Louisiana Downs track report

Friday's five-furlong optional claiming feature on the turf at Louisiana Downs may prove to be a turning point for one of those in the field. Half of the eight entered will be making their first start on the grass, including the likely favorite, I'm to Lucky.

Trained by Morris Nicks, who is enjoying another fine meet with 21 wins from just 62 starters, I'm to Lucky has not finished worse than second since March 15, just before winning his maiden in early April. In three starts since the meeting began in early May, the 4-year-old I'm to Lucky has won a $25,000 optional claimer and most recently finished second in a first-level allowance. As good as Nicks's overall record has been here in recent seasons, he sports a 30-percent success rate when he moves a horse to the grass for the first time. Donnie Meche once again rides.

With established turf form a little hard to find, Total Command's one previous win over the surface looms large. Jill Parrott has taken over the training on the 5-year-old Total Command, who will be making his first start over the course. Total Command most recently finished sixth in a first-level allowance at Lone Star Park.

Broke Kitty has a nice turn of early foot that should serve him well with little other speed in this field.