Risen Star Stakes at Fair Grounds
Pyro staked his claim as one of the top 3-year-old colts in training yesterday at the Fair Grounds with a powerful victory in the $300,000, Grade III Risen Star Stakes, the final prep for the Louisiana Derby. Pyro went 11/16 miles in 1:44.68 and paid $3.80 to win.

Pyro, who has been working out in the mornings with Horse of the Year Curlin for trainer Steve Asmussen, was a cut above the 3-year-olds he faced yesterday and is clearly a major Kentucky Derby contender.


Turf Paradise Derby Stakes
California shipper Nikki’sgoldensteed claimed a 53/4-length win in the $100,000 Turf Paradise Derby Stakes at Turf Paradise. The Formal Gold colt covered 11/16 miles in 1:42.81. The 5-2 third choice, Nikki’sgoldensteed paid $7, $3.20, and $2.40. The exacta (7-5) was worth $18.80.