VINTON, LA—JUNE 10, 2013—Firecracker Futurity(G2) winner Ronnie James will head three trials at Delta Downs Friday for the Firecracker Derby. The 10 fastest qualifiers will return to the Louisiana raceway on Saturday, July 6 and vie for the winner's share of a $75,000-added purse at 400 yards.

Coming off an impressive win on May 1st at 250 yards after a long layoff, Ronnie James is the leading money earner at $230,876. The winner of six races in eight starts was making his first appearance after he finished fifth in the $1 million Texas Classic Futurity(G1) last November at Lone Star Park as the fastest qualifier.

The Valiant Hero gelding, owned-and-bred by Brett Mennen, completed the May 1st debut in a quick :13.028 seconds, a 99 speed index. Heath Taylor will saddle from the two hole in the final trial (Race 8) with regular rider John Hamilton aboard.

Sam Houston Futurity(G2) winner and Southwest Juvenile Championship(G1) third place finisher Sassmaster will face Ronnie James from the seven hole. Eddie Cox will ride the F. Huitron trainee owned by Macedonio Lozano. Last season the Tr Dasher gelding went 3-2-2 in eight starts, but so far in 203 he has finished off-the-board in two starts.

Harrah's Entertainment Futurity(G3) runner-up Jetblack Gold Moment will make her 3-year-old debut in the second trial (Race 7) for owner/breeder Mercy Hinklin's Horse Farm, LLC. Kenneth Roberts, Sr. will saddle the four-time winner with Danny Lavergne named to ride. The Jet Black Patriot filly earned $76,181 in seven starts at 2.

Hinklin and Roberts will also start recent Old South Derby winner FDD Going Grand in the first trial (Race 6). Regular rider Jesse Chavis will be aboard the FDD Dynasty three-time winner of $115,480.

First post at Delta Downs on Friday is 6:45 p.m. (CDT). The first trial (Race 6) is scheduled to go at 8:50 p.m. All Delta Downs races can been seen on Q-RacingVideo.com.