LOUISIANA LEGENDS NIGHT SPOTLIGHTS LOUISIANA-BREDS IN EIGHT STAKES

JOCKEY DIEGO SAENZ IS THE RIDING STAR OF THE NIGHT WITH THREE STAKES WINS

 

OPELOUSAS, LA – Evangeline Downs hosted its annual celebration of the Louisiana-bred Thoroughbred on Saturday night with Louisiana Legends Night. There were eight stakes races with purses totaling $550,000, making it the richest night of the entire Thoroughbred season.

OURS TO RUN - Louisiana Legends Mademoiselle Ours To Run

Louisiana Legends Mademoiselle
Evangeline Downs, 5-25-19, 5 1/2 furlongs
Three-Year-Olds and Upwards, Fillies and Mares, Accredited Louisiana Bred, $75,000

OURS TO RUN
Half Ours-Brown Eyed Baby
Breeder: Clifford Grum
Owner: Colonel Thoroughbreds, LLC
Trainer: J. Larry Jones
Jockey: R. Morales

2nd
Our Millie
Half Ours–Magic Madam
Breeder: Barbara V. Rowell
Owner: Ming Yan Ng
Trainer: Ron Faucheux
Jockey: T. Thornton

3rd
Tensas Thought
Custom for Carlos–Tensas Idea
Breeder: Curt Leake
Owner: Cash is King, LLC and Edward Johnston Racing Stables, Inc.
Trainer: Edward J. Johnston
Jockey: C.J. Hernandez

The first stakes race of the evening featured a returning champion in Ours to Run, who defended her victory in the $75,000 Mademoiselle by winning the race once again over a game Our Millie. Ours to Run was sent off as the biggest betting favorite of the night at odds of 1-9 and covered the 5-1/2 furlongs over the fast main track in a final time of 1:03.48 to win by 1-1/4 lengths.

Ours to Run was bred in Louisiana by Clifford Grum, is owned by Colonel Thoroughbreds, LLC, trained by Larry Jones and was ridden to victory by Roberto Morales. The 5-year-old mare is by Half Ours and is out of the Mineshaft mare, Brown Eyed Baby and has now extended her winning streak to six stakes races in a row.

 

 

SNOWBALL - Louisiana Legnds Soiree Snowball

Louisiana Legends Soiree
Evangeline Downs, 5-25-19, 8 furlongs
Three-Year-Old Fillies, Accredited Louisiana Bred, $75,000

SNOWBALL
Apriority–Inner Peace
Breeder: 4M Ranch
Owner: Tin Roof Farms LLC
Trainer: Samuel Breaux
Jockey: D. Saenz

2nd
Net a Bear
Awesome Bet–Edacious Reality
Breeder: Lora Pitre & Elaine Carroll
Owner: Maximo Lamarche and Federico Deltoro
Trainer: Allen Landry
Jockey: S. Laviolette

3rd
Cicada’s Song
Twirling Candy–Money for Makeup
Breeder: J. Adcock & Hume Wornall
Owner: John F. Youngblood
Trainer: Albert M. Stall, Jr.
Jockey: C.J. Hernandez

Snowball was sent right to the lead in the $75,000 Soiree by jockey Diego Saenz and she took that cue to lead every step of the way to score a 6-1 upset victory, finishing the one mile distance in a time of 1:39.69 to win by three-quarters of a length.

Snowball was bred in Louisiana by 4M Ranch, is owned by Tin Roof Farms, LLC, and trained by Sam Breaux. The 3-year-old filly is by Apriority and is out of the Value Plus mare, Inner Peace.

 

GALAXY THIRTYSIX - Louisiana Legends Distaff Starter Galaxy 36

Louisiana Legends Distaff Starter
Evangeline Downs, 5-25-2019, 7 furlongs
Three-Year-Olds and Upwards, Fillies and Mares, Accredited Louisiana Bred, $50,000

GALAXY THIRTYSIX
Greeley’s Galaxy-Stang Thirtysix
Breeder: Gerald L. Averett, Jr.
Owner: Arian Haxhillari
Trainer: Ron Faucheux
Jockey: D. Saenz

2nd
Tenpins Tempo
Tenpins-Perfect Time
Breeder: Elite Thoroughbreds
Owner: Elite Thoroughbred Racing LLC
Trainer: Lee Thomas
Jockey: C.J. Hernandez

3rd
Kiss That Dude
First Dude-Kiss Me Tu
Breeder: Maverick Stables, Inc.
Owner: Wayne T. Davis
Trainer: Shane Wilson
Jockey: G. Melancon

Jockey Diego Saenz then made it back-to-back stakes wins on Louisiana Legends Night by coming through with a 3-1/2 length victory aboard Galaxy Thirtysix in the $50,000 Distaff Starter. The win was the second stakes victory of 2019 for Galaxy Thirtysix, who had previously won the $60,000 Premier Night Ladies Starter Stakes at Delta Downs on February 9.

Galaxy Thirtysix was bred in Louisiana by Gerald Averett, Jr., is owned by Arian Haxhillari and trained by Ron Faucheux. The 5-year-old mare is by Greeley’s Galaxy and is out of the Forty Won mare, Stang Thirtysix.

 

SHANG - Louisiana Legends Cheval

Louisiana Legends Cheval
Evangeline Downs, 5-25-2019, 8 furlongs
Three-Year-Olds, Accredited Louisiana Breds, $75,000

SHANG
Shanghai Bobby–Humble Janet
Breeder: Cloyce C. Clark Jr.
Owner: L. William and Corinne Heiligbrodt
Trainer: Steven M. Asmussen
Jockey: R.E. Eramia

2nd
Power Jet
Power Broker–Zada Rae
Breeder: Joseph Adcock
Owner: William T. Reed
Trainer: W. Bret Calhoun
Jockey: C. R. Rosier

3rd
Inspector Eddie
Mineshaft–Happy Choice
Breeder: Clear Creek Stud LLC
Owner: Cash is King LLC
Trainer: Edward J. Johnston
Jockey: C.J. Hernandez

Shang, who was sent off as a strong 3-5 favorite in the $75,000 Cheval, rewarded the faith of the betting public with a victory by one length over the 2019 Equine Sales Derby winner, Power Jet. Power Jet tried to go last-to-first, but his challenge was rebuffed easily by Shang, who finished the one mile in 1:38.26.

Shang was bred in Louisiana by Cloyce Clark, Jr. The 3-year-old colt is owned by Corrine and William Heiligbrodt, trained by Steve Asmussen and was ridden to victory by Richard Eramia. Shang is by Shanghai Bobby and is out of the Humble Eleven mare, Humble Janet.

 

 

BERMUDA STAR - Louisiana Legends Turf Distaff

Louisiana Legends Turf Distaff
Evangeline Downs, 5-25-2019, 8 furlongs (turf)
Three-Year-Olds and Upwards, Fillies and Mares, Accredited Louisiana Breds, $75,000

BERMUDA STAR
Star Guitar–Bermuda Bride
Breeder: Tom Curtis & Wayne Simpson
Owner: Brittlyn Stable, Inc.
Trainer: Victor Arceneaux
Jockey: D. Saenz

2nd
Is Too
Midshipman–Tensas Salt
Breeder: J. Adcock & Montgomery Equine Center
Owner: Baronne Farms, LLC
Trainer: Edward J. Johnston
Jockey: C.J. Hernandez

3rd
Tap Dance Star
Star Guitar–Dance by Em
Breeder: Virginia Lazenby
Owner: Virginia Lazenby Racing Stable LLC
Trainer: Oscar Modica
Jockey: G. Melancon

The first of two turf races on the program was the $75,000 Turf Distaff and Diego Saenz collected his third stakes victory of the night with Bermuda Star, who covered the one mile over the firm turf in a time of 1:37.19. Bermuda Star got first run on the pace-setting longshot, Mi Copa Rebosa, and then fended off a challenge from the 4-5 favorite, Is Too, to win by a half-length.

Bermuda Star was bred in Louisiana by Tom Curtis and Wayne Simpson. The 5-year-old mare is owned by Brittlyn Stable, Inc. and trained by Victor Arceneaux. She is by Star Guitar and out of the Runaway Groom mare, Bermuda Bride.

 

 

MONTE MAN - Louisiana Legends Sprint 2019

Louisiana Legends Sprint
Evangeline Downs, 5-25-2019, 5 1/2 furlongs
Three-Years-Old and Upwards, Accredited Louisiana Breds, $75,000

MONTE MAN
Custom for Carlos–Sarah’s My Angel
Breeder: Val C. Murrell
Owner: Ivery Sisters Racing
Trainer: Ron Faucheux
Jockey: G. Melancon

2nd
Win Lion Win
Lion Tamer–Twinwinwin
Breeder: Rebecca Farm LLC
Owner: Farm D’Allie Racing Stable
Trainer: Allison Ramsay-Banks
Jockey: K.J. Smith

3rd
Double Barrel Man
Musket Man–Double Points Day
Breeder: Michele Rodriguez
Owner: End Zone Athletics, Inc.
Trainer: Karl Broberg
Jockey: C.J. Hernandez

There was another winner from last year’s edition of Louisiana Legends Night defending his crown on Saturday night and that was the 2018 Louisiana-bred Horse of the Year, Monte Man, in the $75,000 Sprint. Monte Man had to overcome a slow start and rally five-wide on the far turn, but he managed to survive those troubles and win by three-quarters of a length in a final time of 1:03.48 for the 5-1/2 furlongs.

Monte Man was ridden to victory by Gerard Melancon, who was also aboard for that 2018 score. The 6-year-old gelding was the second win on the night for trainer Ron Faucheux. He was bred in Louisiana by Val C. Murrell and is owned by Ivery Sisters Racing. Monte Man is by Custom For Carlos and is out of the Sutter’s Prospect mare, Sarah’s My Angel.

 

 

MAGEEZ - Louisiana Legends Turf

Louisiana Legends Turf
Evangeline Downs, 5-25-2019, 8 1/2 furlongs (turf)
Three-Year-Olds and Upwards, Accredited Louisiana Breds, $75,000

MAGEEZ
Musket Man–Spaseeba
Breeder: James A. Mcgehee Jr.
Owner: Double Dam Farm LLC
Trainer: Delmar R. Caldwell
Jockey: R. Morales

2nd
In The Navy
Midshipman–Southern Princess
Breeder: Ken Standlee
Owner: Ken Standlee
Trainer: Scott Gelner
Jockey: D. Saenz

3rd
Theoryintopractice
Into Mischief–Cayman Colada
Breeder: Cypress Bend Farm
Owner: Courtney Barousse
Trainer: Steven M. Asmussen
Jockey: R. Eramia

 

It was a return to the grass for the $75,000 Turf, which provided one of the more exciting finishes of the night, as Mageez just beat out In the Navy for the win and denied Diego Saenz a fourth stakes victory. Instead, it was Roberto Morales who collected win number two on the evening, as Mageez won by a head and finished the 1-1/16 miles in a time of 1:43.27.

Mageez is owned by Double Dam Farm, LLC, of Delmar Caldwell, who is also the trainer. The 6-year-old horse was bred in Louisiana by James A. McGehee, Jr. Mageez is by Musket Man and is out of the Spectacular Bid mare, Spaseeba.

 

 

JUST STORMIN - Louisiana Legends Starter

Louisiana Legends Starter
Evangeline Downs, 5-25-2019, 1 1/16 miles
Three-Year-Olds and Upwards, Accredited Louisiana Bred, $50,000

JUST STORMIN
Freud-Crypto Cream
Breeder: Tom Curtis & Wayne Simpson
Owner: Craig Drago
Trainer: Allen Landry
Jockey: K.D. Clark

2nd
Lucky Andy
Lookin At Lucky-Sweet Britches
Breeder: George Gary Guidry MD & Walter Dwayne Brown MD
Owner: Hardy Racing Stables LLC
Trainer: Keith G. Bourgeois
Jockey: G. Melancon

3rd
I Am Ready Again
Prado Again-Fillyocity
Breeder: Harry D. Williamson & Charles J. Guilbeau Jr.
Owner: End Zone Athletics
Trainer: Karl Broberg
Jockey: R. Morales

 

The $50,000 Starter was the final stakes race on the program and the 3-5 favorite, Just Stormin, proved best after being headed on the turn by I Am Ready Again. Just Stormin re-rallied in the stretch and ended up winning by 1-1/2 lengths in a time of 1:45.40 for the 1 1/16 miles.

Just Stormin was bred in Louisiana by Tom Curtis and Wayne Simpson. The 7-year-old gelding is owned by Craig Drago, trained by Allen Landry and was ridden to victory by Kerwin Clark. Just Stormin is by Freud and is out of the Cryptoclearance mare, Crypto Cream.

 

Live racing at Evangeline Downs will resume on Wednesday night with a nine-race program. Post time on Wednesday will be 5:50 pm Central Time.

 

For more information on the Thoroughbred season at Evangeline Downs, visit the track’s website at www.evdracing.com. Evangeline Downs’ Twitter handle is @EVDRacing and the racetrack is also accessible on Facebook at www.facebook.com/EvangelineDownsRacing.

 

 

About Evangeline Downs

Evangeline Downs Racetrack Casino & Hotel is owned by Boyd Gaming Corporation, a leading diversified owner and operator of 22 gaming entertainment properties located in Nevada, New Jersey, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana and Mississippi.  Boyd Gaming press releases are available at www.prnewswire.com.  Additional news and information can be found at www.boydgaming.com, or www.evangelinedowns.com.

 

Bermuda Star Wins Her Second Stake of the Meet, the $60,000 River Cities

Bermuda Star_9-2-2018
Bermuda Star with jockey Diego Saenz gets a head in front of Hachi and jockey Florent Geroux to capture the 33rd running of the River Cities Stakes at Louisiana Downs. Hodges Photography / Ann Switalski

River Cities Stakes
Louisiana Downs, 9-2-18, 8.5 furlongs, turf, $60,000
Three Year Olds and Upwards, Fillies and Mares

BERMUDA STAR
Star Guitar–Bermuda Bride
Breeder: Tom Curtis & Wayne Simpson (LA)
Owner: Brittlyn Stable, Inc.
Trainer: Victor Arceneaux
Jockey: Diego Saenz

2nd
Hachi (CHI)
Seeking the Dia–Habibti (CHI)
Breeder: Haras Don Alberto (CHI)
Owner: Don Alberto Stable
Trainer: Brad H. Cox
Jockey: Florent Geroux

3rd
Holiday’s Angel
Harlan’s Holiday–Senorita Corredora
Breeder: Elm Racing, LLC (KY)
Owner: Keene Thoroughbreds LLC
Trainer: Allen Milligan
Jockey: Eguard A. Tejera

 

It was another rousing finish by Bermuda Star, owned by Brittlyn Stable, Inc.to take the 33rd running of the $60,000 River Cities.

The daughter of Star Guitar won the $60,000 Louisiana Cup Distaff, run here on August 4.That race was run over a firm turf course, but due to a major downpour, the turf condition was changed to yielding.  Rider Diego Saenz has the return call for trainer Victor Arceneaux, dueling with  Hachi (CHI) and winning in a final time of 1:44.35. 

“I was really concerned with the condition of the turf course,” said Arceneaux. “I told Diego if she was not comfortable to pull her up, but all of the sudden, she went to running and the rest was history. I want to thank Wayne Simpson and Tom Curtis for breeding this horse.”

Hachi (CHI), a 5-year-old stakes-placed mare ran second under jockey Florent Geroux as the 7-5 morning-line choice.  Brad Cox trains the Chilean import for breeder and owner Don Alberto Stable.  Holiday’s Angel with Eguard Tejera up, ran third. Completing the superfecta was Calumet Farms’ Susie Bee.

This was the sixth career win for Bermuda Star ($8.40), who was sent off as the second choice in the wagering.

Limation Lights up the Toteboard in the Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs

Limation_9-2-2018-F-SM
Limation with jockey Diego Saenz wins the 39th running of the Super Derby at Louisiana Downs. Hodges Photography / Ann Switalski

Jockey Diego Saenz Wins Four Stakes on the Card

Bossier City, LA There were two very pleasant surprises this afternoon at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs.  First was the super effort by Michael Lankford’s Limation powering to victory in Super Derby 39 at odds of 26-1. Secondly, an ominous weather forecast of thunderstorms throughout the entire afternoon, did not come to fruition. Although a downpour hit the Shreveport area just before 2:30 p.m., the richest race of the 2018 Thoroughbred season went off under sunny skies.

Hall of Fame conditioner Steve Asmussen sent in two quality 3-year-olds: Winchell Thoroughbreds LLC and Willis Horton Racing LLC’s Lionite and Limation, for owner Michael Langford.  It was Limation, who delivered the winning effort at a big price! Sired by Alternation, he had won two of his seven career starts and shipped to Louisiana Downs off an eighth-place finish in the Ellis Park Derby on August 12. 

But today, he was a different horse and jockey Diego Saenz made easy work of his eight rivals. Forwardly placed in the early stages of the race, he got clear at the top of the lane, crossing the wire in 1:43.91, by a margin of 5 ¾ lengths over Lone Sailor.

Asmussen, who had never won an edition of the Super Derby before, was reached on the phone after the race. He was very pleased with the effort by Limation.

“We knew he was a talented colt and were very disappointed in his loss at Ellis,” explained Asmussen. “Every move we made in in that race was wrong. “That’s why we brought him back so soon. Today, the race set up perfectly and I am pleased for Michael Langford.”

Asmussen’s longtime assistant Darren Fleming saddled the dark bay colt and felt Limation was primed for today’s test.

“He’s been doing really well, said Fleming.  “He’d been at Remington Park and when he came down here, he seemed to come alive and know what his job was. He got a great ride. Diego and I talked in the paddock; we were hoping for a pace to run at and that’s what happened.”

“It was the first time I had been on him, but that’s the pace we wanted,” said Saenz. “As far as his finish, it’s like when you push the pedal and you’ve got gas!”

Lone Sailor who finished eighth in this year’s Run for the Roses for owner Gayle Benson’s GMB Racing.  Trained by Tom Amoss, the bay colt has faced the nation’s top three-year-olds, including Triple Crown winner Justify in both the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes. Lone Sailor ran second by a nose in the Grade 3, Ohio Derby and most recently finished a respectable third in the Grade 1, Haskell Invitational at Monmouth Park. Jockey James Graham had the mount and closed gamely as the runner-up. Amoss was hoping to win his first Super Derby, but was gracious in praise for the winner.

“He broke sharp and we had a very good trip,” said Amoss. “My fear is that we would not get the pace set-up we needed. We just couldn’t catch the winner, who is a very good horse.”

High North ran third under Florent Geroux for trainer Brad Cox, who won last year’s Super Derby with Mr. Misunderstood.  Lionite completed the superfecta with David Cabrera up, followed by G’s Turn, Bode’s Maker, McFeely, Autumn Warrior and the early pacesetter, Charlie’s Schiller.

Dismissed by the betting public, Limation rewarded his backers with a win payout of $54.80. With the winner’s share of $180,000, he boosted his career bankroll to $272,958 with three wins from eight starts.

Taylor’s Spirit Conquers Turf in the $60,000 Happy Ticket

The stakes action got underway in the second race of the card, with a field of six fillies and mares in the 33rd running of the $60,000 Happy Ticket.  

Norman Stables, LLC’s Taylor’s Spirit won her first two career races at Prairie Meadows, and was seeking her second stakes win while making her turf debut for trainer Scott Gelner.  She was forwardly placed in the early stages under jockey Florent Geroux, easily drawing clear by a margin of 3 ¼ lengths. 

Scott had her well prepared and even though this was her first time on the turf, at the quarter pole it was all over,” he said. 

Gelner credited his association with the Norman family and felt confident that she would handle the turf.

“She’s a nice filly,” said Gelner. “She worked five-eighths of a mile in company the other day and was very relaxed.”

Flatoutandfoxy ran second under Kerwin Clark with Navy Regatta completing the trifecta.  Miss Perdito Key ran fourth, followed by Given Grace.  Noble Love ran yesterday at Kentucky Downs and was scratched from the Happy Ticket.

Taylor’s Spirit ($2.20) completed the mile feature over a firm turf course in 1:37.91. Gelner said his filly will make her next start in Kentucky.

Bermuda Star Wins Her Second Stake of the Meet,  the $60,000 River Cities

It was another rousing finish by Bermuda Star, owned by Brittlyn Stable, Inc.to take the 33rd running of the $60,000 River Cities.

The daughter of Star Guitar won the $60,000 Louisiana Cup Distaff, run here on August 4. That race was run over a firm turf course, but due to a major downpour, the turf condition was changed to yielding.  Rider Diego Saenz has the return call for trainer Victor Arceneaux, dueling with  Hachi (CHI) and winning in a final time of 1:44.35. 

“I was really concerned with the condition of the turf course,” said Arceneaux. “I told Diego if she was not comfortable to pull her up, but all of the sudden, she went to running and the rest was history. I want to thank Wayne Simpson and Tom Curtis for breeding this horse.”

Hachi (CHI), a 5-year-old stakes-placed mare ran second under jockey Florent Geroux as the 7-5 morning-line choice.  Brad Cox trains the Chilean import for breeder and owner Don Alberto Stable.  Holiday’s Angel with Eguard Tejera up, ran third. Completing the superfecta was Calumet Farms’ Susie Bee.

This was the sixth career win for Bermuda Star ($8.40), who was sent off as the second choice in the wagering.

Ice City Ghost Springs the Upset in the $60,000 Sunday Silence 

The 15th running of the $60,000 Sunday Silence produced the first upset of the afternoon with Ice City Ghost breaking his maiden and winning the first stakes of his career. 

Bred and owned by Dream Walkin Farms, Inc., the gelded son of Ice Box was making just his second start and Diego Saenz, who won the Sunday Silence last year with Budro Talking, kept his mount on the lead, and finished in 1:37.63, a margin of 2 ¼ lengths ahead of Cabo’s Rumor.

Ice City Ghost ran fourth on August 10 at Evangeline Downs and trainer Carl Deville, Jr. felt his charge would improve in his next outing.

“The colt had a little trouble in his first race, but he’s been doing really well,” said Deville. “I was looking at the race and today he proved he could run.”

Cabo’s Rumor, winner of the $60,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile here on August 4, finished second for Northpointe Thoroughbreds. The son of Amanecer de Oro was making his first start on turf for trainer Steven Duke. Big Bobby Brown closed for third and American Gem, at 28-1, completed the superfecta.

Ice City Ghost rewarded his supporters with a win payout of $42.20, and earned $36,000 for the victory.  Deville was unsure of his next start.

Big Changes Prevails in the $60,000 Unbridled 

Trainer Brad Cox sent Big Changes to Louisiana Downs last year and today he returned a winner in the 40th running of the $60,000 Unbridled.  The Florida-bred son of Shipman owned by Steve Landers Racing, LLC was in pursuit of his fourth consecutive stakes race in the mile and one-sixteenth turf feature. He won the $50,000 John Henry at Evangeline Downs and followed that with a three-length victory in the West Virginia House of Delegates Speaker’s Cup Stakes at Mountaineer Park on August 4. The chestnut gelding was the favorite in last year’s Unbridled, running second to Net Gain, 

But with a confident rider by jockey Florent Geroux, he prevailed this year as the strong favorite in the 10- horse field.

“He showed a lot of grit today,” said assistant trainer Ricky Giannini.  “Florent had to move a little early to shake off the competition. He was challenged all the way down the backside, but got clear and fought on down the lane,”

Mocito Rojo under Filemon Rodriguez ran second followed by Potomac River and Magic Vow. 

This was the fourth win in a row for Big Changes ($2.80) who increased his career earnings to $381,550 with today’s score.

Yes Gorgeous Tops Louisiana-Bred Fillies in the $60,000 Elge Rasberry

The 24th running of the $60,000 Elge Rasberry drew a field of ten Louisiana-bred 3-year-old fillies. The heavy rainfall, which had been expected in Sunday’s forecast, hit as the field headed into the starting gate. Fortunately, it did not deter Yes Gorgeous, who handled the adverse conditions with little difficulty.

Owned and trained by Scott Gelner, the filly by Mass Media has been a model of consistency. Other than her first two career efforts, she has never missed a check.  She was unpressured under jockey Diego Saenz, covering the first quarter in :24.17 and the half-mile in :48.94 and finishing in 1:37.54.

“She is just a blessing from God for me and my family,” stated Gelner. “She has handled everything we have ever asked: turf, dirt, even running against the boys. I never have to tell Diego what to do; he always knows, and we couldn’t be more proud of her.”

Scrivener Stables’ Savvy Shipman, ran second by two lengths for trainer Mike Maker and rider Colby Hernandez. Bionic Butterfly, trained by Steve Flint, who has been a solid allowance level performer at Evangeline Downs for Whispering Oaks Farm, LLC, was third under Florent Geroux with Fleet Halo completing the superfecta.

Yes Gorgeous paid $6.40 for the victory; her fourth in 17 starts.  Her career bankroll now stands at $208,455. Gelner reported that they will give her a break and she is slated to return on Louisiana Champions Day at Fair Grounds.

Battle At Sea Impressive in the $60,000 A. L. (Red) Erwin

Louisiana-bred 3-year-old colts and geldings competed in the $60,000 A. L. (Red) Erwin. The feature was moved to the main track after heavy rainfall hit Bossier City at 2:25 pm this afternoon.

Trainer Mike Maker sent in Battle At Sea a son of Into Mischief for Three Diamonds Farm. This was the fifth stakes of the year for the bay colt, who made his last start in the Ellis Park Derby on August 12.

Assistant Miguel Castellanos gave jockey Colby Hernandez a leg up, and he prevailed as the heavy favorite, covering a mile and 70 yards on the sloppy track in 1:44.07

“First off, I want to thank Mike and the owners for giving me the opportunity to ride this horse,” said Hernandez. “He broke sharp and is a pretty tough horse. I didn’t want to get in his way. I called on him at the quarter-pole and he went on with it.”

Longshot Big Boy Dave Rex ran second under Juan Larrosa, followed by Greeley Went West and General Tone.

Battle At Sea returned $3.20 for the win. This was the third career win for the Louisiana-bred  colt, and his second on an off track.

Louisiana Cup 2018 Winners

Louisiana Cup Distaff 
Louisiana Downs, 8-4-18, 8 1/2 furlongs, turf,  $60,000
3YO and Upwards Accredited Louisiana Bred Fillies and Mares

Bermuda Star_8-4-2018
Brittlyn Stable’s Bermuda Star with Diego Saenz aboard captures the LA Cup Distaff at Louisiana Downs. Hodges Photography / Ann Switalski

BERMUDA STAR
Star Guitar–Bermuda Bride
Breeder: Tom Curtis & Wayne Simpson
Owner: Brittlyn Stable, Inc.
Trainer: Victor Arceneaux
Jockey: Diego Saenz

2nd
Eskenformore
Eskendereya–Madel
Breeder: Sugarland Thoroughbred, LLC
Owner: Sugarland Thoroughbreds LLC
Trainer: James E. Hodges
Jockey: Richard E. Eramia

3rd
Ourgoldshalaylee
Mauk Four–Miss Goldwin
Breeder: Leighton Hall Dunham Jr.
Owner: Pedigo Family Racing
Trainer: Randy Pedigo
Jockey: Jose Andres Guerrero

 

Louisiana Cup Filly and Mare Sprint
Louisiana Downs, 8-4-18, 6 furlongs, $60,000
3YO and Upwards Accredited Louisiana Bred Fillies and Mares

P Boo- Thomas Pompell
P Boo with jockey Thomas Pompell aboard gets a head in front of Dixie Brees to win the LA Cup Filly and Mare Sprint at LA Downs. Hodges Photography / Ann Switalski

P BOO
Dominus–Paraiba
Breeder: Spendthrift Farm LLC
Owner: Robert Lestz, Gillian and Kirk L. Harris
Trainer: Kirk L. Harris
Jockey: Thomas L. Pompell

2nd
Dixie Brees
Good and Tough–Shes Dixies Eskimo
Breeder: John Luck
Owner: Crusaders Stable LLC
Trainer: Ron Faucheux
Jockey: Richard E. Eramia

3rd
Frolic
Custom for Carlos–Comehomewithasmile
Breeder: Bill Langford
Owner: Bill Langford and Roland Bruno
Trainer: Roland L. Bruno
Jockey: Alexis X

 

Louisiana Cup Juvenile Fillies
Louisiana Downs, 8-4-18, 6 furlongs, $60,000
2YO Accredited Louisiana Bred Fillies

Silvercents_8-4-1018
Jockey Sasha Risenhoover pilots Silvercents to victory in the 8th running of the Louisiana Cup Juvenile Fillies at LA Downs. Hodges Photography / Lou Hodges, Jr.

SILVERCENTS
Goldencents–Carl’s Frosty Girl
Breeder: Steve E Holliday
Owner: Johnny B. Evans and Terry Eoff
Trainer: Terry Eoff
Jockey: Sasha Risenhoover

2nd
Raising the Ante
Cross Traffic–Ante Up Annie
Breeder: Clear Creek Stud LLC
Owner: Valene Farms LLC
Trainer: Sturges J. Ducoing
Jockey: Gerard Melancon

3rd
Whodatwhodat
Custom for Carlos–Answer to Me
Breeder: Whitney J Zeringue
Owner: Denise Schmidt
Trainer: Denise Schmidt
Jockey: Richard E. Eramia

 

Louisiana Cup Juvenile 
Louisiana Downs, 8-4-18, 6 furlongs, $60,000
2YO Accredited Louisiana Breds

Cabo's Rumor_8-4-2018
Cabo’s Rumor pulls away to win the 8th running of the Louisiana Cup Juvenile at Louisiana Downs. Hodges Photography / Ann Switalski

CABO’S RUMOR
Amanecer de Oro–The Rumor’s True
Breeder: Northpointe Thoroughbreds
Owner: Northpointe Thoroughbreds
Trainer: Steven Duke
Jockey: Emanuel Nieves

2nd
Beto
Custom for Carlos–Bella Moneta
Breeder: Jason Hall & BCS Thoroughbreds LLC
Owner: L. William and Corinne Heiligbrodt
Trainer: Steven M. Asmussen
Jockey: Diego Saenz

3rd
Victory Trip
Guilt Trip–Anne Margaret
Breeder: Terry Adcock
Owner: Norman Stables
Trainer: Lonnie Briley
Jockey: Ashley Broussard

 

Louisiana Cup Sprint
Louisiana Downs, 8-4-18, 6 furlongs, $60,000
3YO and Upwards Accredited Louisiana Breds

Monte Man_8-4-2018
Monte Man with Gerard Melancon (blue cap) aboard turns for home and goes on to win the 40th running of the Louisiana Cup Sprint at Louisiana Downs. Hodges Photography / Sam Switalski

MONTE MAN
Custom for Carlos–Sarah’s My Angel
Breeder: Val C. Murrell
Owner: Ivery Sisters Racing
Trainer: Ron Faucheux
Jockey: Gerard Melancon

2nd
Cheers to Berti
Ready’s Image–Chef Bertie
Breeder: Richard Klein & Bertram Klein
Owner: Red Rose Racing
Trainer: Brian A. Huval
Jockey: Diego Saenz

3rd
Divine Bean
Star Guitar–Good Human Bean
Breeder: Brittlyn, Inc.
Owner: Brittlyn Stable, Inc.
Trainer: Albert M. Stall, Jr.
Jockey: Colby J. Hernandez

 

Louisiana Cup Turf Classic
Louisiana Downs, 8-4-18, 8 1/2 furlongs, turf,  $60,000
3YO and Upwards Accredited Louisiana Breds

In The Navy_8-4-2018
In The Navy with Colby Hernandez aboard captures the 35th running of the Louisiana Cup Turf at Louisiana Downs. Hodges Photograhy / Ann Switalski

IN THE NAVY
Midshipman–Southern Princess
Breeder: Ken Standlee
Owner: Kendel D. Standlee
Trainer: Scott Gelner
Jockey: Colby J. Hernandez

2nd
Magic Vow
Private Vow–Whitewashed
Breeder: J. Adcock
Owner: Brittlyn Stable, Inc.
Trainer: Allen Landry
Jockey: Kerwin D. Clark

3rd
Sir Genghis
Tale of the Cat–Staria
Breeder: Randel Stutes
Owner: Gillian and Kirk L. Harris
Trainer: Kirk L. Harris
Jockey: Thomas L. Pompell

AUTUMN WARRIOR PUNCHES HIS TICKET TO THE GRADE 3, $300,000 SUPER DERBY WITH A VICTORY IN THE $60,000 SUPER DERBY PRELUDE AT HARRAH’S LOUISIANA DOWNS

Undefeated Colt Overcame a Troubled Trip to Win His Second Stakes

 

Bossier City, LA – A very exciting edition of Louisiana Cup Day at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs took place on Saturday, August 4. The card featured seven stakes and purses of $420,000, highlighted by an exciting running of the $60,000 Super Derby Prelude.

 

The stakes for 3-year-olds at the distance of a mile and one-sixteenth attracted a competitive field of 11. The top four will receive a berth to the Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby on Sunday, September 2, which is the richest race of the 2018 Louisiana Downs Thoroughbred racing season. 

Autumn Hill Farms Racing Stable Inc’s homebred Autumn Warrior was stretching out for the first time for trainer Al Stall Jr. Owned and bred by Robert Guidry’s Autumn Hill Farms Racing Stables Inc., the son of Orb out of the Posse mare, Kinsolving broke his maiden here on May 5 by 14 lengths and advanced directly into stakes company. He captured the $50,000 Lafayette Stakes for Louisiana-bred 3-year-olds at Evangeline Downs by an impressive margin of 6-3/4 lengths.

Colby Hernandez had the return call on Autumn Warrior, but had to overcome a challenging trip when In Charge Halo blazed to the front and was followed by several horses covering the first quarter-mile in :24.66. Autumn Warrior was seventh heading into the final turn, and Hernandez found himself behind a wall of horses as he headed into the stretch. He found his stride and won in 1:46.41, a neck in front of a fast-closing G’s Turn and rider Thomas Pompell.

“We had a troubled trip the whole way,” said Hernandez. “Going around the second turn, I swung him outside and when I called on him, he finished really strong, I want to thank Al and Autumn Hill Farms for giving me this opportunity.”

Stall’s longtime assistant Pam Fitzgerald saddled the dark bay colt.

“I thought he did a great job,” she said. “He kind of stumbled out of the gate which is why he had the tight finish.  He’s a beautiful, big, strong horse and kind of a handful to train, but he has the talent.”

Guidry gave Stall his first horse back in 1991 and was proud of both Stall and Autumn Warrior.

“The horse only went seven furlongs before, so this should put a lot more wind into his lungs going further,” said Guidry. “Al has a great operation and a very good woman (Pam) working for him.”

Autumn Warrior was sent off as the favorite and paid $4.00. G’s Turn, at 23-1, followed by Zanesville from the barn of Tom Amoss. McFeely was fourth under Ashley Broussard  with Bode’s Maker, Speedy Fellar, In Charge Halo, Analyze This Jet,  Dream Baby Dream Major Brown and Double Star completing the order of finish. 

 

Silvercents Closes in the $60,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile Fillies

The first stakes of the afternoon featured a field of six accredited 2-year-old Louisiana-bred fillies in the six-furlong $60,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile Fillies. 

Silvercents, who ran second in $100,000 TTA Sale Futurity for Terry Eoff and Johnny Evans at Lone Star Park on July 15, made the most of her Louisiana Downs debut under rider Sasha Risenhoover. The daughter of Goldencents circled the field with confidence, edging clear of Raising the Ante by a length. The final time over the fast main track was 1:12.93.

“We knew she was capable, said Evans. “We just left her in the hands of the best rider in the country!”

Gerard Melancon rode Raising the Ante for owner Valene Farms. Whodatwhodat under Richard Eramia ran third.  Post time favorite Atchata ran fifth.

This was the second win in four starts for Silvercents, who paid $8.40 for the win, and earned $36,000 today.

 

P Boo Withstands Inquiry in the $60,000 Louisiana Cup Filly & Mare Sprint

The $60,000 Louisiana Turf Cup Classic attracted six fillies and mares competing at the distance of six furlongs.  P Boo, trained by Kirk Harris and co-owned by Harris, his wife, Gillian and Robert Lestz, had the lead coming down the stretch under Thomas Pompell. The 4-year-old filly by Dominus dueled to the wire with Dixie Brees and jockey Richard Eramia. Eramia lodged an objection, resulting in a steward’s inquiry, but no change was made.

“We always knew this filly could run, but she struggled out of the gate,” said Harris. “We gave her a series of gate works, which really made the difference.”

Efforting was fourth, followed by l’ll Take it All and Fleet Halo. Honest Victory was an early scratch

P Boo ($5.60) crossed the wire in a speedy 1:10.17. The victory was her sixth win and second stakes victory. She increased her bankroll to $178,390.

 

Rail Opened for Bermuda Star in the $60,000 Louisiana Cup Distaff

Twelve accredited Louisiana-bred fillies and mares took to the Franks Turf Course for the $60,000 Louisiana Cup Distaff. 

Bermuda Star, owned by Brittlyn Stable, Inc., sat off a swift early pace set by Ourgoldshalayee, who set fractions of :23.36 for the first quarter and 46.99 half-mile. Rounding the far turn, jockey Diego Saenz guided the daughter of Star Guitar to the inside, and powered home. Her final time over the mile and one-sixteenth feature over a firm turf course was 1:42.08.

Bred by Tom Curtis and Wayne Simpson, Bermuda Star is trained by Victor Arceneaux, who captured her sixth career win today.

“I was a little nervous about her getting through on the rail,” admitted Arceneaux. “In the paddock, I told Diego ‘there is a lot of speed in the race’. He smiled and said ‘no problem; I’ve got it.”

Benoit was not in Louisiana Downs as her filly,  Minit to Stardom ran today in the Grade 1 Test Stakes at Saratoga.

“My thanks to Evelyn for Star Guitar,” added Arceneaux.

Eskenformore, trained by James Hodges, ran second under Richard Eramia. Ourgoldshalayee held for third with Luis Guerrero up and Royal Alexandra completed the superfecta.

Bermuda Star, sent off as the co-third choice in the wagering, paid $12.40 for her win.

 

Game Effort for Cabo’s Rumor in the $60,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile

The fourth feature of the afternoon was the $60,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile for Louisiana-bred 2-year-old colts and geldings.  A field of eight competed at six furlongs on the main track.

Cabo’s Rumor owned by Northpointe Thoroughbreds, closed gamely down the stretch under top Louisiana Downs jockey Emanuel Nieves for his first stakes score. The son of Amanecer de Oro ran fourth to Pickett in the D S Shine Futurity three weeks ago at Evangeline Downs.

It was also the first stakes winner for stallion Amanecer de Oro.

“I trained both his sire and dam, so getting this colt to the track means a lot to me,” said trainer Steve Duke. “He’s a nice horse; just needs some time to get going.”

Beto, trained by Steve Asmussen ran second with Diego Saenz up over Victory Trip.  Both also competed in in the D.S. Shine Futurity. Geauxcro completed the superfecta.

Cabo’s Runner scored his first stakes win in a final time of 1:13.01. He paid $21.40.  

Smooth Sailing for In The Navy in the 60,000 Louisiana Cup Turf Classic

The $60,000 Louisiana Turf Cup Classic attracted 11 turf runners going a mile and one-sixteenth over the Franks Turf Course. 

In the Navy, owned by Kendel D. Standlee, captured his fifth career win for trainer Scott Gelner. The 4-year-old son of Midshipman broke well and tracked early pacesetter Sir Genghis. Jockey Colby Hernandez patiently guided his mount through the early stages of the race and he strided clear at the sixteenth pole in 1:42.11.  Magic Vow was second by a half-length, followed by Sir Genghis and Theoryintopractice.

“He’s just a great turf horse,” said Gelner. “Always runs well for Colby and I am proud of the fact that he has won on each of the Louisiana turf courses. 

Gelner stated that In the Navy ($11.20) will have a break and return to action at Fair Grounds. 

 

Monte Man Keeps Streak Alive in the $60,000 Louisiana Cup Sprint

The $60,000 Louisiana Cup Sprint closed out the card with a gritty performance by Monte Man, who won his sixth consecutive race. Claimed for $25,000 in October, the 5-year-old son of Custom For Carlos is owned by Ivery Sisters Racing and trained by Ron Faucheux. 

Gerard Melancon guided him to the wire of the $75,000 Louisiana Legends Sprint at Evangeline Downs and had the return call today, winning in front-running fashion over Cheers to Berti. He covered six-furlongs in 1:10.17.

“There is always a little pressure with a streak on the line,” said Faucheux. “I didn’t expect him to go to the lead, but he just does everything right. It’s a pleasure training him.”

Cheers to Berti rallied for second under Diego Saenz, followed by Divine Bean and Queeten.

Monte Man ($4.40) will be pointed to opening day at the Fair Grounds, but Faucheux said that an out-of-state stakes is under consideration.

Live racing continues on Monday, August 6. The next major stakes day of the 2018 Louisiana Downs Thoroughbred meet is Super Derby Day on Sunday, September 2.

About Harrah’s Louisiana Downs

Located near Shreveport in Bossier City, Louisiana, Louisiana Downs opened in 1974 and was purchased by Caesars Entertainment in December, 2002. With annual Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing seasons, the track is committed to presenting the highest quality racing programs paired with its 150,000 square foot entertainment complex offering casino gambling, dining and plasma screen televisions for sports and simulcast racing.