Mardi Gras ends this week in the Big Easy, but Triple Crown fans have
something to get excited about on Saturday in the $150,000 Risen Star S. (G3) at
Fair Grounds. A full field of 14 sophomores and some promising Kentucky Derby
(G1) candidates are expected for the 1 1/16-mile test, including the locally
based STORM SURGE (Storm Cat), who owns victories this meet in the LeComte S.
(G3) and Sugar Bowl S., as well as a contingent of runners from California,
Florida and Arkansas.
Four have been confirmed from California. ICED OUT (Comic Strip), who
recorded runner-up finishes in the San Rafael S. (G2) and California Breeders’
Champion S. following his maiden score, was scratched from last Saturday’s Sham
S. at Santa Anita by trainer Doug O’Neill in favor of the Risen Star. Golden
Gate Derby winner BUZZARDS BAY (Marco Bay) will invade for conditioner Jeff
Mullins. Patrick Biancone will ship in Grade 3-placed SCIPION (A.P. Indy). Recent
maiden winner SILENT BID (Grand Slam) will make his initial stakes foray for
four-time Kentucky Derby winner D. Wayne Lukas.
HARLINGTON (Unbridled) highlights a pair of Florida shippers. Out of champion
and $3.2 million earner Serena’s Song, the Todd Pletcher-trained colt is perfect
from two career starts and will make his stakes bow off a three-length allowance
win at Gulfstream Park last month. The dark bay colt is prominent on many
Kentucky Derby lists. Trainer Nick Zito said he will send either Pasco S. victor
ELECTRIC LIGHT (Silver Ghost) or the speedy CHIEF COMMANDER (Deputy Commander)
for the Risen Star.
Other likely contestants include LeComte runner-up SMOOTH BID (Rubiano) and
fourth-place finisher SILVER HAZE (Silver Deputy).