Evangeline: Bayouland Futurity

The $36,000 Bayouland Sales Futurity at five furlongs, the second of Evangeline Downs's three stakes for 2-year-olds, looks to be a classic shootout between the two qualifying trial winners, Courvoisier and Doeny Rain.

Undefeated Hail to Bag, winner of last month's first leg, the D. S. "Shine" Futurity, is not eligible because this race is restricted to horses purchased in the Louisiana Thoroughbred Breeders' Association Sale.

Courvoisier, trained by Dale Angelle, ran his record to two wins in as many starts in the first trial on July 18. Brian Hernandez put Courvoisier just behind the early leaders before challenging turning for home. Hernandez kept Courvoisier's mind on his business and they prevailed by 1 1/2 lengths in a 1:01.20 for the five furlongs. Hernandez has the return call at 120 pounds.

Doeny Rain's trial win came in much more impressive fashion as he drew out to win by over seven lengths after prompting the early pace. The win was his first in five starts and came on the heels of a fourth-place finish in the Shine Futurity. He covered the distance in a quick 59.20 seconds and has been installed as the 3-1 morning line favorite in the final.

Trainer Doris Hebert, who also has Hail to Bag, will once again give the mount to Kevin Melancon.