Illussion Artist passes two-turn test in Lookout Stakes

Illussion Artist conquered two turns in her first attempt Friday night, rolling to a 1 1/2-length win over Strike Pleasure in the $65,000 Lookout at Delta Downs. It was another two lengths back to Glide Baby Glide in third.

The Lookout was a one-mile race restricted to Louisiana-bred fillies and mares who had not won a stakes.

Illussion Artist ($2.60) had one horse beat early, as Grand Farewell was clear through fractions of 23.19 seconds for the opening quarter, 47.20 for the half-mile, and 1:12.88 for six furlongs. Illussion Artist swept to the lead soon after, had a clear advantage in the stretch, and went on to cover the distance on a fast track in 1:40.71.

Ashley Broussard was aboard for trainer Brad Cox.

Illussion Artist, a daughter of Drosselmeyer, has now won four of five career starts. The first-place check of $39,000 that she picked up Friday boosted her earnings to $135,320. Illussion Artist is owned by Steve Landers Racing LLC.