White Smoke

Although Cherie DeVaux sent out the first and second choices in the wagering, the trainer knew that her horses had something to prove in Saturday's GIII Lecomte Stakes at the Fair Grounds. Both Golden Tempo (Curlin) and Mesquite (Union Rags) had done nothing more than win maiden races and both seemed to be horses that still needed time to mature and develop. That may still be the case. But after Golden Tempo and Mesquite ran one-two, with Golden Tempo winning by three-quarters of a length, DeVaux knows she has two...

White Smoke (f, 2, Essential Quality--Mira Alta, by Curlin), whose barn already celebrated when first-time starter Golden Tempo (Curlin) was named a 'TDN Rising Star, presented by Hagyard', after winning the third race on the card in New Orleans, was backed by the betting public as the 8-5 choice for her unveiling here. The filly was left at the gate by the field, which put her at a distinct disadvantage up the backstretch. Seemingly out of it around the far turn, the 2-year-old was able to get back into the...