Plenty of speed signed on for starter allowance

Blue-collar types will have the spotlight Friday night at Evangeline Downs, with a starter allowance at 1 1/16 miles on the grass the evening's feature. The field of nine is a bit short on turf experience but long on speed, which should play toward Duel Threat's strength.

Trained by John Locke, Duel Threat is a confirmed stalker who has finished in the money in four of his five starts on the grass, including a third-pace finish in optional claiming company in his last start.

Wild Dinner Party, a gate-to-wire winner over the Louisiana Downs turf, appears the best qualified of the early speed. He is a three-time winner on the grass.