race, which boosted her career earnings to $324,251.
Duran, who qualified five juveniles to the finals, compared the filly favorably to her accomplished older sister.
"She's too perfect. I used to ride her sister, DK Marney Jess, and they are both the same," Duran said. "They both stand perfect, professional."
Bred by Cuadra La Presita, DK Bonita Jess was a $120,000 graduate of the Ruidoso Select Yearling Sale. She is a full sister to graded stakes winner DK Marney Jess ($590,704). Her dam is the stakes-winning Corona Cartel mare Marney Jo ($71,277 in Mexico), a full sister to champion KVN Corona ($868,077).
Trainer Miguel Pizana saddled the daughter of leading sire Apollitical Jess for owner CH Horse Racing LLC. "She just really concentrates on her job," Pizana said. "She does everything great."
The filly battled for the lead throughout and found just enough in the final strides to secure the richest victory of her young career. The win improved her record to 3-1-0 from four starts, which includes a second-place finish in the Louisiana Downs Futurity (G2).
A representative of CH Horse Racing LLC reflected on the family's continued success with the female line. "I won with her sister two years ago, so I thought she could do the same thing, and thank God she did," he said.
Following the victory, her connections indicated she is likely to make her next start in the Dash For Cash Futurity (G1) trials at Lone Star Park in September.
Bad Boy 123 finished second under Edwin Escobedo for owner Reynaldo Munoz and trainer Bobby Muniz Pena. Bred by Kylee Habeck, the colt brought $72,000 at the TQHA Yearling Sale.
A son of champion Flying Cowboy 123, Bad Boy 123 is out of the stakes-winning Tres Seis mare Three Past Six ($160,040). His runner-up effort moved his record to 1-2-0 from three and increased his earnings to $139,020.
JJ Kiss completed the trifecta under Francisco Calderon for owner Gisela Davila-Perez and trainer Bobby Muniz Pena. The colt entered the futurity off a finalist effort in the West Texas Futurity (G2) and closed strongly after qualifying as the final finalist.
Bred by Alan and Sharon Colley, JJ Kiss was a $55,000 TQHA Yearling Sale graduate. The son of champion Kiss My Hocks is out of the Walk Thru Fire mare A Friend In The Sky. He now owns two wins from four starts with earnings of $87,468.
Fastest qualifier Coronas First Cowboy finished fourth and was followed by Limites Sin B, Let It B Cowgirl, Cajuns 123, Soaring Lark 123, Dot Dot Dot Xo, and Get Aggressive.
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. It 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.
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Photos: Jack Coady Photography
• DK Bonita Jess, ridden by Nestor Duran, battles to a nose victory over Bad Boy 123 in the Grade 2 $655,100 Sam Houston Futurity on June 13 at Sam Houston Race Park.
• Eagle On A June Bug, under jockey Javier Hernandez, won the $176,250 Sam Houston Derby(G3) on Saturday night.
• Karma Cha Ching (#10), under jockey Nestor Duran, holds off Bludz Valiant Policy (#2) in the $176,250 Sam Houston Oaks at Sam Houston Race Park Saturday night.
• Eye Will Decide ridden by Noe Villatoro, draws away to win the Grade 3 $55,000 Jesse Yoakum Memorial 870 Stakes at Sam Houston Race Park on June 13.
• Celebratingtheeagle and jockey James Flores hold off Takillya Onthe Hocks to capture the $55,500 Miss Sam Houston Stakes on June 13 at Sam Houston Race Park.
• Louisiana Mystery (#5), under jockey Luis Vivanco, gets up over Hondo Hocks (#2) in the $50,000 Governors Cup Marathon Stakes(G3) at Sam Houston Race Park.
• Determined, ridden by Raul Hernandez Jr., closes with a powerful late rally to capture the Grade 3 Sam Houston 550 Stakes at Sam Houston Race Park on June 13.
• Fabulous Casina (#2), under jockey Froylan Ramierz, won the $57,500 Sam Houston 250 Stakes on Saturday night.
• Kas Prietito, under jockey Luis Maldonado, easily won the restricted Grade 2 Willie Hickman Memorial Stakes at Sam Houston Race Park on Saturday night
The final weekend generated $1,830,792 in total wagering, a 16.4% increase from the $1,572,683 wagered during the comparable three-day period in 2025. Off-track wagering accounted for $1,575,472, up 24.9% from $1,261,289 a year ago, while on-track wagering totaled $255,320. Friday's on-track handle rose 27.9% to $61,972, compared with $48,442 in 2025, and Saturday's closing-night card led the weekend with $154,908 in live wagering.
The meet's leading trainer title went to Jose Sanchez III, who topped all conditioners with 19 victories. Sunset Well Service, Inc. led all owners with seven wins during the Quarter Horse season, while Luis Vivanco secured leading rider honors with 39 victories. DK Bonita Jess finished as the meet's leading money earner, banking $268,040 following her victory in the Sam Houston Futurity (G2).
"The evening was chock-full of fast horses and quality competition. One of the most competitive quarter horse Stakes cards that I've seen in some time. It was a wildly successful and unpredictable evening with multiple winners paying over $20 to win," said Sam Houston Racing Secretary, Mike Acton.
Headlined by the $655,100 Sam Houston Futurity (G2), $234,050 Sam Houston Derby (G3), and inaugural $176,250 Sam Houston Oaks, the closing-night stakes program created a championship atmosphere as Texas-breds competed for some of the richest purses of the season.
A series of standout performances highlighted the card, led by DK Bonita Jess's nose victory in the Sam Houston Futurity (G2) and Eagle On A June Bug's first career stakes score in the Sam Houston Derby (G3). Karma Cha Ching upset a talented field in the inaugural Sam Houston Oaks, while veteran distance specialist Eye Will Decide reclaimed the Jesse Yoakum Memorial 870 Stakes (G3), his second victory in the race following a win in 2023.
Determined earned his first black-type victory in the Sam Houston 550 Stakes (G3), Fabulous Casina captured the Sam Houston 250 Stakes, Celebratingtheeagle broke through for her first stakes triumph in the Miss Sam Houston Stakes, Kas Prietito notched his second consecutive stakes win in the Willie Hickman Memorial Stakes (G2), and Louisiana Mystery prevailed by a nose in the Governors Cup Marathon Stakes (G3).
"Everyone came to run and it showed! I am looking forward to seeing many of these horses run at Retama Park along with future stars that may have yet to emerge," Acton concluded.
The festive atmosphere extended beyond the racetrack as fans enjoyed the popular Shoppa's Lawn Mower Races and a Whiskey Tasting event. Hayden Gula claimed top honors in the lawn mower race after taking command early along the inside, adding another memorable moment to the meet's closing-night celebration.
$55,000 JESSE YOAKUM MEMORIAL 870 STAKES (G3)
Eye Will Decide kicked off the evening's stakes action with a bang, reclaiming the Jesse Yoakum Memorial 870 Stakes for the second time in his career with a commanding five-length victory. After winning the race in 2023 and finishing second in both 2024 and 2025, the veteran gelding left little doubt in 2026, covering 870 yards in :45.492 while facing a 10 mph headwind.
Breaking from the rail, the Adan Guzman-trained gelding controlled the pace throughout before drawing away in the stretch. Eye Will Decide, piloted by Noe Villatoro, clocked a 101 speed index with the effort.
Bred and owned by Byron Gardner, the eight-year-old son of Majestic Cartel is out of the stakes-winning Valiant Hero mare Valiant Lil Lady. The victory was the seventh of his career from 33 starts and increased his bankroll to $234,142 after earning the $33,000 winner's share of the purse. Eye Will Decide is a three-time stakes winner whose victories include the San Marcos Stakes.
Last year’s defending champion, Master Reigns, finished second under Raul Hernandez Jr. for owner Bronc Richard Hawkins and trainer Marc Jungers. The 7-year-old gelding bred by Richard Hawkins is by Dash Master Jess and out of the He Will Reign mare Dancee Reigns. He now sports a record of 6-6-5 from 37 starts with earnings of $159,853.
Post-time favorite GJR Rooster completed the trifecta under Gilberto Linares for owners Richard Young, Joe David Yates, and Zack Stinebaugh, who also trains the colt. Bred by Gerald Rich, the son of This Is An Eagle was a $15,500 graduate of the TQHA Yearling Sale. He is out of the A Little Illegal mare Granny Grump TB.
No Faux finished fourth, followed by Fire Bolt B and Gladiator to complete the order of finish.
$53,500 WILLIE HICKMAN MEMORIAL STAKES (RG2)
Kas Prietito delivered a powerful late surge to score his second consecutive black-type victory. The 4-year-old gelding covered 400 yards in 19.834 seconds, earning a 103 speed index while defeating runner-up Sloww Downn by 2 1/4 lengths.
Ridden by Luis Maldonado, the son of Kas Tempting earned $32,100 for the victory and recorded his strongest performance of the season in the (G2) stakes event. Winner of the Sam Houston Classic Stakes (G2) in his last start, Kas Prietito has won five of 14 career starts and earned $138,766.
Bred in Texas by Rancho J S, Kas Prietito is out of the Azoom mare Marys Corazon. He is owned by Fernando Soto and Rolando Soto and is trained by Sergio Fuentes. Breaking from post six, the gelding was fifth at the start before unleashing a powerful rally and drawing clear under strong handling from Maldonado.
Sloww Downn, a 4-year-old brown filly by Lota Pyc out of Jess One More Thing, by Fly Jess Fly, rallied late under jockey Eliazar Vera to secure second by a head. Owned by Whiting Ranch and trained by Delbert McDowell, the filly was bred by Steve A. Holt. She finished 2 14-lengths behind the winner while holding a head advantage over the third-place finisher. Stepping up in class off a $15,000 claiming victory in her last start, May 14, she has banked $50,285.
Dm Chasing Money finished third under jockey Claudio Aguilar. Bred and owned by Donna Mushinski, the 4-year-old son of This Is an Eagle is out of Dm Maryanna, by The Louisiana Cartel. Trained by Kie Mushinski, he battled throughout before finishing a head behind Sloww Downn and a neck in front of the fourth-place horse. Third in the Leon Bard Memorial last season, Dm Chasing Money has earned $63,341.
Completing the order of finish were Ima Chili, Inflation, and Zef Lucky Seis. Kadillaking was scratched by the veterinarian prior to the race.
$50,000 GOVERNORS CUP MARATHON STAKES (G3)
Louisiana Mystery rallied through the stretch and won by a head-bob finish over Hondo Hocks for the upset, paying $22.20 on 10-1 odds. Ridden by Luis Vivanco, the son of The Louisiana Cartel, earned the victory in 46.120 seconds, clocking a 93 speed index.
Bred by J. E. Jumonville Jr., Louisiana Mystery is out of the Stoli mare Faith And Courage. Trainer Marc Jungers conditions the four-year-old gelding for owner Louisiana Mystery Venture. He earned $30,000 for the effort, boosting his earnings mark to $75,177 and improving his record to 3-2-4 from 15 starts, which included a third-place finish in the Texas Classic Juvenile in 2024.
Hondo Hocks set the pace from the outset and battled gamely throughout before losing the head-bob decision by a nose. Trained by Arnold Lewis, the runner-up, ridden by Eliazar Vera, collected $10,000 while earning his first career black type and boosted his bankroll to $105,547.
Bred by Robyne Draper, Hondo Hocks is a 4-year-old bay gelding by leading sire Kiss My Hocks out of the Attila's Storm TB mare Sofia's Gift TB. He races for Diamond L Racing, Abel Lopez, and Kolt Redden.
Another neck behind the top pair was post-time favorite Yippee Ki Yey, a 5-year-old gelding by leading sire Tres Seis. Pressing the pace two-wide throughout, he stayed on willingly to finish third under jockey Nestor Durna, four lengths ahead of the remainder of the field.
He has earned black type status eight times during his career, including a win in the Ruidoso Juvenile. Bred and owned by Stanley Forbes, Yippee Ki Yey is out of Jess Shantastic, by Fantastic Corona Jr. Trained by Richard Sedillo, he has earned $115,873 from 26 starts.
Superfragilistic finished fourth, followed by Thrill and Fury in fifth, Dazzlin Drama in sixth, and Music Dash in seventh.
$56,500 SAM HOUSTON 550 STAKES (G3)
Determined, was just that. He rallied from the back of the pack to earn his first career stakes victory under rider Raul Hernandez Jr. The 5-year-old gelding covered the unique 550-yard distance in 27.881 while facing a 10 mph headwind.
Trained by Shae Cox, Determined closed strongly through the final yards to get up in time and defeat Imma Sweet Diva by a head. After settling near the rear of the field early, the gelding unleashed at the final call to secure the biggest victory of his career for owner Elaine Faye Hammonds. The 21-1 upset set paid $43.20 on a $2.00 wager.
Bred by Kenneth Hammonds, Determined is a son of One Famous Diamond out of the Eyesa Special mare Special Kaydena. The victory was his fifth from 17 starts and boosted his bankroll to $92,440 with the $33,900 winner's share of the purse.
Prior to his breakthrough stakes score, the gelding's best efforts included a third-place finish in the GCFA All Breeds 870 Stakes and a fourth-place effort in the Races and Aces Stakes to close out his 2025 campaign.
Imma Sweet Diva finished second under Ruben Delarosa Jr. for owner Eduardo Guel and trainer Joe Chapa. The mare made a strong bid in the stretch but was unable to hold off the late charge from the winner.
Bred by Manuel Ortiz, the 5-year-old mare is sired by One Sweet Jess and out of the Mighty Corona mare Mo Diamond Corona. Imma Sweet Diva now owns a record of 3-3-2 from 17 starts with earnings of $56,328. She previously competed in last year's Yellow Rose of Texas Stakes, where she finished fifth.
Onthrocks completed the trifecta under Nestor Duran for owner Sarah Huskey and trainer Esteban Rubio. The veteran 550 specialist gelding battled on the front end and briefly took command before settling for third at the wire.
Bred by Ware Racing & Ranching LLC, the 7-year-old son of A Revenant is out of the Stoli mare Stol A Bunny. Onthrocks now sports a record of 8-6-7 with earnings of $258,684 from 33 starts. Among his accomplishments are two victories in the TQHA 550 Stakes (G3), two editions of the Sam Houston 550 Stakes, and the Tower of the Americas Stakes.
Top Cowboy finished fourth and was followed by Ym Flyin, Perry Bogart, Liberater, Th Mai Tai Tom, and Whata Lota Boy to complete the order of finish.
$55,500 MISS SAM HOUSTON STAKES
After compiling multiple stakes placings over the past two seasons, Celebratingtheeagle finally added a black-type win to her resume when she defeated Takillyya Onthe Hocks. Three-quarters of a length separated the top pair at the finish of the 330-yard event, while Jess Louisiana Girl finished another neck back in third.
Ridden by champion jockey James Flores, the 4-year-old filly clocked a 101 speed index in :16.633 seconds. Trained by Joseph Manucy, Celebratingtheeagle was sent off at 9-1 odds, which paid $20.20 for the upset.
Owned by Jesus Molina, Celebratingtheeagle earned $33,300 for the victory and increased her bankroll to $148,680. The daughter of This Is an Eagle has now won six of 19 career starts.
The victory followed several close calls in stakes competition. Celebratingtheeagle previously finished second in the La Villita Stakes and TQHA Sale Sophomore Stakes and was third in the Old South Derby. She was also a finalist in both the Sam Houston Futurity (G2) and EVD Derby. Bred in Texas by Debbie Eller, the $29,000 TQHA Yearling Sale graduate is out of the Azoom mare Zoomin N Celebrating.
Takillyya Onthe Hocks collected $11,100 for second, earning the first black-type placing of her career. Oliver Martinez was aboard the Francisco Perez Jr. trainee.
Racing for Sunset Well Service, Inc., Takillyya Onthe Hocks has compiled a record of four wins, five seconds, and one third from 17 starts while earning $59,433. She was previously a finalist in the TQHA Juvenile and Old South Derby.
The daughter of Kiss My Hocks was bred in Texas by Sunset Well Service Inc. from the Pyc Paint Your Wagon mare Takillyya Gurl. She was a $33,000 repurchase at the TQHA Yearling Sale.
Making her first start since winning the Yellow Rose of Texas Stakes last November, Jess Louisiana Girl placed third under jockey Claudio Aguilar. The Victor Fierro-trained filly races for owner Eleazar Martinez Sr.
Last season, Jess Louisiana Girl also won the John Buchanan Memorial Stakes. In addition, she finished second in the Miss Sam Houston Stakes and Glenn Blodgett Stakes and was third in the Phillips Jr Stakes (G2).
The daughter of Chilitos was bred in Texas by Anahi Martinez out of Sissy Cartel by The Louisiana Cartel. Jess Louisiana Girl was a $24,000 repurchase in the TQHA Yearling Sale.
Celena Olena finished fourth and was followed by Ruse Dynasty 123, Dm Bella Star, Cowgurl Up, Mrs Pyc Painted Nova, Jj Jessa Dynasty, and Killin Time.
$57,500 SAM HOUSTON 250 STAKES
Favored to win, Fabulous Casina dueled throughout under jockey Froylan Ramirez and surged clear late to score a half-length victory. The Texas-bred 4-year-old filly covered the 250 yards in 13.165 seconds, earning a 96 speed index while collecting the winner's share of $34,500.
Bred in Texas by Bobby Myers, Fabulous Casina is a daughter of multiple stakes sire One Fabulous Eagle out of Bm Casina Royale, by Pyc Paint Your Wagon.
Owned by Thomas Tiller and trained by Brittany Tellez, Fabulous Casina has lit the board 11 of 15 starts with five wins and earnings of $139,605. She is a three-time stakes winner, including last year’s TQHA Sale Sophomore Stakes and La Villita Stakes.
Ridden by Raul Hernandez Jr, Shot Of Takillya finished second, one-half length behind the winner, while holding a one-length advantage over third-place finisher Goodtime in Texas. The 3-year-old son of multiple stakes sire Muddy Watters is out of Takillya Gurl, by Pyc Paint Your Wagon.
Shot Of Takillya is bred and owned by Sunset Well Service Inc and trained by Francisco Perez Jr. The runner-up earned $11,500, boosting his mark to $167,463 and improving his record to 2-4-1 from 12 starts, which includes a victory in the Old South Futurity last season.
Goodtime In Texas, a 5-year-old sorrel mare by Duponte, finished in third under jockey Jose Herbert. Bred by Connie Nobles, out of Keep It Royal, by Givinitaroyaleffort, she is owned by John Obregon.
Trained by Ramiro, Goodtime In Texas bore in during the running but was never a serious threat to the top two finishers. Stepping into stakes company off a starter allowance win in her last start, she has banked over $96,000, which also includes a second-place finish in last year’s Sam Houston 250 Stakes.
Defives finished fourth, followed by Catty Six B. Texas Diva RL crossed the wire sixth but was disqualified by the stewards and placed last for interference following a review of the race. Blasted Eagle was elevated to seventh, followed by Heza Fast Dynasty in eighth, Grace N Dash in ninth, and Chilitossweetbruja in tenth.
$176,250 INAUGURAL SAM HOUSTON OAKS
Karma Cha Ching outdueled a talented field of sophomore fillies and held off a late charge from heavy favorite Bludz Valiant Policy to capture the inaugural running. The 3-year-old sorrel filly covered 400 yards in 19.929, earning a 101 speed index while securing the winner's share of $70,500 from the rich Oaks purse.
Bred and owned by Sarah Huskey, Karma Cha Ching was saddled by trainer Esteban Rubio and ridden by jockey Nestor Duran. Breaking from the outside post, the filly dueled throughout and prevailed by a neck at the wire. The victory came at odds of 19-1, paying $38.60 for the upset.
A finalist in the TQHA Sire's Cup Futurity (RG2) last season, the filly has won three of 10 starts and earned $99,702.
Bludz Valiant Policy, the 1-2 wagering favorite, rallied strongly after a troubled start to finish second, 1 1/2 lengths ahead of third-place finisher Bm Candi Royale. Bred and owned by Three Bar T Quarter Horses, the daughter of champion sire Apollitical Blood is out of Bp Tres Policies, by Tres Seis.
Trained by Ben Olaveson and ridden by Luis Vivanco, she earned $35,250, boosting her earnings to $91,970. Bludz Valiant Policy has lit the board in six of seven starts, with four wins, and was a finalist in the Dash For Cash Futurity (G2) last season.
Bm Candi Royale finished another neck behind the runner-up in third. The daughter of second-crop sire Dulce Sin Tacha is out of the Pyc Paint Your Wagon mare Bm Casina Royale. Brittany Tellez trains the filly, who Froylan Ramirez rode for breeder-owner Bobby Myers. This is her first black-type score, and the effort improved her earnings to $27,878.
Jess So Fly finished fourth, followed by Fire Cowgirl, This Eagles A Leader, Jeg Fascination Chik, Carpe Diem Baby, Political Looker and Anas Juli Ann.
$234,500 SAM HOUSTON DERBY (G3)
Eagle On A June Bug surged to the front in a deep stretch at the wire, holding off post-time favorite Royalist. Covering the 400 yards in 19.473, he earned a 112 speed index while securing the winner's share of $93,620 from the rich derby purse.
This was the first career stakes win for the Eagle On A June Bug, who was second in the TQHA Sale Futurity (RG1) and the Louisiana Downs Futurity (G2) last year.
Owned by Sergio Jimenez and Enrique Santollo, Eagle On A June Bug is a 3-year-old son of multiple stakes sire Eagles Fly Higher out of Sandy June Bug, by Blushing Bug.
"We had a lot of family and friends here today. We got a lot of support, and we're grateful," his owners said. "We thank everybody who came out and supported us today."
Eagle On A June Bug was bred by Robert T. Moudy III and is trained by Victor Oviedo.
“I was pretty confident in this race. I just felt like the horse was getting better and better," Oviedo said after the race. “During his 2-year-old campaign, he was good, but he just hadn’t fully developed yet. He came off two or three big futurities and finished second in two of them, and we knew this was probably going to be his year."
Ridden by Javier Hernandez, Eagle On A June Bug dueled throughout before drawing clear late to score by one-half length. The victory added a sixth career win in 11 starts to the gelding's resume after being purchased for $20,000 at the 2024 TQHA Yearling Sale. He has banked $366,076.
"Last year he was running pretty well, and this year I knew it was going to be his year," Hernandez said.
Royalist, the 1-1 favorite, finished a game second after battling for the lead through much of the race. The sorrel colt by #3 all-time leading sire Corona Cartel out of Zigfield Follies, by One Famous Eagle, earned $46,810 for owner Hector Reina.
Bred in California by Veronica Gail Kawananakoa, Royalist is trained by Ben Olaveson and was ridden by Luis Vivanco. He earned a 109 speed index while finishing one-half length behind the winner and one and one-half lengths ahead of the third-place finisher.
The $120,000 Los Alamitos Equine Sale graduate was a finalist in the EVD Futurity (G2) last December and has banked $96,069 in 10 career starts.
Litenin finished third and collected $23,405. Bred by Bullard Farms, the son of Class King is out of Fleet Elis, by Fishers Dash, and races for owner Rene Roman.
Trained by Janessa Muniz and ridden by Randy Edison Jr., Litenin dueled early before weakening late. He was a $17,000 TQHA Sale graduate in 2024 and has earned $91,765.
Ring a Ling Ding finished fourth, followed by Di Kvn Waven, Jess Drive, Run On Monday, Cobra Stone 77, Atlas Rise, and Prize Time Lelo, who completed the field.
$655,100 SAM HOUSTON FUTURITY (G2)
DK Bonita Jess outdueled Bad Boy 123 in an exciting photo finish, prevailing by a nose after covering the 350 yards in :17.781, and clocking a 90 speed index into a 10 mph headwind.
Ridden by Nestor Duran, DK Bonita Jess secured the $262,040 winner’s share of the third-largest purse in the history of the race, which boosted her career earnings to $324,251.
Duran, who qualified five juveniles to the finals, compared the filly favorably to her accomplished older sister.
"She's too perfect. I used to ride her sister, DK Marney Jess, and they are both the same," Duran said. "They both stand perfect, professional."
Bred by Cuadra La Presita, DK Bonita Jess was a $120,000 graduate of the Ruidoso Select Yearling Sale. She is a full sister to graded stakes winner DK Marney Jess ($590,704). Her dam is the stakes-winning Corona Cartel mare Marney Jo ($71,277 in Mexico), a full sister to champion KVN Corona ($868,077).
Trainer Miguel Pizana saddled the daughter of leading sire Apollitical Jess for owner CH Horse Racing LLC. "She just really concentrates on her job," Pizana said. "She does everything great."
The filly battled for the lead throughout and found just enough in the final strides to secure the richest victory of her young career. The win improved her record to 3-1-0 from four starts, which includes a second-place finish in the Louisiana Downs Futurity (G2).
A representative of CH Horse Racing LLC reflected on the family's continued success with the female line. "I won with her sister two years ago, so I thought she could do the same thing, and thank God she did," he said.
Following the victory, her connections indicated she is likely to make her next start in the Dash For Cash Futurity (G1) trials at Lone Star Park in September.
Bad Boy 123 finished second under Edwin Escobedo for owner Reynaldo Munoz and trainer Bobby Muniz Pena. Bred by Kylee Habeck, the colt brought $72,000 at the TQHA Yearling Sale.
A son of champion Flying Cowboy 123, Bad Boy 123 is out of the stakes-winning Tres Seis mare Three Past Six ($160,040). His runner-up effort moved his record to 1-2-0 from three and increased his earnings to $139,020.
JJ Kiss completed the trifecta under Francisco Calderon for owner Gisela Davila-Perez and trainer Bobby Muniz Pena. The colt entered the futurity off a finalist effort in the West Texas Futurity (G2) and closed strongly after qualifying as the final finalist.
Bred by Alan and Sharon Colley, JJ Kiss was a $55,000 TQHA Yearling Sale graduate. The son of champion Kiss My Hocks is out of the Walk Thru Fire mare A Friend In The Sky. He now owns two wins from four starts with earnings of $87,468.
Fastest qualifier Coronas First Cowboy finished fourth and was followed by Limites Sin B, Let It B Cowgirl, Cajuns 123, Soaring Lark 123, Dot Dot Dot Xo, and Get Aggressive.
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. It 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.
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Photos: Jack Coady Photography
• DK Bonita Jess, ridden by Nestor Duran, battles to a nose victory over Bad Boy 123 in the Grade 2 $655,100 Sam Houston Futurity on June 13 at Sam Houston Race Park.
• Eagle On A June Bug, under jockey Javier Hernandez, won the $176,250 Sam Houston Derby(G3) on Saturday night.
• Karma Cha Ching (#10), under jockey Nestor Duran, holds off Bludz Valiant Policy (#2) in the $176,250 Sam Houston Oaks at Sam Houston Race Park Saturday night.
• Eye Will Decide ridden by Noe Villatoro, draws away to win the Grade 3 $55,000 Jesse Yoakum Memorial 870 Stakes at Sam Houston Race Park on June 13.
• Celebratingtheeagle and jockey James Flores hold off Takillya Onthe Hocks to capture the $55,500 Miss Sam Houston Stakes on June 13 at Sam Houston Race Park.
• Louisiana Mystery (#5), under jockey Luis Vivanco, gets up over Hondo Hocks (#2) in the $50,000 Governors Cup Marathon Stakes(G3) at Sam Houston Race Park.
• Determined, ridden by Raul Hernandez Jr., closes with a powerful late rally to capture the Grade 3 Sam Houston 550 Stakes at Sam Houston Race Park on June 13.
• Fabulous Casina (#2), under jockey Froylan Ramierz, won the $57,500 Sam Houston 250 Stakes on Saturday night.
• Kas Prietito, under jockey Luis Maldonado, easily won the restricted Grade 2 Willie Hickman Memorial Stakes at Sam Houston Race Park on Saturday night