Evangeline: Smalltown Slew rallies

CARENCRO, La. - Smalltown Slew made his first start in stakes company a successful one as he overcame a slow start to outduel favored highweight Britt's Jules in the $50,000 Inaugural Handicap at Evangeline Downs.

Smalltown Slew edged clear in the late going to prevail by 1 1/2 lengths under Ricky Faul in 1:10.60 for the six furlongs. Britt's Jules held off a fast-closing Brandon's Marfa for the place spot, with Valid Faith finishing fourth.

Trained by Alonzo Howard for J. Patrick Lee Racing and Barryhill Farm, Smalltown Slew ($11.40) won for the second time in five starts and picked up $30,000 for his winning connections.

A son of Evansville Slew, Smalltown Slew came in to the Inaugural off a solid third-pace finish in an optional claiming race at Fair Grounds following a three-month freshening.