06/04/17..Delta Downs..Vinton, La. – Following his big effort to win the Open Me a Corona Stakes at Delta Downs on April 22, Heza Louisiana Dash notched his second stakes win of the meet on Saturday night as he dominated four rivals in the $60,000 Vals Fortune Stakes (RG2) for Louisiana-breds competing at 400 yards.
Heza Louisiana Dash broke sharply from his inside post position under regular rider Gilbert Ortiz before opening up a two-length lead in mid-stretch. During the final 100 yards the 5-year-old was on cruise control and reported home ¾ of a length in front of Jes a Fast Dasher, who finished second. Jess a Saint wound up another head behind in third. The winner covered the distance over a muddy track in 19.426 seconds, which equaled a speed index of 102
The win by Heza Louisiana Dash marked the 11th of his 22-race career. The winner’s paycheck of $36,000 raised his overall bankroll to $417,641
Heza Louisiana Dash is a brown gelding by Heza Fast Dash, out of the Mr Jess Perry mare Eyejesslovelouisiana. He was bred in Louisiana by Jumonville Farms/Burnett Ranch.
Sent to the gate as the overwhelming favorite of the wagering public at odds of 3-5, Heza Louisiana Dash paid $3.20 to win, $2.20 to place and $2.20 to show. Jes a Fast Dasher returned $4.40 to place and $3.60 to show. Jess a Saint was worth $3.40 to show.
Delta Downs will begin its eighth week of live American Quarter Horse racing on Wednesday night starting at 6:15 pm CT. Next week’s action includes trials for this year’s Firecracker Derby on Friday night and the Firecracker Futurity (G2) on Saturday.
For more information about the current season visit the track’s website at www.deltadownsracing.com or on the Facebook page, ‘Delta Downs Racing’. The track’s Twitter handle is @deltaracing.
Delta Downs Racetrack Casino and Hotel, a property of Boyd Gaming Corporation (NYSE:BYD), features exciting casino action, live horse racing and fun dining experiences. Delta Downs is located in Vinton, Louisiana, on Delta Downs Drive. From Lake Charles, take Exit 7 and from Texas, take Exit 4.