Angelonmyshoulder going for the win

A conservative approach is being taken with Angelonmyshoulder in the sixth race Monday at Louisiana Downs. He is returning to the overnight ranks for a $30,000 optional claimer one start after finishing second to one of the meet's top turf horses in the $50,000 Shiskabob.

Mogumbo won the Shiskabob and is headed next to the $75,000 Unbridled on the Super Derby undercard Sept. 19. As for Angelonmyshoulder, his connections are taking their best shot in the optional claimer, which carries third-level allowance conditions. It will be run at 1 1/16 miles on turf. A field of eight older horses is set, including Gamble on Rocket, who was second at this level last time, and multiple stakes winner Dreamsandvisions.

Angelonmyshoulder came to Louisiana this spring after campaigning in Southern California, and promptly reeled off two straight turf wins over the local course. In the one-mile Shiskabob, he rallied for second in a race that went in a quick 1:34.80. Angelonmyshoulder earned what ranks as this field's best last-race Beyer Figure, an 86.

George Northrop Jr. trains Angelonmyshoulder for Louis W. Smith.

w Jockey Ramsey Zimmerman is named on Angelonmyshoulder, but he will not be riding on Monday, said his agent, Richard Price. Zimmerman is awaiting the results of tests taken on one of his knees. He is the third leading rider at Louisiana Downs.