Louisiana Downs: Wild Squaw prevails in Oaks

BOSSIER CITY, La. - Wild Squaw overcame a troubled trip to win the $67,850 Louisiana Breeders' Oaks at Louisiana Downs, giving her trainer, Cole Norman, and her rider, Anthony Lovato, their third win together during the track's two-day Breeders' Festival of eight statebred stakes.

Trainer Corale Richards and jockey Alex Jimenez also secured their third win of the series Sunday when Mrs. Mac ($15) turned back a bid by 1-5 favorite Mysia Jo in the 64,450 Walmac Farm Matchmaker. The Matchmaker was scheduled for turf, but rains forced the race to a muddy main track and three horses were scratched, including Sarah Lane's Oates.

In the 1 1/16-mile Oaks, Wild Squaw ($3.40) had to alter her course twice before finding room to launch her bid. When clear with a furlong to go, she shot to the lead and went on to a 3 1/2-length win over Autobesarah.

In other races Sunday, Midge Too ($2.80) won her second Victoria when she wired a field of filly and mare sprinters in the $38,750 race, finishing two lengths clear of Mike's Sister. Jockey Kirk LeBlanc rode Midge Too for trainer Jerry Cart.

In the $39,700 Laurel Lane, C J's Star ($12.80) wore down pacesetter Doc Knows Best to win the six-furlong race for 2-year-old fillies. Jockey Gerard Melancon was aboard for trainer Don Cormier Sr.