Delta Downs: Funding Shortfall Could Mean Canceling Of Jackpot, Princess Stakes

by Paulick Report Staff | 09.12.2017 | 8:54am

A decline in casino revenue has officials at Delta Downs considering eliminating several stakes races in October and November, including the track’s marquee event, the Delta Downs Jackpot.

The Daily Racing Form reports that much of the facility’s business comes from the Houston area, which was hit by Hurricane Harvey. That has resulted in a decline in casino revenue, which helps fund purses at the track.

According to the Form, Delta’s vice president and general manager Steve Kuypers sent a letter dated Sept. 7 to Louisiana Racing Commission chairman Bob Wright requesting that the LRC approve a request to eliminate eight open stakes races worth a total of $2.3 million.

“The impact of Hurricane Harvey to the people of southeast Texas and southwest Louisiana is having a significant effect on slot revenue and subsequently the track’s purse funds,” Kuypers said in the letter.

Kuypers added, “It is important that we support the local horsemen that fill our overnight races and this action will allow us to do that.”