ROTATION RETURNS IN CHAMPIONSHIP FORM TO WIN THE GRADE 3, $300,000 SUPER DERBY AT HARRAH’S LOUISIANA DOWNS

Winchell Thoroughbreds LLC Homebred Recovers From Stumble in the Prelude

Bossier City, LA – When you don’t succeed at first, try again, and there was no better example of that adage than the performance of Rotation, the champion of today’s Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs.

The colt by Tapit out of the Olympio mare Free Spin, bred and owned by Winchell Thoroughbreds, LLC, was the favorite in last month’s $60,000 Super Derby Prelude.  He stumbled out of the gate, nearly unseating rider Richard Eramia, but recovered to finish fourth.

Today was a different story for the well-bred colt, who is a full brother to Tapiture. He broke from the rail, sitting off the pace set by rider Robby Albarado on Pirate’s Punch, who completed the first quarter in: 46.77 and the half-mile in :46.77. Eramia got his charge clear heading into the second turn and drew off. The final time over the fast main track was 1:43.70.

“Robby Albarado is a smart rider and controlled the pace,” said Eramia. “I got the exact trip I was hoping for. My horse stumbled last time, but really deserved to win. I want to thank Steve, the owners and everyone on the backside for doing a great job”

Hall of Fame conditioner Steve Asmussen won the 2018 Super Derby with longshot Limation for owner Michael Langford.  He was reached on the phone after the race, and was thrilled with the victory by Rotation and a game runner-up effort by his other entrant, Vangilder, who closed under C.J. McMahon for second.

“Rotation is a very handy horse,” said Asmussen. “It was tough to see the trouble he had in the Prelude. Referring to the incident as a stumble out of the gate is not doing it justice. It’s like calling the Grand Canyon a ditch! But to his credit and the team down there, including Misty Drinkwater and Ashley Trosclair, it all came together.”

“We are very proud of him,” he added.  “This was a significant win.”

Vangilder, winner of the $70,000 Charles Taylor Derby on July 20 at the Downs of Albuquerque for owner Chuck Hovitz rallied for second.

“Watching the replay of his last race, he sat off the pace and pounced home tremendously, said McMahon. “Rotation left a step behind me, which I thought he would. I sat in the pocket behind him and couldn’t have gotten a better trip.”

Pirate’s Punch, trained by Grant Forster, held on for third. The son of Shanghai Bobby, was making his stakes debut for the ownership group of Gulliver Racing LLC , Craig W. Drager and Dan Legan.  Albarado, who is just returning off a wrist injury suffered in June at Churchill Downs, won his first Super Derby in 2006 aboard Strong Contender and followed that with a win with  Departingseven years later.

Morning line favorite, Knicks Go owned by KRA Stud Farms, completed the superfecta. Trained by Ben Colebrook, he won the Grade 1, Claiborne Breeders’ Futurity at Keeneland. Dismissed by the betting public, he topped a full field of juveniles in gate-to-wire fashion at odds of 70-1.  This was the fifth graded stakes start for Knicks Go in 2019.

Prelude runner-up Trevilion, owned by Tigertail Ranch, ran fifth, followed byLeader of Men, owned by Walpole Racing LLC, who won the $60,000 Super Derby Prelude on August 3, and brought a four-race win streak at Louisiana Downs to the Super Derby.  Completing the order of finish was Adele B. Dilschneider‘s homebred Rescind;  Cabot, Paynt Battle and Fredonian.

Rotation returned $13.40 for the win and added $180,000 to his career earnings, which stand at $302,318.  Asmussen was not sure of the next start for both runners. 

The Super Derby, which had its first running in 1980, has a distinguished list of past champions, including four Kentucky Derby winners, four Preakness Stakes winners, five Belmont Stakes winners and seven Travers Stakes winners. Six previous Super Derby entrants have won the prestigious Breeders’ Cup Classic and three Super Derby winners, Tiznow, Sunday Silence and Alysheba have been voted the Eclipse Award as Horse of the Year, the industry’s highest award.

 

 

Smooth Sailing for In The Navy in the $60,000 Frank L. Brothers Stakes

One of the six turf stakes on the Super Derby card was renamed this year to honor New Orleans native Frank L. Brothers. “Frankie,” as he is known in the racing industry, began his highly successful career as a Thoroughbred trainer in Louisiana, winning nine leading trainer titles at Louisiana Downs and winning the 1998 Super Derby with Arch. He was inducted into the inaugural Harrah’s Louisiana Downs Racing Hall of Fame on July 13.

The mile and one-sixteenth Frank L. Brothers attracted an overflow field of turf specialists with three Louisiana-breds taking on open company, and it was Kendel D. Standlee’s In the Navy, who righted the ship this afternoon.  Trained by Scott Gelner, the 5-year-old son of Midshipman exited a second-place finish in last month’s Louisiana Cup Turf Classic.  Gelner enlisted the riding services of  Floyd Wethey, Jr., who took the lead and went gate to wire,  in fractions of :23.79, :47.92, 1:11.42, crossing the wire in 1:40.51.

“Scott told me to just let him do his thing and hopefully have something left for the finish,” said Wethey, who made the best of his first time riding at Louisiana Downs.  “He is a cool horse; I didn’t need to do a thing.”

The win was the seventh for In the Navy, who was sent off at odds of 7-1, returned $17.40 for the win. Late Night Mischief ran second under Tim Thornton, followed by $50,000 Louisiana Turf Cup Classic winner Theoryintopractice, also trained by Asmussen.  Kurilov, from the barn of Brad Cox, returned off a one-year layoff to complete the superfecta and Big Changes, who won the 2018 edition of the stakes, which was previously named the  Unbridled, was fifth.

 

 

High On Gin Serves Up the Upset in the $60,000 Happy Ticket 

The 33rd running of the $60,000 Happy Ticket, drew a field of ten fillies at the distance of seven and one-half furlongs on the Franks Turf Course.

Jerry Caroom’s High On Gin won her debut at Evangeline Downs on August 21 in a main track sprint on a sloppy track. Trainer Carl J. Deville was impressed with the first-time starter and decided to try her in stakes company and on the turf. With the lanky Devin Magnon in the irons, the filly by Fury Kapcori, got clear on the outside and began passing rivals. She drew off to a two-length victory in a final time of 1:30.21.

It was no surprise to her rider, who won the first race of his career.

“I’ve worked twenty horses for Carl this year and was always impressed with this filly,” said Magnon.

“I thank Jerry and each of my owners for giving me the opportunity to train for them,” added Deville.

Cedar Hill, the runner-up in the La Senorita, ran second under Lane Luzzi withEnvied, a daughter of American Pharoah completing the trifecta.  Deville also conditioned the fourth-place finisher, Thirstyamericangal, who outran her odds of 63-1 under Kerwin Clark.

 

Deviant Dominates in the $60,000 Sunday Silence

The 15th running of the $60,000 Sunday Silence showcased a completive group of ten juveniles competing seven and one-half furlongs on the Franks Turf Course. The race honors the prolific champion who won the 1989 Super Derby, Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes, and was inducted into the Harrah’s Louisiana Downs Racing Hall of Fame this year. 

Deviant, owned by Red Lane Thoroughbreds LLC, made the trip to Louisiana in pursuit of his second consecutive turf stakes victory. His most recent victory came on August 14 in the $75,000 El Joven at Retama Park. It was a winning effort for the juvenile, who drew off by a margin of 7 ¾ lengths under Lane Luzzi.

The son of veteran New York rider Mike Luzzi, made his first trip to Louisiana Downs and confidently guided the son of Daredevil to the wire. He moved from the rail to the far outside to launch his bid, with a final clocking of 1:29.96.

“He’s a real nice horse,” said Luzzi. “Hard to explain what makes him so good, other than he does everything you ask of him. The credit goes to Danny, who has worked with him from the beginning.”

Longshot Free Indeed battled gamely under rider Kerwin Clark, but had to settle for second. See Bee Salute, at 14-1, was third with Crimson Zipcompleting the superfecta.

 

 

Eskenformore Lights Up the Toteboard in the $60,000 River Cities

A full field of fillies and mares competed in the 33rd running of the $60,000 River Cities at the distance of a mile and one-sixteenth on the turf.

Sugarland Thoroughbreds LLC’s homebred Eskenformore pulled the upset at odds of 30-1 for trainer James Hodges. Leading Louisiana Downs rider Carlos Lozada guided the 6-year-old mare to victory by a margin of 1 ¾ lengths over Dagny.  Running third was Remember Daisy, who captured the $100,000 Louisiana Ladies Stakes at Fair Grounds last December before heading to Canterbury Park and most recently, Arlington Park in Chicago. Is Too, a 4-year-old daughter of Midshipmam could not replicate her effort  here last month in the $50,000 Louisiana Cup Distaff, finishing fourth under Colby Hernandez.

“She’s a nice mare,” stated Hodges. “She ran into trouble in her last race, but not today! She will run next at Fair Grounds on Louisiana Champions Day.”

 

Net a Bear Tops Louisiana-Bred Fillies in the $60,000 Elge Rasberry

The 24th running of the $60,000 Elge Rasberry drew a field of eight Louisiana-bred 3-year-old fillies and ran as the first stakes race of the Super Derby card.

Net a Bear sprang the upset for trainer Allen Landry and owner Maximo Lamarche and Federico Deltoro. The filly by Awesome Bet closed gamely in the final furlong under jockey Tim Thornton, covering a mile, over the firm Franks Turf Course in 1:36.45.

“I’ve worked her in the morning and knew she could run,” said Thornton.

Landry felt that the addition of blinkers helped his filly.

“She has always been a high strung filly,” stated Landry. “We hauled in and bandaged her really well before loading her. By the time we arrived, she had torn all of them off!”

Scootin Bayou ran second for trainer Kenneth Hargrave and rider Jose Guerrero. Irish Hustle was under Robby Albarado and Louisiana Legends Soiree champion Snowball, who was sent off as the favorite, completed the superfecta.

Net a Bear paid $23.00 for the victory; her second win in 11 starts.  Bred by Lora Pitre and Elaine Carroll, she will make her next start at Delta Downs, according to Landry.

 

 

First Stakes Victory for Run Rocket in the $60,000 A. L. (Red) Erwin

A full field of Louisiana-bred 3-year-old colts and geldings went to the gate for the $60,000 A. L. (Red) Erwin.

The son of Run Production is owned by Margaret Lanetta Haas, and had won three of his last four starts.Trainer Beverly Burress gave jockey Eguard Tejeraa leg up, and he took the lead at the top of the stretch, completing the mile turf test in 1:36.79.

It was a special moment for retired jockey Burress, who saddled just the second stakes winner of her career.

“Since we claimed him for $10,000, he’s done everything right for us,” she said. “He has been running really well; just shows his determination when he runs.”

Make Me Smile, a son of Star Guitar, ran second under Tim Thornton, followed by Bailey’s Power and Star Fitzstall.

Run Rocket was sent off as the favorite and returned $7.60 for the win and with his winner’s share of $36,000, doubled his lifetime earnings. He was bred by Israel Flores Horses, LLC.

 

 

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.

 

 

Net A Bear Tops Louisiana Bred Fillies in the Elge Rasberry

Net A Bear_9-7-2019
Timothy Thornton takes the lead and wins the Elge Rasberry Stakes aboard Net a Bear. Net a Bear is owned by Maximo Lamarche and Federico Deltoro, trained by Allen Landry. Hodges photo.

Elge Rasberry Stakes
Louisiana Downs, 9-7-19, 8 furlongs (turf)
Three-year-old, Accredited Louisiana Bred, Fillies, $60,000

NET A BEAR
Awesome Bet–Edacious Reality
Breeder: Lora Pitre & Elaine Carroll
Owner: Maximo Lamarche and Federico Deltoro
Trainer: Allen Landry
Jockey: Timothy Thornton

2nd
Scootin Bayou
Guilt Trip–Zamiracle
Breeder: Beryl B. Lopez
Owner: Randall Hargrave
Trainer: Kenneth L. Hargrave
Jockey: Jose Andres Guerrero

3rd
Irish Hustle
Data Link–Rahfees Fairy
Breeder: J. Adcock & Hume Wornall
Trainer: W. Bret Calhoun
Jockey: Robby Albarado

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

Yes Gorgeous_9-2-2018
Undaunted by sudden downpour Yes Gorgeous and jockey Diego Saenz win the $60,000 Elge Rasberry Stakes at Louisiana Downs. Hodges Photography / Ann Switalski

Elge Rasberry Stakes
Louisiana Downs, 9-2-18, 8 furlongs, turf, $60,000
Three Year Old Accredited Louisiana Bred Fillies

YES GORGEOUS
Mass Media–Isn’t She Gorgeous
Breeder: J. Adcock & Montgomery Equine Center
Owner: Scott Gelner
Trainer: Scott Gelner
Jockey: Diego Saenz

2nd
Savvy Shipman
Midshipman–Fresh
Breeder: Scrivener Stables
Owner: Scrivener Stables
Trainer: Michael J. Maker
Jockey: Colby J. Hernandez

3rd
Bionic Butterfly
Custom for Carlos–Pentatonic
Breeder: Relentless Racing LLC
Owner: Whispering Oaks Farm LLC
Trainer: Steven B. Flint
Jockey: Florent Geroux

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.

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.

SIX COMPETITIVE UNDERCARD STAKES TO BE CONTESTED ON SUPER DERBY DAY AT HARRAH’S LOUISIANA DOWNS

The Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby Anchors the Sunday, September 2nd Card

 

Bossier City, LA – While the Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby is the lone graded stake Sunday, September 2 at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs, the card will also feature six compelling undercard turf features on its 13-race program. The marquee day of the 2018 Louisiana Downs Thoroughbred meet will get underway at a special post time of 12:00 pm (Central).

 

As announced Monday, August 27, Lone Sailor who finished eighth in this year’s Run for the Roses for owner Gayle Benson’s GMB Racing, leads a field of nine in the Super Derby. 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. Lone Sailor has competed in eight graded stakes to date and is the high earner in the Super Derby field with $579,237 banked in twelve starts. Jockey James Graham has the mount aboard the 7-5 morning-line choice.

 

His top rivals include Autumn Warrior, who earned his berth into the Super Derby as the winner of the $60,000 Super Derby Prelude here on August 4 for trainer Al Stall, Jr; Iowa Derby winner High North from the barn of Brad Cox and Lionite, who will ship in for Hall of Fame conditioner Steve Asmussen.

 

The 39th running of the Super Derby will run as the eleventh race of the afternoon, with an approximate post time of 5:02 pm (Central).

 

Taylor’s Spirit Gets Top Billing in the $60,000 Happy Ticket 

The first feature of the day, the 33rd running of the $60,000 Happy Ticket, drew a field of seven fillies at a mile on the Franks Turf Course.  Norman Stables, LLC’s Taylor’s Spirit will try to remain undefeated while making her turf debut for trainer Scott Gelner. The filly by Algorithms broke her maiden at first asking on July 8 at Prairie Meadows, returning 12 days later to win the $65,000 Prairie Gold Lassie Stakes. In addition to the surface switch, this will be her first time routing, but Gelner has confidence in his filly.

 

“She’s a good mover, so I think she will handle the distance,” said Gelner. “In her stakes win at Prairie Meadows, she was headed from the get go, but dug in for the win.”

 

Jockey Florent Geroux has the call and faces six rivals including Noble Love owned by Love Partnership Interests, LP. The daughter of Noble Mission (GB) ships in off a  maiden special weight turf victory at Ellis Park for trainer Bret Calhoun. Three fillies with recent turf wins include Brittlyn Stable, Inc.’s Flatoutandfoxy, Navy Regatta owned by Patricia and Kevin Fontenot and Miss Perdito Key, who scored here on July 24 for her owners, Fletcher B. Clement and Michael Alexander, Jr.

 

The Happy Ticket will run as the second race on the Super Derby program.

 

Cabo’s Rumor Makes His Turf Debut in the $60,000 Sunday Silence

The fourth race of the afternoon  is the $60,000 Sunday Silence with eight juveniles competing at one mile on the Franks Turf Course. This is the 15th edition of the race named in honor of the prolific champion who won the 1989 Super Derby, Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes.

 

It will mark the turf debut for several of the colts and geldings in the field, including Cabo’s Rumor, winner of the $60,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile here on August 4. Owned by Northpointe Thoroughbreds, the son of Amanecer de Oro closed gamely down the stretch under top Louisiana Downs jockey Emanuel Nieves for his first stakes score. The bay colt will make his first start on turf, but trainer Steven Duke, thinks he will handle the surface switch.

 

“He’s been training very well and we gave him a work on the turf (on August 25),” said Duke. “Both his mom and dad won on the grass. This stakes is a mile, but he’s pretty fit and we’ve always believed he could go longer.”

 

Cabo’s Rumor will face several 2-year-olds who recently broke their maiden. Future Abundance, a son of Overanalyze won at first asking on August 11 at Prairie Meadows for owner Greg Brous.  The Iowa-bred gelding is trained by Gelner and will be ridden by Geroux. Golden Tooth Ranch LP’s Fredonian scored a three-length victory in his debut here on August 13. Sired by The Factor, he is trained by Jason Meaux, who will give a leg up to Eguard Tejera.Breaking from the far outside is Big Bobby Brown, a son of Shanghai Bobby, who scored by two lengths under Aubrie Green at Louisiana Downs on August 1 for owners Robert Joseph and Dana Salome.

Overflow Field of Fillies and Mares Entered in the $60,000 River Cities

A full field of fillies and mares will compete in the 33rd running of the $60,000 River Cities at the distance of a mile and one-sixteenth on the turf.

 

Hachi (CHI), a 5-year-old stakes-placed mare will make her Louisiana Downs debut under jockey Florent Geroux as the 7-5 morning-line choice.  Brad Cox trains the Chilean import for breeder and owner Don Alberto Stable. Cox won last year’s edition of the race with Quinta Verde (IRE), who began her career in Europe and picked up her first stakes in the River Cities.

 

Trainer Mike Maker sends in Calumet Farms’ Susie Bee, a 6-year-old mare by noted turf sire, English Channel. She has won seven turf races and is the high earner in the field with $382,423. Colby Hernandez will ride the Kentucky-bred, who notched her most recent black-type win on April 28 in the $75,000 Powder Break Stakes at Gulfstream Park.

 

“I hope she likes the Louisiana Downs turf as much as the Gulfstream Park turf course,” said Maker. “She is a game mare and always gives it her all.”

 

The field also includes the winner and runner-up from the $60,000 Louisiana Cup Distaff, run here on August 4. Bermuda Star, owned by Brittlyn Stable, Inc., sat off a swift early pace before closing gamely under rider Diego Saenz for her third career turf victory. The daughter of Star Guitar is trained by Victor Arceneaux and will break from the rail.  Eskenformore, trained by James Hodges, ran second for owner Sugarland Thoroughbreds LLC.  Jockey Gerardo Mora will ride the 5-year-old mare by Eskendereya, who will be making her 11th lifetime start.

 

The River Cities will run as the ninth race of the afternoon with an estimated post time of 3:59 pm.

 

Big Changes Leads the Field in the $60,000 Unbridled

Trainer Brad Cox sends Big Changes in the 40th running of the $60,000 Unbridled.  The Florida-bred son of Shipman owned by Steve Landers Racing,LLC is 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, Big Changes will be ridden by jockey Florent Geroux, as the even-money choice on the morning line.

 

Silent Citizen, a 3-year-old colt sire by Hat Trick (JPN), will make his Louisiana Downs debut for trainer Efren Loza, Jr. Owned by W. Mike Anderson, the dark bay colt has won four of his seven career efforts, including the $50,000 Stanton Stakes on June 13 at Delaware Park.

 

Mocito Rojo, who ran fourth to Big Changes in the John Henry Stakes on July 7, is trained by Shane Wilson. The 4-year-old colt owned by Wayne T. Davis, will be ridden by Filemon Rodriguez.  Louisiana-bred Magic Vow returns to Louisiana Downs for owner Brittlyn Stable, Inc. and conditioner Allen Landry. The 4-year-old son of Private Vow ran second in the $60,000 Louisiana Cup Turf Classic here on August 4. Kerwin Clark has the return call.

 

Ten Louisiana-Bred Fillies Take to the Turf 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.  Yes Gorgeous, owned and trained by Scott Gelner, has been installed as the 5-2 choice in the one-mile turf feature.

 

The filly by Mass Media will be making her 17th start, and other than her first two career efforts, has never missed a check. This will be her first race at Louisiana Downs.

 

“She is a blessing from God for me and my family,” stated Gelner. “Granted, she has been a bridesmaid nine times, but she always gives 100% every time she runs. She is a very sweet filly and (jockey) Diego (Saenz) knows her well.”

 

Scrivener Stables’ Savvy Shipman, began her career at Fair Grounds and has made four starts at Indiana Grand this year. Trainer Mike Maker conditions the daughter of Midshipman, who will be ridden by Colby Hernandez.  Another capable filly is Bionic Butterfly, trained by Steve Flint, who has been a solid allowance level performer at Evangeline Downs for Whispering Oaks Farm, LLC. Florent Geroux will ride the daughter of Custom for Carlos in the Elge Rasberry.

 

Drewcitable Leads the Field in the $60,000 A. L. (Red) Erwin

Louisiana-bred 3-year-old colts and geldings will take to the Franks Turf Course in the $60,000 A. L. (Red) Erwin.  Norman Stable LLC’s Drewcitable will be seeking his fourth win in five starts for trainer Lonnie Briley. The son of Artie Schiller will break from post position eight as the 5-2 morning line favorite.

 

“He’s coming into this well, but it’s been six weeks since his last race,” said Briley. “We entered him in a one-mile race at Evangeline that did not fill.  This race came up pretty tough, but I like our chances.”

 

Regular rider Diego Saenz has the call and Briley also commended his owner, Robbie Norman.

 

“Robby is a super good guy,” added Briley. “It’s a pleasure to train for him!”

 

Trainer Mike Maker sends in Battle At Sea, a son of Into Mischief for Three Diamonds Farm. This will be the fifth stakes of the year for the bay colt, who will be ridden by Colby Hernandez.

 

2017 Sunday Silence winner Budro Talking is also entered for owner Jerry Durant and trainer Mike Neatherlin. The gelded son of Tale of Ekati will be ridden by Chris Rosier.

 

 

Jockey Autograph Signing to Benefit PDJF Set for Sunday, September 2

As part of Sunday’s Super Derby festivities, fans are invited to participate in a Jockey Meet and Greet and Autograph Signing in the Harrah’s Louisiana Downs main entrance area at 10:30 am. A photo of the riders will be available for $5.00 with the proceeds to benefit the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund (PDJF).

 

 

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.

 

BIG GAME BABY TAKES THE $75,000 ELGE RASBERRY AND JACK SNIPE’S SCORES THE UPSET IN THE$75,000 A. L. (RED) ERWIN AT HARRAH’S LOUISIANA DOWNS

Bossier City, LA – The final two stakes of the Thoroughbred racing season at Louisiana Downs, the $75,000 Elge Rasberry and the $75,000 A. L. (Red) Erwin, were run on Saturday, September 23. Both stakes were written for 3-year-old graduates of the Louisiana-bred Sale and were run at the distance of one mile on the Franks Turf Course.

Big Game Baby Edges Out Bermuda Star in the $75,000 Elge Rasberry

Big Game Baby
Big Game Baby with Gerardo Mora aboard wins the 23rd running of Elge Rasberry at Louisiana Downs. Hodges Photography / Samuel Switalski

 

Elge Rasberry Stakes
Louisiana Downs, 9-23-17, 1 mile (turf)
3YO Louisiana Bred Sales Graduate Fillies, Purse $75,000

BIG GAME BABY
Gold Tribute – Hot Talent
Breeder: Ronald P. Webb
Owner: Eat My Dust LLC
Trainer: Joseph M. Foster
Jockey: Gerardo Mora

2nd
Bermuda Star
Star Guitar–Bermuda Bride
Breeder: Tom Curtis & Wayne Simpson
Owner: Brittlyn Stable, Inc.
Trainer: Victor Arceneaux
Jockey: Diego Saenz

3rd
Our Sweet Sydni
Into Mischief–Our Dalila
Breeder: Brett A. Brinkman
Owner: Ironheart Farms
Trainer: Brett A. Brinkman
Jockey: Gerard Melancon

 

The 23rd running of the $75,000 Elge Rasberry drew a field of 12 fillies.  Big Game Baby, a daughter of Gold Tribute, owned by Eat My Dust LLC, made her third trip to the winner’s circle and her first stakes win, closing gamely under leading rider Gerardo Mora.

 The early pace was set by Swifty Cat and jockey Emanuel Nieves, who covered the first quarter-mile in :25.25 and the half-mile in :49.79. Both Big Game Baby and heavy favorite Bermuda Star began to quicken strides as they rounded the final turn.  Jockey Diego Saenz aboard Bermuda Star, lodged a claim of foul against Mora as they bumped nearing the wire, but the stewards took no action. Big Game Baby covered one-mile in 1.38.02 over a firm turf course.

This was just the second turf start for runner-up Bermuda Star, owned by Brittlyn Stable, Inc and trained by Victor Arceneaux., The filly by Star Guitar had won three starts this year, including the Equine Sales Oaks on May 5 at Evangeline Downs.  Our Sweet Syndi ridden by Gerard Melancon ran third and Swifty Cat completed the superfecta.

Bred by Ronald P. Webb, Big Game Baby is trained by Joey Foster, who is the top conditioner this season at the Bossier City racetrack.  She has made five starts this meet, running fifth in the Opelousas Stakes on August 5. Sent off at odds of 6-1, the gray filly returned $14.00 for the win and earned $45,000 for the Elge Rasberry victory.

 

Jack Snipe’s Pulls the Upset in the $75,000 A. L. (Red) Erwin

Jack Snipe's
Jack Snipe’s with Jansen Melancon aboard wins the 23rd running of the A.L. (Red) Erwin Stakes at Louisiana Downs. Hodges Photography / Ann Switalski

 

A.L. (Red) Erwin
Louisiana Downs, 9-23-17, 1 mile (turf)
3YO Louisiana Bred Sales Graduates, Purse $75,000

JACK SNIPE’S
Half Ours–Rhodelia
Breeder: Clear Creek Stud Llc
Owner: Jeff Drown and Gary Scherer
Trainer: Gary M. Scherer
Jockey:  Jansen Melancon

2nd
Fee Do
Forefathers–Snake Proof
Breeder: Leonard Warf
Owner: Keith Plaisance
Trainer: Edward J. Johnston
Jockey: Emanuel Nieves

3rd
Culp’s Hill
Eddington–Pussy Footin
Breeder: Southern Legacy Thoroughbreds, LLC
Owner: Southern Legacy Thoroughbreds, LLC
Trainer: Joseph M. Foster
Jockey: Timothy Thornton

Jack Snipe’s made the most of his turf stakes debut, defeating a field of 10 colts and geldings in the second feature of the afternoon, the $75,000 A. L. (Red) Erwin.

Owned by Jeff Drown and Gary Scherer, the son of Half Ours won the six-furlong Louisiana Futurity last December at Fair Grounds. He entered today’s stakes off a tenth-place finish in the Mystic Lake Derby over a yielding turf course at Canterbury Park on August 17.  Whether the firm turf or pace scenario made the difference, he rallied in the final stages of the race at odds of 13-1. Jockey Jansen Melancon picked up the mount from Denny Velazquez and delivered a well-timed ride in a final time of 1.35.75.

 

The early fractions of :23.84 and :47.05 were set by Southern Legacy Thoroughbreds LLC’s

​ 

homebred Culp’s Hill under jockey Tim Thornton. Trained by Foster, the son of Eddington was

​ ​

looking for his fourth victory of the meet. He held for third-place as Fee Do edged him for the

place. Owned by Keith Plaisance, Fee Do, a gelded son of Forefathers made his stakes debut with

​ ​

jockey Emanuel Nievesaboard.  Magic Vow, the high-earner in the field saved ground on the

final turn to finish fourth.

This was the first win in four starts this year for Jack Snipe’s, who is trained by Scherer. He rewarded his supporters with a win payout of $29.80.

FINAL TWO STAKES OF THE HARRAH’S LOUISIANA DOWNS 2017 THOROUGHBRED RACING SEASON TO BE RUN ON SATURDAY

Bossier City, LA –The final two stakes of the Thoroughbred racing season at Louisiana Downs, the $75,000 Elge Rasberry and the $75,000 A. L. (Red) Erwin, will be run on Saturday, September 23. Both stakes are written for 3-year-old graduates of the Louisiana-bred Sale and will be run at the distance of one mile on the Franks Turf Course.

 

Bermuda Star Leads the Field in the $75,000 Elge Rasberry

The 23rd running of the $75,000 Elge Rasberry drew a field of 12 fillies. Bermuda Star, owned by Brittlyn Stable, Inc., is the 6-5 morning line favorite. Trained by Victor Arceneaux, she has won three of her six starts this year, most notably the Equine Sales Oaks on May 5 at Evangeline Downs. Sired by Star Guitar, the gray filly will be ridden by Diego Saenz, who piloted three stakes winners on Super Derby Day.

“She’s only run once on the turf, but won the race easily,” said Arceneaux. “Diego didn’t even push her.”

Chases Dixie Belle, winner of the 2016 Louisiana Cup Juvenile Fillies for owner Bobby Salome, is also entered. The daughter of My Pal Charlie prepped for this stakes in an allowance on September 11. Trainer Charles Hukill will give a leg up to jockey Aubrie Green.  She will break from post position six as the 4-1 second choice.

Louisiana Downs leading trainer Joey Foster will saddle Big Game Baby, a Gold Tribute filly who has two wins this meet. Owned by Eat My Dust LLC, Big Game Baby ran fifth in the Opelousas Stakes on Louisiana Cup Day. Gerardo Mora, the meet’s top jockey, has the call.

The Elge Rasberry will run as race 5, The field, in post position order, with riders, from the rail is:

Swifty Cat, Emanuel Nieves; Bless d’Cat, Williams Naupac; Tinkerbella, Tim Thornton; Sabe Marcelete, Kevin Smith; Our Sweet Syndi, Gerard Melancon; Chases Dixie Belle, Aubrie Green; Debbyz Wingz, Jose Guerrero; Casual Cool, Jansen Melancon; Blessed Song, Alfredo Contreras; Bermuda Star, Diego Saenz and Big Game Baby, Gerardo Mora.

 

Magic Vow Gives Turf Another Try in the $75,000 A. L. (Red) Erwin

Colts and geldings will compete in the second feature of the afternoon, the $75,000 A. L. (Red) Erwin.

Trainer Allen Landry conditions Magic Vow, the high-earner in the 12-horse field. The son of Private Vow out of the Broad Brush mare Whitewashed has earned $206,500 for Brittlyn Stable, Inc. This will be the second turf start for the bay gelding, who ran a game third to Super Derby champion Mr. Misunderstood in the August 5 Super Derby Prelude.

“There’s no shame in running third to a horse who is undefeated on the turf,” said Landry. “Boo Boo” (jockey Kerwin Clark) said he ran a little green the first time on the grass, but thinks he will improve on Saturday. He fits him well.”

Landry ran second in last year’s edition of the stakes with He’s a Lady Tamer, who left the gates at odds of 26-1 with jockey Steve Bourque in the irons.

Fee Do brings a three-race win streak into this one-mile turf stakes. Owned by Keith Plaisance, the gelded son of Forefathers has risen up the ranks from claiming to the allowance level nicely for trainer Edwin J. Johnston. The second choice in the morning line, at 7-2, will break from post position 11 in his stakes debut with jockey Emanuel Nieves aboard.

Southern Legacy Thoroughbreds LLC’s homebred Culp’s Hill will make his stakes debut for Joey Foster. The son of Eddington has won three races this meet, and prepped for this with a gate-to-wire turf allowance victory on August 23. Rider Tim Thornton has the call.

“He may be in a little deep, but gives a solid effort every time he runs,” said Foster.

The field for the A. L. (Red) Erwin, from the rail is: Magic Vow, Kerwin Clark; Tigerstorm, Alexander Castillo; Culp’s Hill, Tim Thornton; Paddy O’Lionel, Gerardo Mora; Fireblaster, Diego Saenz; Im a Cowboy Too, Arturo Aparicio; Score’s Choice, Aubrie Green; Jack Snipe’s, Denny Velazquez; Calmack, Jarred Journet; Impressive Student, Gerard Melancon; Fee Do, Emanuel Nieves and Drewmisterio, Roberto Morales.

 

Louisiana Downs Trainer and Jockey Standings

Through September 18, last year’s leading trainer Joey Foster continues to hold a commanding lead over his fellow conditioners with 62 wins. H. B. Johnson is second with 26 wins to date and Ronnie Ward is in sole possession of third place with 18 wins. Sarah Delany follows in fourth; she has each saddled 15 winners.

Gerardo Mora has taken the lead in the jockey standings with 71 wins. Aubrie Green continues her strong showing and has moved into second place with 60 trips to the winner’s circle. Richard Eramia, who was on top for much of the season before he departed to ride at Remington Park, is third with 59 victories.  Jose Guerrero rounds out the top four with 51 wins.

The very tight battle for leading owner honors continues with Jorge Gomez on top with 11 wins. Red Rose Racing follows closely with ten wins and Patti Turner, Beverly Burress, Jamie C.  Pastor and Anthony Faulk have each won nine races each in the 2017 Thoroughbred meet.

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.

For further information, please contact:

Trent McIntosh  |  Assistant General Manager
318-752-6980
8000 East Texas Street | Bossier City, LA 71111
www.caesars.com

IMPRESSIVE SUPER DERBY SATURDAY FOR JOCKEY DIEGO SAENZ AT HARRAH’S LOUISIANA DOWNS

Bossier City, LA – While jockey Diego Saenz did not win the richest race of the Super Derby Day card Saturday at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs, he certainly had a highly rewarding afternoon.

The 38-year-old rider won three of the seven stakes on the program, with a close second-place finish in the $60,000 Unbridled.

Saenz won the first turf feature of the day, the $60,000 River Cities, guiding the heavily favored Quinta Verde (IRE) to victory for trainer Brad Cox. Saenz had never ridden the 5-year-old mare owned by Swift Thoroughbred Inc. before, but settled her comfortably behind the pacesetters. She unleashed her powerful closing kick at the eighth-pole and drew off by 3 ¼ lengths.

“Looking at the program, I thought I had some very good chances for the day,” said Saenz. “I was fortunate to be riding nice horses for top trainers.”

Next up was the $60,000 Sunday Silence for 2-year-olds and his second time to ride Jerry Durant’s Budro Talking, who was making his stakes debut for trainer Danny Pish.

The Louisiana-bred son of Tale of the Cat broke his maiden on July 27 at Evangeline Downs, sprinting on the main track. Pish felt that he could be versatile and compete well on turf, and he was certainly correct.  With Saenz back in the irons, the bay colt sat off the early fractions of :24.17 and :48.71, drawing clear and crossing the one-mile finish line in 1:37.78.

“He’s getting better and better,” said Saenz. “He relaxed for me and that’s what it takes when a young horse is stretching out.”

Perhaps Saenz’ most impressive ride came in the in the $50,000 Tellike Stakes, when he rode

Curtis C. Green’s homebred Justa Lady for trainer Steve Asmussen. Again, Saenz had never ridden the 4-year-old filly by More Than Ready, but he was content to let longshot Our Valor set the pace. In sixth position approaching the far turn, he got his mount clear and she responded with a strong rally, drawing clear in the five-furlong turf sprint.

“I saw (Roberto) Morales get to the lead quickly, but felt he would not hold his speed,” he stated. “My filly had plenty left and came running.”

Saenz was hoping for a fourth stakes victory aboard the heavily favored Big Changes, also trained by Cox, in the Unbridled. Net Gain, an Iowa-bred 3-year-old made a sweeping move on the far turn under rider Glen Corbett. Saenz, who finished second, lodged an objection against Corbett for interference, but the stewards reviewed the replay and took no action.

“That’s part of racing,” said Saenz. “You state your case and have to accept the decision.”

Saenz, who was born in Chihuahua, Mexico, has been riding professionally since 2004 and is currently ranked 56th in Equibase North American jockey standings. He was won 1,746 wins from 9,218 starts in his 14-year career.

He and his wife have three children and reside in Carencro, a suburb of Lafayette, Louisiana. Saenz will head to Delta Downs, where he has won three leading rider titles.

 

Update on Super Derby Winner Mr. Misunderstood

Mr. Misunderstood, owned by Flurry Racing Stables LLC, scored a definitive victory in the season’s marquee race, the $200,000 Super Derby last Saturday.

The gelded son of Archarcharch, shipped here last month undefeated on the turf, and punched his ticket to the Super Derby with a win in the $60,000 Prelude. Then owner Staton Flurry, trainer Brad Cox and jockey Chris Rosier just had to wait to see who they would be running against in the Super Derby.

“We knew what we had in Mr. Misunderstood,” said Flurry. “After the noms for the Super Derby came out, it was just the anticipation of who would enter and what he would run against. It looked like Sonneteer was our biggest threat, but speed was really holding Saturday afternoon, so he was more forwardly placed that we expected.”

Nonetheless, Mr. Misunderstood prevailed as the favorite and a memorable post-race celebration ensued for Flurry, jockey Chris Rosier and Ricky Giannini, assistant to Cox.

“It was great,” said Flurry. “I love running at Louisiana Downs; my aunt and uncle live near Shreveport and there were lots of family and friends there to enjoy our win. My phone was turned off, but thirty minutes later, I checked and had over 150 texts and Facebook messages.”

Flurry, 27, resides in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and is passionate about every facet of racing, from studying sale catalogs, training progress of his horses, to evaluating race options. He signed a sale $130,000 sale ticket for Mr. Misunderstood at the Ocala Breeders’ Sale and admitted that there were some doubts about the Kentucky-bred in the early stages of his career.

“Let’s just say that we weren’t very high on the horse last year,” admitted Flurry. “He was always balanced, but didn’t show much in his morning works.  Once we gelded him, he became more focused and found his way on the turf.”

Cox was pleased with the win and reported that Mr. Misunderstood returned safely to his base in Kentucky.

“He ran really well,” Cox told Mary Rampelinni of the Daily Racing Form. “Obviously, we’re super-pleased with the ride and where he was positioned early in the race with the lack of pace. He kicked on well. We’ll try to keep him with the 3-year-olds the rest of the year.”

 

Two More Stakes to Be Contested This Month at Louisiana Downs​

The final two stakes of the season, the $75,000 A. L. (Red) Erwin and the $75,000 Elge Rasberry, will be run on Saturday, September 23. Both stakes are written for 3-year-old graduates of the Louisiana-bred Sale and will be run at the distance of one mile on the Franks Turf Course.

 

Louisiana Downs Trainer and Jockey Standings

Through September 12, last year’s leading trainer Joey Foster continues to hold a commanding lead over his fellow conditioners with 60 wins. H. B. Johnson is second with 23 wins to date and Ronnie Ward is in sole possession of third place with 16 wins. Sarah Delany follows in fourth; she has each saddled 15 winners.

Gerardo Mora has taken the lead in the jockey standings with 69 wins. Richard Eramia, who was on top for much of the season before he departed to ride at Remington Park, is second with 59 victories. Aubrie Green continues her strong showing and has moved into third with 58 trips to the winner’s circle.  Jose Guerrero rounds out the top four with 47 wins.

Jorge Gomez and Red Rose Racing are tied at the top of the owner’s leaderboard with ten wins each.  Patti Turner Jamie C.  Pastor and Anthony Faulk have won nine races each in the 2017 Thoroughbred meet.    

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.

For further information, please contact:

Trent McIntosh  |  Assistant General Manager
318-752-6980
8000 East Texas Street | Bossier City, LA 71111
www.caesars.com