The Heroine (#2) holds off Jet Black Moon (#1) in the $107,000 Louisiana Downs Maiden Stakes (not black type) on Friday.

© Ann Switalski Photography

BOSSIER CITY, LA–MARCH 24, 2023–The Heroine popped the gate under jockey Everardo Rodriguez then held off a fast charging Jet Black Moon and Blood N Coronas to win the $107,000 Louisiana Downs Maiden Stakes (not black type) in a blanket-finish Friday at the Bossier City oval.

The Heroine picked up a neck win while completing the 350 yards in :17.929 seconds, a 90 speed index into a 16 mph headwind, on a sloppy (sealed) racecourse.

A jubilant Everardo Rodriguez picked up the mount for an injured  Victor Urieta, Jr.

"People have asked me how I am feeling and am happy that after my injuries last year, I am feeling well and happy to win for Raul Galvan today!

Trainer Raul Galvan saddled the Oklahoma-bred daughter of champion sire Valiant Hero to her second career win in six starts for owner Maurilio Ornelas.

"She has trained on an off track and handled it well today," said Galvan. "We have her paid into the Sam Houston Derby."

The winning connections of The Heroine accept the Louisiana Downs Maiden Stakes trophy on Friday.
© Ann Switalski Photography

Bred by Andy Knight, from the Separatist mare Leverage Separtist, The Heroine earned $43,157 to increase her bankroll to $48,707.

Runner-up Jet Black Moon earned $18,547 for his second-place finish. Trainer Santiago Riojas, Jr. named jockey Pedro Espinosa to ride the Jet Black Patriot gelding for owner Jose Antonio De La Rosa. Tony Palermo, Sr. bred the 3-year-old in Louisiana from the Swingin Jess mare Jess A Martini.

Raise Another Pint, Aj Taylorsyawlsboos, The Perry Cartel (DH), Po Luckie (DH) and Relentless Tres competed the field. Ab Chalalo and Shes True Blue were scratched.

Additional reporting by Martha Claussen.

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About Louisiana Downs
Located near Shreveport in Bossier City, Louisiana, Louisiana Downs opened in 1974 and is owned by Rubico Acquisition Corporation. With annual Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing seasons, the track is committed to presenting the highest quality racing programs paired with its 150,000 square foot entertainment complex offering casino gambling, dining and plasma screen televisions for sports and simulcast racing.