Opelousas, Louisiana –Probation Ready rallied to the lead in the upper stretch then held off the late bid of Heelbolt in the final 100 yards to win the $50,000 Inaugural Stakes for three-year-olds at Evangeline Downs on Saturday evening. Jockey Dominic Terry reserved the Kentucky bred son of More Than Ready off the fast early pace and that tactic proved the difference as he had plenty left in the tank in the stretch to secure the victory. He won by a 1 ≤ length’s and covered the six furlongs on a Wet/Fast track in 1:11 4/5.

Trained by Steve Asmussen, Probation Ready recorded his fourth career victory in eight starts. Rebounding from a dull effort in the Mountain Valley Stakes at Oaklawn Park, he earned $30,000 for the second stakes win of his career. As the betting favorite, he returned $4.40 for the win.

Heelbolt, who like Probation Ready, was reserved off the early pace, rallied strongly in the stretch to finish second in his first stakes engagement. Trippi Toes weakened in the late stages after taking the lead from early pacesetter Harbor Bill and checked in third, 4 π lengths behind the winner.

Harbor Bill, who led while under pressure through fractions of 21 4/5 & 45 3/5, was fourth, with Silky Dreams and Salti Colton rounding out the complete order of finish.

Purchased as a yearling for $170,000 by Vinery Stables LLC, Probation Ready has now earned more than $141,200 in his career.

For more information contact Evangeline Downs at 337-594-3000.

Racing continues on a Wednesday through Saturday schedule with a post time of 6:20 p.m. Central each evening.