Founding Chairman sharp

Founding Chairman will go for his third straight win when he heads the field in the optional claiming feature at Louisiana Downs.

A group of nine will go 6 1/2 furlongs in the ninth race, which has a second-level allowance condition and an optional claiming price of $35,000.

Trained by Jorge Lara, Founding Chairman's recent success began in a spot similar to this in his return to Louisiana Downs after a couple of even efforts at Lone Star Park. Founding Chairman is a nine-time winner in his 45-race career and has earned more than $315,000. His running style, from just off the pace, appears well suited to this race. Leading rider Carlos Gonzalez has the call.

More Than Tricky lost to Founding Chairman when they last met in late June, but has since notched a victory of his own. He finished fourth in a stakes-quality optional claimer in his most recent start. Trainer Jerry Cart changes distances with More Than Tricky, which has proven to be a catalyst for victory in the past.

With the absence of much early speed in the race, Heart Appeal appears to be a major player if left alone up front. A third-place finisher in a similar spot two races back when caught in a speed duel, Heart Appeal appears to be in better position to control the pace here.