Big Fred captures Vulcan

HOT SPRINGS, Ark. - Big Fred was with the pace throughout then drew off to a seven and three-quarter length win over first-time starter Ivor's Empire in the $50,000 Vulcan Stakes at Oaklawn Park on Sunday.

The six furlong race was restricted to 3-year-olds bred in Alabama. It was held at Oaklawn because Hurricane Katrina disrupted the meet at Fair Grounds in New Orleans, which has been the host site of the Vulcan.

Big Fred ($3.60) dueled with Valid Run through fractions of 21.95 seconds for the opening quarter and 46.02 for the half-mile mark. The eventual winner took over into the stretch, and went on to cover the distance in 1:11.61.

John McKee rode the winner for trainer Bobby Barnett.

Big Fred earned $30,000 for the win, which was his second career victory from four starts. He has now earned $47,955. Big Fred is a son of Royal Empire, and he races for Freddie Hyatt. He was bred by Bobby Pruitt.