Gold Storm Sets 5-Furlong Mark at Evangeline

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Odds-on favorite Gold Storm outclassed his four rivals in the $75,000 Need For Speed Stakes at Evangeline Downs on Saturday evening while setting a track record for five furlongs.

Making his first start since May of 05', Gold Storm ($3.20) took command in the upper stretch and pulled clear under mild urging from jockey Tracy Hebertin the final furlong en route to a three-length victory in a track record :56 4/5.

Bubba Cascio trains the 6-year-old gelded son of Seeking The Gold. Gold Storm recorded his 10th lifetime win in 17 starts. With the $45,000 winner's share, he has now bankrolled more than $412,000 for owner Keith McKinney.

Cascio said Gold Storm suffered a suspensory injury in last year's Churchill Downs Handicap (gr. II) on Kentucky Derby Day.

"He's been in steady training since February and we thought this was a perfect jumping off point," the trainer said. Cascio said Gold Storm's next start would be in the $500,000 Smile Sprint Handicap (gr. II) on Summit of Speed Day at Calder Race Course July 15.

Inalako who was part of the contested pace of :21 3/5 and :44 3/5 valiantly tried to stay with the winner but ended up second best. All Wired Up checked in third, beaten 5 ½ lengths.

(Chart, Equibase)

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