Kodema best in Gulf Coast Classic

Kodema pulled away for a 3 1/2-length win over Spritely Walker in the $100,000 at Delta Downs on Saturday night. The mile and a sixteenth race for older horses was the closing night feature at the track, which is located in Vinton, La.

Prince Slew finished another neck back in third.

Kodema($4.60) was favored over Spritely Walker, a top Louisiana-bred who was moving into open company and shooting for his fifth straight win. From the start, Kodema was with the pace. He then drew clear, covering the distance over a fast track in 1:45. Steve Bourque was aboard the winner for trainer David Carroll. The victory was the second straight Delta stakes score for Kodema, who won the $50,000 Delta Mile on Feb. 21.

Kodema earned $60,000 for his win in the Gulf Coast, and overall has won 6 of 15 starts and $221,395. He races for Farefellow Farms.

* On the undercard, Zarb's Magic was prominent throughout for a neck win over Fine Stormy in the $40,000 Cajun Express for Louisiana-bred sprinters. He covered five furlongs in 58.53 seconds, and paid $4.60.

Carlos Gonzalez rode the winner for trainer Edward Johnston. Zarb's Luck earned $24,000 for the win, which was his 11th from 37 starts. His earnings are $517,605.