Mucho Macho Man takes Risen Star
February 19, 2011NEW ORLEANS (AP) - Mucho Macho Man held off Santiva in the stretch to win the $300,000 Risen Star Stakes by 11/2 lengths at the Fair Grounds on Saturday.
The 3-year-old colt was ridden by Rajiv Maragh, a late replacement for Eibar Coa. Coa was injured in a spill Friday at Gulfstream Park in Florida.
Mucho Macho Man ran second outside pacesetter Decisive Moment, then made his move heading into the final turn. Santiva closed but could not pass the winner.
Rogue Romance, the 2-1 favorite in the field of 10, finished third.
Mucho Macho Man ran the 1 1/16 miles in 1:43.98, and moves forward on the road to the Kentucky Derby.
Mucho Macho Man paid $9.20, $4.80, and $2.80. Santiva paid $6 and $3.40, and Rogue Romance returned $2.60.