A Late Check Impressive in the $20,475 Pfizer Texas Allowance Starter Challenge

Houston, TX - April 2, 2011 - A Late Check under confident handling by Jarrod Deschamp lived up to his post time favoritism in the $20,475 Pfizer Texas Allowance Starter Challenge. The 4-year-old gelding was bred by the late Blane Schvaneveldt and is owned by Richard K. McGehee. Trained by Glen Atkinson, A Late Check won three in a row in 2010 and ran a game second in a starter allowance at Sam Houston on March 20.

“He got bumped a little bit in his last,” said Deschamp. “It kind of cost him the win. Glen changed a few things and he ran really well tonight.”

A Late Check led from gate-to-wire, holding off a late charge from Flying Bye Here, a 4-year-old son of Dashin Bye, trained by Cindi Keeton. Final time of the 350-yard dash was :18.019.

“We’re real proud of him,” added Atkinson. “I left it in Jarrod’s hands and he did a great job.”

Speedin Streak ran third under rider Rodrigo Vallejo and Firecracker Express, part of the three-horse entry trained by Jorge Haddad, completed the superfecta.

A Late Check ($4.20), improved his career record to five wins from 15 starts and earned a berth into the $75,000 Pfizer Racing Challenge Starter Allowance Championship at Los Alamitos on October 29.

The 2011 American Quarter Horse continues through Sunday, May 15th with races every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. For the full calendar of Sam Houston Race Park’s 2011 live race dates, visit www.shrp.com . Sam Houston Race Park is Houston’s premier racing and entertainment facility, located just 15 minutes from downtown Houston, and offers a variety of attractions including 19 luxury suites overlooking the race track, The Pavilion Centre, and award-winning dining options at the Winner’s Circle Restaurant and the Champion Energy Services Jockey Club. Sam Houston Race Park Platinum Partners include Bud Light, Verizon Wireless and Champion Energy Services. For more information on upcoming shows, events and tickets, please visit www.shrp.com .