Big World proves best in Magnolia Stakes

Big World made her first start against Louisiana-breds a memorable on Friday night, defeating older rivals by 3 1/4 lengths in the $100,000 Magnolia at Delta Downs. Sunny Oak finished second, while it was another three-quarters of a length back to Forest Lake in third.

The Magnolia, for fillies and mares at a mile, often produces starters for stakes on the Louisiana Champions Day program at Fair Grounds.

Big World ($4.20) established herself as a Louisiana-bred of note last year at 2, when she won the Grade 3 Tempted at Aqueduct. She was making her second start of the year in the Magnolia and stalked dueling leaders Kinky Vow, Sunny Oak, and Nadia Anne through an opening quarter in 23.20 seconds and a half-mile in 47.54.

Big World moved to the lead through six furlongs in 1:12.52 and proceeded to cover the distance on a track rated fast in 1:39.29. Gerard Melancon was aboard for Maggi Moss and trainer Tom Amoss.

Big World, who entered the Magnolia off a third-place finish in an optional $62,500 claiming race Sept. 29 at Belmont Park, has now won three of six starts. She earned $60,000 for her win Friday to push her earnings to $253,600.

Big World is a daughter of Custom for Carlos and was bred by Curt Leake and Elm Tree Farm.