ll Moon Desire, under jockey Victor Urieta, Jr., won the $121,082 John Deere Sam Houston Juvenile Challenge(G3) Saturday at Sam Houston Race Park.

© Jack Coady Photography

By H. David Smith, StallioneSearch

HOUSTON, TX – MAY 17, 2025 –In an impressive display of speed, Full Moon Desire, the fastest qualifier, clinched victory in the Grade 3 $121,082 John Deere Sam Houston Juvenile Challenge today at Sam Houston Race Park, winning by 1-1/4 lengths under jockey Victor Urieta, Jr.

Trained by Dimas Sanchez, the filly, a daughter of the multiple stakes winner Chilitos, has now notched two wins in as many starts for her owner, Leviram Racing LLC.

Despite a challenging start marked by a bump, she showcased remarkable resilience, sprinting the 350 yards in a time of 17.762 seconds, which corresponds to a 93 speed index, against an eight mph headwind.

The winning connections of Full Moon Desire accept the John Deere Sam Houston Juvenile trophy on Saturday.
© Jack Coady Photography

Full Moon Desire was bred in Texas by Juan M. Jr. and Jairo Lozano and is a product of the $11,000 TQHA Yearling Sale. Her success today earned her $55,698 and she is out of the Desirio mare, Mystical Desire.

"We raised her and own the mare (Mystical Desire),” said co-owner Josio Lozano. "We are very proud of her!"

Full Moon Desire also secured herself a starting spot in the the Grade 2 $140,000-est. John Deere Juvenile Challenge Championship set for October 18 in Albuquerque.

Finishing in second place was The Texas Hammer, owned and bred by Shadow Cross Farms. Trained by Hector Osorio, the gelding was ridden by jockey Gaspar Garcia. He earned $24,216 for his efforts and is out of the Bodacious Dash mare Bodacity.

Vp Dash For Texas, ridden by Alejando Ochoa, crossed the line in third, earning $12,108. The Pyc Prize Time gelding is trained by Alex Villarreal and is owned and bred by Victor Villarreal. He is out of Gw Money Dash by Dr Beduino.

The race concluded with a competitive field that included Chieftainess, Gaambler, Bolt To An Eagle, The Valiant Flame, On The Monee, Vashti B, and One Famous Effort.

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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