ALBUQUERQUE, NM—SEPTEMBER 10, 2017—Three 400-yard trials at Albuquerque Downs today determined the finalists for the September 24, $100,000-added New Mexico State Fair Derby (RG3) for state-bred 3-year-old Quarter Horses.

Co-fastest qualifier Sophie Garcia, under champion jockey Cody Jensen, won the first trial by a nose from third-fastest qualifier A Super Sonic Boom in :19.462 seconds, a 93 speed index.

Justin Joiner trains the daughter of leading second crop sire Big Daddy Cartel for owner Paul Blanchard of Albuquerque. MJ Farms bred the sorrel filly from the Jesse James Jr mare Ella Sophia. The lightly raced filly has won two of five starts and earned $11,421.

Co-fastest qualifier Mr Klee won the third heat by a neck from fourth-fastest qualifier Big Spurs. Also, trained by Justin Joiner for owners Calder and Candy Ezzell of Roswell, New Mexico, Mr Klee covered the distance in :19.462 under jockey champion Cody Jensen.

A finalist in last year's By By JJ Stakes at Ruidoso Downs, Mr Klee is by leading New Mexico sire Jesse James Jr from the Heza Fast Man mare Ms Klee. Bred by Phil Chess he has banked $8,612 with a (6) 2-1-1 record.

Big Daddy Cartel dominated the trial by siring five of 10 qualifiers.

Trainer Justin Joiner had three qualifiers, while trainers Javier Roman Jr. and Cynthia Gonzalez saddled two finalists each.

The complete list of New Mexico State Fair QH Derby finalists, qualifying times, sires, dams, owners, breeders, trainers and jockeys CLICK HERE.

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The Downs at Albuquerque Racetrack and Casino is located in the heart of Albuquerque at Expo New Mexico, the home of the New Mexico State Fair. General admission and parking (valet and self-parking) are always free. For more information, visit abqdowns.com and click on the "Racetrack" link at the top of the homepage.