Evangeline Downs track report

LAFAYETTE, La. - In what has become an almost common occurrence here in this meet of longshots, another monster payoff was recorded June 20. Longshot Favorite Lil Devil ($100.20) teamed up with fellow outsiders Dawn Till Dust and Freda's Pride in the third race, a maiden special weight, to produce a $34,899.60 trifecta. The payout set a local record for the wager.

The battle for the top spot in the rider standings continues to be as hot as the weather. Heading into this week, Jamie Theriot held a 48-47 advantage over Steve Bourque. Veteran C.J. Woodley is just behind those two with 45 wins. Throw in the popular Ricky Faul with his 42 victories and fans can expect a spirited race for the top spot during the second half of the meet, which concludes on Labor Day.

The trainer standings are not nearly as close, as Dale Angelle has sent out 38 winners to open a 12-victory lead over Keith Bourgeois. Doris Hebert is third with 20 victories, and will have a strong contingent of 2-year-olds the second half of the meet.