HOUSTON, TX—APRIL 15, 2017—Fastest qualifier Stremlyner made it two in a row Saturday night when he returned to defeat Hotscotch N Courage by a half-a-length in the $109,500 Sam Houston Maiden Classic (not black type) at Sam Houston Race Park. Brenda La Jolla finished a head back for third.

Ridden by jockey Luis Vivanco, Stremlyner completed the 350-yard task in :17.884 seconds, an 86-speed index into an 11-mph headwind.

It was the Brimmerton colt's second consecutive win after setting the fastest qualifying time during the 'Maiden Classic' April 1st trials. The $43,800 winner's purse boosted his career mark to $47,900.

Jorge Barrera trains the 3-year-old, who went winless in five starts last season, for owner Gilbert Morales. Bobby D. Cox bred Stremlyner in Texas from the Corona Cartel mare Allamerican Corona, a half-sister to champion American Runaway.

Making just this third official start, Hotscotch N Courage races for owner/breeder Pamela Stone and is conditioned by leading trainer Leon Bard. Francisco Calderon rode the Captain Courage filly out of the Jumpn mare Hotscotchn. She earned $17,520 for the effort.

Brenda La Jolla, a 3-year-old daughter of champion sire The Louisiana Cartel, picked $12,045 for third. Robert Madigal trains the brown filly for owner/breeder Eleazar Martinez, Sr. Out of the Feature Mr Jess mare Cool Eve, Brenda La Jolla was ridden by jockey Luciano Duenez.

Tempted, First Giorgino, Seaside Perry, Charm The Chief, Gianni Que, Blazen Blue and Catachs Dream completed the field.

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Sam Houston Race Park is Houston’s premier racing and entertainment facility, located just 15 miles from downtown Houston, and offers a variety of attractions including our Suite Level presented by Draft Kings, The Pavilion Centre, and award-winning dining options at the Winner’s Circle Restaurant and the Jockey Club. For more information on upcoming group events, racing events, shows and tickets, please visit www.shrp.com.