Fastest qualifier Full Moon Desire will head the $121,082 John Deere Sam Houston Juvenile Challenge (G3) on Saturday.

© Jack Coady Photography

By Martha Claussen

HOUSTON, TX–MAY 13, 2025–Quarter Horse racing fans are in for a treat on Saturday, May 17 at Sam Houston Race Park, with live Quarter Horse action and the simulcast of the Preakness Stakes (see related story).

The $121,082 John Deere Sam Houston Juvenile Challenge (G3) will run as Race 9 on Saturday's card with an estimated post of 4:34 p.m. (CDT).

Trials were contested on March 26 with Leviram Racing LLC’s Full Moon Desire setting the fastest qualifying time in seven heats.

The filly by Chilitos crossed the wire of the 350-yard trial in :17.821 seconds with Sam  Houston Race Park leading rider Victor Urieta, Jr. in the saddle.

The duo will reunite in the final, as the 4-5 choice, to be run as the ninth race on the card.  The 2024 TQHA Yearling Sale graduate was purchased for $11,000 and is trained by Dimas Sanchez.

Her rivals include Victor Villareal’s homebred #5 VP Dash for Texas who will be ridden by Alejandro Ochoa. The gelded son of Pyc Prize Time was also a trial winner in a time of :18.068. #8 On The Monee, bred by Bred in Louisiana by Ryan and Danielle Robicheaux, also was a trial winner for Tabasco Racing LLC.

The filly by Apollitical Jess will be ridden by Oscar Andrade, Jr.

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.

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