HOUSTON, TX—APRIL 24 2015—Making his first start since a third place finish in the $151,500 John Deere Juvenile Challenge Championship(G2) last October, Freakin Runaway rolled to a half-length win and the top qualifying spot for the Adequan Texas Derby Challenge at Sam Houston Race Park on Friday night.

The 10 fastest "Challenge Enrolled" 3-year-olds, who competed in three trials at Sam Houston Race Park on Saturday night, will return to the South Texas raceway on Sunday, May 16 to vie for the winner's share of a $35,000-added purse over 400 yards.

Ridden by jockey Luis Ramirez, Freakin Runaway completed the 400 yard course in :20.235 seconds to get his fourth win in seven career starts. Mike Robbins conditions the Ocean Runaway gelding for owner Michael Amburn. Todd Fincher and Fred Alexander bred the gray gelding in New Mexico from the Streakin La Jolla mare Streakin Freakin. He has earned $44,265.

"He ran a really big race," said Robbins. "Guy Hopkins trained him last year; the horse ran third in the John Deere Challenge. When Guy retired, Mike Amburn sent him to me in February. He was training well, but that was a big effort after a seven-month layoff."

Ipolito put in a steady drive under jockey Jerry Yoakum to win the last trial after getting bumped at the start. Trained by Carlos Saldivar, the Apollo (TB) colt posted the second fastest time of :20.280 seconds for owner Ignacio Garduno Soto. Bred in Florida by Sam Green, Ipolito entered the race off a third place effort n the South Florida Derby on March 1st. He has earned nearly $40,000.

For the complete list of Adequan Texas Derby Challenge qualifiers, times, sires, dams, owners, breeders, trainers and jockeys CLICK HERE.

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Sam Houston Race Park is Houston’s premier racing and entertainment facility, located just 15 minutes from downtown Houston, and offers a variety of attractions including 16 recently renovated 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.