The Grand Legend, under jockey Noe Villatoro, won the $37,774 Q-Racing Video Sam Houston Distance Challenge Stakes Saturday at Sam Houston Race Park.

© Jack Coady Photography

By H. David Smith, StallioneSearch

HOUSTON, TX–MAY 17, 2025–In an impressive season opener, Grade 1 winner The Grand Legend showcased his talent by defeating a field of six in the $37,774 Q-Racing Video Sam Houston Distance Challenge on Saturday at Sam Houston Race Park. Jockey Noe Villatoro guided the 6-year-old son of FDD Going Grand to a commanding six-length victory, marking the 17th win of his remarkable career.

Trained by Adan Guzman and owned by James G. Whitener, LLC, The Grand Legend positioned himself two wide off the turn after an early duel and effortlessly pulled away from his competitors. He completed the 870-yard course in a swift 45.279 seconds, achieving a speed index of 104 despite a five mph headwind.

"This horse has been a blessing for us,’ stated Whitener. "He is a champion all the way through!"

This victory not only adds to The Grand Legend’s accolades but also secures him a spot in the Grade 1 $115,000-est. Q-Racing Distance Challenge Championship scheduled for October 18 in Albuquerque. The accomplished gelding previously claimed the $104,500 Distance Championship title at Lone Star Park in 2023.

The winning connections of The Grand Ledgend accept the Q-Racing Video Sam Houston Distance trophy on Saturday.
© Jack Coady Photography

Bred in Texas by Mercy Hinklin's Horse Farm, LLC, The Grand Legend is out of the Tres Seis mare Legendary Seis and boasts an impressive record of 41 starts with 17 wins, 6 second-place finishes, and 5 thirds, amassing earnings of $431,267.

In a strong showing, Gjr Rooster finished second and earned $8,121. Trained by Zackary Stinebaugh, this son of multiple stakes sire This Is An Eagle is co-owned with Richard Young and Joe David Yates.

Bred in Texas by Gerald Rich out of the A Little Eagle thoroughbred mare, Granny Grmp, Gjr Rooster has nearly $50,000 in earnings from 14 career starts, with Ali Rivera in the saddle.

Finishing third was Big Daddy Dan, who crossed the line 6-1/4 lengths behind the winner, earning $4,155. Trained by Tammy Kay Johnson and ridden by Oscar Andrade, Jr., this 4-year-old son of Kiss My Hocks is owned and bred by Alto Colorado Racing LLC.

With a second-place finish in the Let 'Er Rip Lip Chip LLC Stakes at Lone Star last fall, Big Daddy Dan has accumulated $37,148 in earnings. He is out of the thoroughbred mare Ms Realitos by Dajur.

Dazzlln Drama, Dash Happens, and The Dream completed the field.

Additional Reporting by Martha Claussen

About Sam Houston Race Park
Sam Houston Race Park, located just 15 miles northwest of downtown Houston, is the region's leading racing and entertainment venue. Owned by Penn Entertainment Inc. (NASDAQ – PENN), the facility opened in 1994 and provides a wide range of attractions for businesses, families, and group outings throughout the racing season and off-season. Known for its award-winning dining options, the park features multiple settings for fans ranging from casual to upscale dining, including its Winner’s Circle Restaurant, Jockey Club, Luxury Suites, and Pavilion Centre. For details on upcoming live racing, concerts, and events, visit www.shrp.com or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube.
 

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