Saturday’s Louisiana Cup Day at Louisiana Downs proved to be a triumphant event for favorites and jockey Harry Hernandez, who captured four wins throughout the card.
Star Rock Star Shines in Louisiana Cup Turf Classic
Anthony Lowrie’s Star Rock Star, favored at 3-2 odds, mounted a late charge to narrowly defeat longshot Good and Stout by half a length in the $75,000 Louisiana Cup Turf Classic. This marked his third victory at the current meet and gave jockey Harry Hernandez his fourth win of the day. Starting from the outside post 11, Star Rock Star took early control, setting measured fractions before holding on to finish 1 1/16 miles in 1:41.76 on firm turf. Bons Tempo Roule finished third.
Jockey Hernandez praised the horse’s competitive spirit and stride, crediting the team behind him for providing outstanding opportunities in his first year riding in Louisiana. Trainer Shane Wilson noted the horse’s loving of a challenge and confidence in his ability to fend off competitors when pressured.
Star Rock Star, sired by Star Guitar out of After Thought (by Fusaichi Pegasus), now holds a record of 5-2-2 from 18 starts with earnings of $213,867, paying $3.40 to win.
Mangum Delivers Upset in Louisiana Cup Sprint
Earlier in the day, Hernandez guided Mangum to a 4-1 upset in the $75,000 Louisiana Cup Sprint. Achromedoutcat finished second, followed by Sounds Like Power, while favorite Benji Star settled for fourth.
Highly Wicked Dominates Louisiana Cup Distaff
Making her first start at Louisiana Downs after 27 career races, girl favorite Highly Wicked, trained by Sam David Jr., lived up to expectations in the $75,000 Louisiana Cup Distaff. The 6-year-old Wicked Strong mare secured her 15th career win, fifth this year, by a commanding 4 3/4 lengths. Ridden by Marcelino Pedroza Jr., she settled mid-pack before taking control and clocking 1:42.79 for 1 1/16 miles on firm turf. Jojo Bean was second and Clearly My Star third.
Pedroza praised her consistency and stretch-running ability, highlighting the horse’s racing intelligence. Highly Wicked is out of Highly Confused (by Rahy) and paid $2.80 for the victory.
Star of Bethlehem Leads Gate-to-Wire in Juvenile
Despite heavy betting on the favorite Golfito, Dar Horse Investments and Kevin Delahoussaye’s Star of Bethlehem took center stage in the $75,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile, winning impressively by 5 3/4 lengths at 9-2 odds. After a sharp break and relaxed early fractions, jockey Harry Hernandez guided the Star Guitar colt to a strong finish over firm turf in two turns. Runningoncloudnine rallied to second, with Pantinaca third and Golfito fourth.
Hernandez noted Star of Bethlehem’s improved composure compared to previous starts, emphasizing his readiness and powerful break from the gate. The colt, bred by the Heitzmann family, now boasts two wins from four starts with $83,600 in earnings, returning an $11.80 payoff.
Cajun Caviar Stays Undefeated in Juvenile Fillies
Ellen Upstein’s Cajun Caviar, favored at even money, extended her unbeaten streak to two in the $75,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile Fillies. The No Parole filly took command approaching the quarter pole and maintained her lead to win by 2 3/4 lengths over Nola Queen and Bar Car. Ridden by Casey Fusilier, the filly impressed with her steadiness and finishing kick.
Trainer Allen Landry applauded her easy training and reliable performance. Cajun Caviar, bred with Lynne Boutte’s partnership, paid $4 and is the daughter of No Parole out of Clearly Sailing (by Custom for Carlos).
More for Us Spoils Six Strings’ Triple Bid in Filly & Mare Sprint
The opening race featured heavy favorite Six Strings aiming for a third straight win in the $75,000 Louisiana Cup Filly & Mare Sprint, but she finished third behind More for Us, who capitalized on speedy early fractions set by Six Strings and Gangster Flash. Under Harry Hernandez’s guidance, More for Us surged to a 5 1/2-length win in 1:11.34 over six furlongs on a fast track.
The Steve Asmussen-trained mare, a 5-year-old by Mo Tom out of Bovell Road, improved to 7-4-5 in 21 starts with earnings now totaling $373,475. She returned $13.40 to win.
Originally published by Paulick Report on September 20, 2026.
Fan Take:
This Louisiana Cup Day showcase highlights rising stars and consistent champions who bring excitement and heart to the sport. For horse racing fans, these performances not only promise thrilling future contests but also underscore the depth of talent and commitment shaping the next chapter of racing.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
