The Prince Of Grips, ridden by Cordarelton Benn, wins the $14,000 Tulsa State Fair Stakes for Paint and Appaloosa (not black type) on Saturday at Fair Meadows.

© Coady Photography

TULSA, OK,–JUNE 22, 2024–After breaking his maiden two weeks ago at Fair Meadows, The Prince Of Grips (APHA) returns on Saturday evening for another victory in the $14,000 Tulsa State Fair Stakes for Paint and Appaloosa (not black type).

It was a photo finish at the wire between The Prince Of Grips and Cuz Pistols Firing. Cordarelton Benn got the mount aboard The Prince Of Grips, who remained in second nearly the entire trip but, with a late surge at the wire, crossed it first by a head over Cuz Pistols Firing, guided by Andrew Samaniego.

The Prince Of Grips ran the 350-yard straightaway in :18.152 seconds, clocking an 83 speed index. The son of The Marfa Lights' slight upset paid $13.00 on 9/2 odds.

Owners Jamie and Wendy Howard, jockey Cordarelton Benn and trainer Luz Chavira accept the $14,000 Tulsa State Fair Stakes trophy at Fair Meadows on Saturday. © Coady Photography

The Luz Chavira-trained colt has five career starts this year, with two wins and two seconds. The $8,814 winner's share of the purse boosts The Prince Of Grip's bankroll to $21,376.

Jamie and Wendy Howard of Oklahoma bred and own The Prince Of Grips, who is out of Two Cents Worth by Country Quick Dash.

Jesus Ruben Ruiz trained runner-up Cuz Pistols Firing for owners Jesus Silos and Racin RNS. The son of Painted Turnpike has one win from three starts with $14,360 in earnings. He was bred in Oklahoma by 21 Racing out of Eye Mongoose by Mr Eye Opener.

Turnpike Princess, ridden by Mario Delgado, placed third. The daughter of Painted Turnpike is a winner from four starts and has earned $12,860 for owners/breeders Charles and Liz Horton of Oklahoma. Luis Villafranco bred the sorrel filly out of Lone Oak Queen by Barracuda.

Chief Iron Eagle, Readi To Wire, Linda Cartel, Gold Rod, Pt Kaileigh and Sheza A Hot Secret complete the field.