RISEN STAR LEADS LOUISIANA DERBY PREVIEW DAY AT FAIR GROUNDS

RISEN STAR LEADS LOUISIANA DERBY PREVIEW DAY AT FAIR GROUNDS

A smart field of Derby hopefuls will line up on Saturday to contest the $300,000 Risen Star S. (G2) at Fair Grounds, the highlight of Louisiana Derby Preview Day. Lecomte S. (G3) victor Wilkinson has looked the part thus far for trainer Neil Howard and should be very dangerous if he opts for this test.

Among the other threats is impressive maiden winner Ghost is Clear, Todd Pletcher's well-bred Dance City, Breeders' Cup Juvenile (G1) third Rogue Romance, local allowance victor Machen and Jean Lafitte S. winner Decisive Moment.

Also on tap for Saturday is the $150,000 Rachel Alexandra S. (G3) for sophomore fillies. The top trio from the Silverbulletday S, Bouquet Booth, Daisy Divine and Little Miss Holly, are all expected to test this oval another time. My Trusty Cat queen Gran Lioness and Delta Princess S. (G3) third Grandacious, are also likely.

The $125,000 Fair Grounds H. (G3) is shaping up to be a competitive one, with Group 1 star Gran Estreno, turf star Workin for Hops and talented Grade 2 hero Friesan Fire.

Leading the way in the $125,000 Mineshaft H. (G3) is Apart, from the barn of Al Stall, Jr. The son of flatter earned his biggest win in the Super Derby in the fall and has endured success on this oval in the past. Among the main foes are Grade 2 king Recapturetheglory and Spend A Buck H. (G3) romper Mad Flatter.