The Nomination Is In: March 14, 2009 - The Louisiana Derby Grade 2

The Turk was blown away by this field. I could have made an arguement for at least six of the horses here to win. If I had one race I could be at today, it would be this one. I'm happy to see at least one California runner, Papa Clem, ship in to test on dirt and take a shot at the $600,000 purse. For the sharp eyed amongst you, that fine looking colt is Pyro, winner of the 2008 Louisiana Derby. Photo by Vanessa Ng.

Fair Grounds Race 9: The Louisiana Derby, Grade II. 1 1/16 miles on real dirt for 3 YOs.



I made the strongest arguement with myself for Friesan Fire. The two time Grade III winner is working very fast and I like the current form , the J/T stats, and just about everything about this A.P. Indy colt, especially the fact he doesn't have A.P. in his name. This colt is no lock, not by a long stretch, so even a win bet at >3-1 is possible. With so many combinations I think that could fill out a ticket, I'm going to focus on a few, Friesan Fire included, to put together some value exactas and Tri's.

In the next gate is Papa Clem. Trainer Gary Stute clearly does things his way, as evident by the work routine he has Papa Clem doing, and his decision to leave an easier San Felipe behind for this. The Turk likes this move quite a bit, and Papa Clem doesn't have to win this, just look impressive on the dirt and I'll be happy.

Here I go again as well, picking Giant Oak to do well based on very little performance. The Giant's Causeway son needs a statement race today, and must win or place in my mind to justify the high regard he is given.

Patena, Terrain, Uno Mas, and Flying Pegasus will all be competitive. I'll be watching, but betting, I'm not so sure yet.