Grand Prairie, Texas (Saturday, July 22, 2017) - Keene Thoroughbreds, LLC's Texas Chrome became the state's newest Texas-bred millionaire, joining the first and only other Texas-bred racehorse, Groovy, to surpass the million-dollar earnings mark.

Ridden by Lone Star Park's leading rider, Richard Eramia, Texas Chrome tucked into the two path on the first turn, settled in the front quartet, chased three, then two wide on the far turn, pursued the runner-up under a drive into the final furlong, then took the lead at the sixteenth-pole and proved best under strong urging. Runner-up Supermason, ridden by Lindey Wade, was hustled to the lead and set the pace until being caught by the winner to finish second by 1 1/4 lengths, but well clear of the others. Final time for the one mile contest was 1:36.59.

Trained by Allen Milligan, Texas-bred Texas Chrome is a four-year-old son of Grasshopper out of Margarita Mistress by Naevus. The Multiple graded-stakes winner improved his record to 20-9-4-3 and surpassed the million-dollar mark to a new earnings total of $1,020,762.

Favored Texas Chrome returned $2.80, $2.10 and $2.10. Runner-up Supermason was second choice in the wagering and returned $2.10 and $2.10. F J Uncle Vic, ridden by Sasha Risenhoover, was third by 9 1/4 lengths and returned $5.00. Spider's Alibi completed the superfecta.

POST-RACE QUOTES – ASSAULT STAKES

Richard Eramia (Winning jockey, Texas Chrome)

"Before the race, I thought it was only a two horse race between Mr. Calhoun's horse and mine. I tried to get close, but I had to wait to make my run. My horse has a big heart, and I think that's why he's won over a million dollars. It's a really nice horse. I want to thank Danny and Mr. Milligan and everyone on the backside for the opportunity."

Danny Keene (Winning owner, Texas Chrome)

"Chrome's been such a blessing. He's never had easy rides but he comes through for us. I was scared tonight. Supermason ain't no slouch, but I'm glad we came out on top. I want to give thanks to Allen and all the help. They all did a fantastic job, and I'm proud of them. They didn't have much time to prepare him, but they did and we done good."

Lindey Wade (jockey, Supermason)

"My saddle was slipping, so I couldn't move up on him, but he ran a good race."

Brad Grady (owner, Supermason)

"No disgrace in running second to Texas Chrome! We've got plenty of options for him moving forward."