FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMarch 29, 2023The annual Thoroughbred Meet Commences on Saturday, May 6Bossier City, LA – The 2023 Thoroughbred racing season at Louisiana Downs kicks off on Saturday, May 6. The 61-day live racing season will run through Tuesday, September 12.The Bossier City racetrack will complete its annual Quarter Horse meet on Saturday, April 1 and is looking forward to preparing for opening day of the Thoroughbred live racing season on Saturday, May 6. Now under its second year of operation under Rubico Acquisition Corporation, president and owner Kevin Preston and his team continue to make improvements to both the racetrack and onsite casino.“As you know, we have made significant changes to the track and have enhanced many of the areas including adding over 100 new slot machines to the casino floor, opening up two new restaurant concepts, adding our sportsbook and freshening up all aspects of the race track,” said Preston. “This year we have added many special features of our live race broadcasts. As we move into 2023, we have a lot of additional changes happening for this upcoming racing season.”One of many goals set by Preston, was bringing back the track’s marquee race, the Super Derby. Inaugurated in 1980, the annual event attracted the top owners, trainers and jockeys in North America. Belmont Stakes winner Temperence Hill won the first edition of the Super Derby. Three Super Derby winners, Tiznow, Sunday Silence and Alysheba were voted the Eclipse Award as Horse of the Year, the industry’s highest award.Louisiana Downs brought back the Super Derby in 2017 with Mr Misunderstood winning on the turf for trainer Brad Cox. Reverted to the main track, the next year, Hall of Fame conditioner Steve Asmussen won the next two editions with Limation in 2018 and Rotation in 2019.Preston and Matt Crawford, Louisiana Downs racing operations/racing secretary, worked hard to bring the Super Derby back in 2023. It will be contested on Saturday, September 2.“We are looking forward to a great Thoroughbred season and the return of the Super Derby,” said Crawford. “Of course, Louisiana Cup Day will return with purses of $75,000 for the six stakes for Louisiana-breds. In addition, we will debut the $50,000 Alabama Stakes and the $50,000 Cotton State Stakes.”Here is the stakes schedule for the 2023 Louisiana Downs Thoroughbred racing season.Saturday, June 24$50,000 Alabama Stakes3 YO & up 6 ½ furlongs
Saturday, August 5 Louisiana Cup Day$75,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile Fillies 2 YO Fillies LA-Bred 5 ½ furlongs$75,000 Louisiana Cup Filly & Mare Sprint 3 YO & Up F&M, LA-Bred Six furlongs$75,000 Louisiana Cup Sprint 3 YO & Up LA-Bred Six furlongs$75,000 Louisiana Cup Turf Classic 3 YO & Up LA-Bred 1 1/16 miles (T)
Saturday, August 19$50,000 Cotton State Stakes 3 YO & up Six furlongs
Saturday, September 2 Super Derby$200,000 Super Derby 3 YO 1 1/8 Miles
The 61-day meet will feature live racing on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday through September 12, with a few Tuesday cards added to the schedule. Post time will be 2:05 pm (Central). For details on simulcasting and special events, visit ladowns.com.About Louisiana DownsLocated near Shreveport in Bossier City, Louisiana, Louisiana Downs opened in 1974 and is owned by Rubico Acquisition Corporation. With annual Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing seasons, the track is committed to presenting the highest quality racing programs paired with its 150,000 square foot entertainment complex offering casino gambling, dining and plasma screen televisions for sports and simulcast racing.
Category: Louisiana Cup Day
FILL YOUR LOUISIANA CUP
By Chad Cooper
If you revitalize it, they will come. The once storied Louisiana Downs in Bossier City has begun to return to its glory days thanks to new co-owner and president Kevin Preston, who took over last November. The changes made in a short period of time were made prevalent with full fields during Louisiana Cup Day on Aug. 6 as six stakes races totaling more than $400,000 in purse money saw plenty of exciting action as some new and some familiar faces returned to the winner’s circle to claim a coveted cup.
LOUISIANA DOWNS 2023 DATES APPROVED
LOUISIANA DOWNS 2023 DATES APPROVED FOR THE LIVE QUARTER HORSE AND THOROUGHBRED RACING SEASON
The 46-Day Quarter Horse Meet Will Begin on January 5
Bossier City, LA – The 2023 Quarter Horse racing season at Louisiana Downs will commence on Thursday, January 5 and continue through Saturday, April 1. The dates for both the 46-day Quarter Horse meet and 2023 Thoroughbred live racing season were approved by the Louisiana State Racing Commission (LSRC) on August 23.
Opening day for the 84-day Thoroughbred meet will be Saturday, May 6 and will conclude on Tuesday, September 26. Live racing will take place Saturday through Tuesday.
Louisiana Downs will wrap its 2022 Thoroughbred meet on Tuesday, September 27. The final condition book is available on Equibase.
“We appreciate our horsemen for their support throughout 2022 and look forward to building on momentum for both our Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred seasons next year,” said Matt Crawford, Louisiana Downs Racing Secretary.
Wiener Dog Races Set for Monday, September 5
Louisiana Downs will celebrate Labor Day with live racing, family-friendly activities on the track apron and Wiener Dog Racing. Fans of all ages are invited to enjoy Bounce Houses, live music by our house DJ, tasty treats from area Food Trucks, and even participate in a blood drive, all beginning at 11:00 am. The Wieiner Dog competition gets underway at Noon with several preliminary heats leading up to the final. Proceeds from the races will benefit the Humane Society of Northwest Louisiana. Simulcasting from racetracks across the country including Saratoga and Delmar will be offered and seven live Louisiana Downs Thoroughbred races will begin at 3:05 pm (Central). For more information, visit ladowns.com.
Louisiana Cup Day Winners Continue to Shine
Several outstanding Thoroughbreds who won stakes here on Louisiana Cup Day, were successful last weekend at Evangeline Downs. Anna Guillot’s Bisping, who was victorious in the $67,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile, returned to the winner’s circle the $60,000 D.S. “Shine” Young Futurity on Saturday, August 27.
The 5 ½-furlong race for Louisiana-bred 2-year-old colts and geldings highlighted the card that also recognized the top horsemen of the season.
Trained by Ricky Courville and ridden by Devin Magnon, the son of El Deal, bred in Louisiana by Red River Farm LLC and J. Adcock, won his third race in four starts. He covered five and one-half furlongs in 1:05.54 over a fast track.
“He’s a lot more advanced than the average 2-year-old,” stated Magnon. “At Louisiana Downs, he broke from the two-hole, and we had a good idea of what to expect. In the Shine, he drew right in the middle, but broke super and got clear. He’s pretty automatic and very game!”
Magnon said that Bisping will ship to Delta Downs and is likely to make a start there prior to running on Louisiana Champions Day December 10 at Fair Grounds.
On Friday, August 26, Janet is Ready overcame a troubled trip to finish second in the fillies division of the $60,000 D.S. “Shine” Young Futurity.
Free Like a Girl who was a convincing winner in the $67,000 Louisiana Filly and Mare Sprint here on August 6, ran a game second in the $500,440 Charles Town Oaks (G2) on August 26.
Bred by retired jockey Kim Renee Stover and her sister, Lisa Osborne, the daughter of Flashy Prize, sired by El Deal, had won seven of her 14 starts for owners Gerald Bruno, Jr; Carl J, Deville; Chasey Deville Pomier and Jerry Caroom. She was honored as 2021 Louisiana Thoroughbred Breeders Association (LTBA) Champion 2-year-old filly and continues to progress through her 3-year-old campaign.
Regular rider Pedro Cotto, Jr. guided the bay filly to her runner-up finish at Charles Town, which was her third graded stakes career placing. It marked the 16th career start for Free Like a Girl, who has a record of 8 wins, four seconds, three thirds and earnings of $562,128.
Jes An Angel Leads Qualifiers to the $3-Million All American Futurity (G1)
Lance Moore’s Jes an Angel will compete in the prestigious All American Futurity (G1) at Ruidoso Downs on Labor Day. The filly by Jess Zoomin, bred in Texas by Jerry Windham, broke her maiden at Louisiana Downs in trials for the $324,288 Louisiana Downs Futurity (G2). She finished ninth in the final, but was victorious the Old South Futurity at Delta Downs on May 21 before shipping to New Mexico. Her 440-yard trial win in :21.257 seconds on August 19 was the fastest clocking in the 32 heats contested over two days.
The durable filly drew post position eight for Monday’s final and will be ridden by Bryan Candanosa, who is one of the top young Quarter Horse riders in the country.
Very exciting that she made her debut at Louisiana Downs!
Annual Charity Golf Tournament Moved to Thursday, September 15
Louisiana Downs will host its annual Charity Golf Tournament at Northwood Hills Golf Club in Shreveport, Louisiana on Thursday, September 15. The event supports the Winner’s Circle Church and Chaplain Jimmy Sistrunk to assist the Louisiana Downs racing community and backstretch workers.
Sign in for the event’s Four Person Scramble kicks off at 10:00 a.m. with tee off at 10:30 a.m. The fee is $80 per person or $320 for a four-person team. The fee includes green fees, golf cart, lunch, and t-shirt/cap. Trophies will be presented to the first, second and third-place teams.
The deadline to enter is Wednesday, September 8. Attendees can register in person in the Louisiana Downs Racing office, or by mail. Checks should be payable to The Winner’s Circle Church and mailed to: Jennifer Sokol, Louisiana Downs, 8000 East Texas Street, Bossier City, Louisiana, 71111. For further information, please contact Jennifer Sokol at (318) 741-2512 or (318) 573-5830.
Trainer and Jockey Standings Through August 30
Last year’s leading conditioner Shane Wilson remains the leader in the trainer standings with 41wins since the meet began on May 7. Joey Foster follows in second place with 30 winners and Greg Tracy is third with 27 wins. Karl Broberg rounds out the top four with 24 victories.
Carlos Lozada, who was honored as leading jockey here in 2021 continues to have a very successful meet and leads his fellow riders with 73trips to the winner’s circle. Jose Guerrero is second with 67 wins followed by Joel Dominguez has ridden 37 winners. Alexander Castillofollows with 36 victories and Vicente Del Cid, who won the 2022 Evangeline Downs leading rider title, is next with 35 winners.
About Louisiana Downs
Located near Shreveport in Bossier City, Louisiana, Louisiana Downs opened in 1974 and is now owned by Rubico Acquisition Corporation. With annual Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing seasons, the track is committed to presenting the highest quality racing programs paired with its 150,000 square foot entertainment complex offering casino gambling, dining and plasma screen televisions for sports and simulcast racing.
FIRST STAKES VICTORY FOR TRAINER JOSEPH “BOBBY” FELKS STILL FEELS SPECIAL
Former Assistant to Louisiana Trainer Edward J. Johnston Enjoying Success On His Own
Bossier City, LA – There were plenty of wonderful moments on Louisiana Cup Day, the annual stakes card saluting Louisiana Thoroughbreds.
One special highlight was the victory of Cheapskate Diva who took command in the $67,000 Louisiana Cup Distaff. The 4-year-old daughter of Animal Kingdom was making her stakes debut for breeder/owner Keith Plaisance. Ridden confidently by Carlos Marquez, the bay filly crossed the wire of the mile and one-sixteenth turf stakes in 1.41.92, defeating a deep field of accomplished turf mares.
It was the first stakes win for the filly and her trainer Joseph “Bobby” Felks, and while he was reticent about taking credit for her victory, Marquez and Plaisance gave him his due.
“I give all the credit to Bobby,” said Marquez. “She used to be more hyper, but Bobby has worked with her, and she did it easy for me today.”
Plaisance also praised Felks in the post-race interview.
“It was his idea to enter her in this,” said Plaisance. “Bobby felt she deserved a shot and to win over tough mares like Net a Bear and Fort Polk was amazing. My hat’s off to Bobby!”
“Bobby is my middle name,” explained Felks. “I never really liked being called Joseph; everyone calls me Bobby.”
Felks was born in Chicago and is the only member of his family who desired a career in the racing industry. He had a summer job hotwalking horses at Arlington Park and made his way to Louisiana when he served as an assistant for the late Edward J. Johnston. The respected horseman succumbed to cancer on August 28, 2021 at the age of 74. Eddie’s career spanned 30 years with stakes winners including Pacific Pink, Zarb’s Luck, Grand Basin and Is Too earning over $12 million.
Felks has eight horses in training and admits that he had his challenges with Cheapskate Diva. She made six starts at Fair Grounds with little impact.
“She was difficult in the beginning,” he explained. “I didn’t know what to do to get her focused. The lightbulb finally turned on at Evangeline Downs, where she began to relax and showed more and more in each work. Winning the maiden $20,000 (on May 14) was a confidence builder, for sure.”
Marquez rode for Johnston and Felks named him on the filly and several other runners.
“It has worked out very well with Carlos,” said Felks. “He has won eight of nine races for me this summer.”
Felks reports that Cheapskate Diva, who reeled off four consecutive wins since May, will have some time off and likely make her next start at Fair Grounds. Her performance on Louisiana Cup Day was very special for the 53-year-old horseman and he remains grateful to Plaisance for his support.
“Training for Keith has been amazing,” stated Felks. “There is no pressure in developing his horses. I couldn’t ask for a better owner!”
Matt Crawford, in his first month as Louisiana Downs racing secretary, also applauds the hard work of Felks.
“Bobby is a very dedicated horseman,” stated Crawford. “Whether you have eight or 80, training racehorses is a very demanding job. It’s great to see Bobby win his first stakes race and we are happy that it took place on Louisiana Cup Day!”
Trainer and Jockey Standings Through August 16
Last year’s leading conditioner Shane Wilson remains the leader in the trainer standings with 39 wins since the meet began on May 7. Joey Foster follows in second place with 27 winners and Greg Tracy is now third with 25 wins. Karl Broberg rounds out the top four with 23 victories.
Carlos Lozada, who was honored as leading jockey here in 2021 continues to have an excellent meet and leads his fellow riders with 70 trips to the winner’s circle. Jose Guerrero is second with 61 wins followed by Joel Dominguez, Alexander Castillo and Vicente Del Cid who each have 32 winners each.
Annual Charity Golf Tournament Moved to Thursday, September 15
Louisiana Downs will host its annual Charity Golf Tournament at Northwood Hills Golf Club in Shreveport, Louisiana on Thursday September 15. The event will benefit The Winner’s Circle Church and Chaplain Jimmy Sistrunk for his many programs to assist the Louisiana Downs racing community and backstretch workers.
Sign in for the event’s Four Person Scramble kicks off at 10:00 a.m. with tee off at 10:30 a.m. The fee is $80 per person or $320 for a four-person team. The fee includes green fees, golf cart, lunch, and t-shirt/cap. Trophies will be presented to the first, second and third-place teams.
The deadline to enter is Wednesday, August 24. Attendees can register in person in the Louisiana Downs Racing office, or by mail. Checks should be payable to The Backside Benevolence Fund and mailed to: Jennifer Sokol, Harrah’s Louisiana Downs, 8000 East Texas Street, Bossier City, Louisiana, 71111. For further information, please contact Jennifer Sokol at (318) 741-2512 or (318) 573-5830.
Wiener Dog Races Set for Monday, September 5
Louisiana Downs will celebrate Labor Day with live racing, family-friendly activities on the track apron and Wiener Dog competition in between Thoroughbred races. Registration is open for purebred Dachshunds with 32 entrants to be selected. For more information, visit ladowns.com.
Louisiana Downs Racing Dates and Post Time
The 2022 Thoroughbred meet at Louisiana Downs got underway on Saturday, May 7. The 84-day live racing season runs Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday at 3:05 pm (Central) through September 27.
About Louisiana Downs
Located near Shreveport in Bossier City, Louisiana, Louisiana Downs opened in 1974 and is now owned by Rubico Acquisition Corporation. With annual Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing seasons, the track is committed to presenting the highest quality racing programs paired with its 150,000 square foot entertainment complex offering casino gambling, dining and plasma screen televisions for sports and simulcast racing.
THRILLING FINISHES FOR EACH OF THE LOUISIANA CUP DAY STAKES AT LOUISIANA DOWNS
Trainer Chasey Deville Pomier Wins Two of the Six Features
Bossier City, LA – It was another outstanding edition of Louisiana Cup Day on Saturday, August 6 at Louisiana Downs. The quality of the Louisiana Thoroughbred breeding industry shone brightly in each of the six stakes on the program.
Despite temperatures in the high 90’s, tremendous performances were noted throughout the afternoon with glory to several experienced runners as well as the younger horses testing stakes level competition! Here is a recap of the six Louisiana Cup stakes.
Bisping Triumphs in the $67,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile
Stakes action got underway in the second race with the running of the $67,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile for Louisiana-bred 2-year-old colts and geldings. A field of eight competed at five and one-half furlongs on the main track.
The winner was Anna Guillot’s Bisping, a son of El Deal, bred by Adcock’s Red River Farm LLC & J. Adcock. He reunited with jockey Devin Magnon this afternoon, who guided him from his inside post, taking command at the 3/8thpole and drawing clear. He prevailed by a margin of 3 ¾ lengths over Ranch Water in a final time of 1.05.90.
“Before he ever ran, I knew he was special,” said Magnon. “We have a bond, and he does everything you ask of him very professionally.”
Trained by Ricky Courville, the dark bay gelding broke his maiden on May 19 at Evangeline Downs prior to running sixth in the $150,000 Tremont Stakes at Belmont Park.
“I had a race in him and took a shot,” said Courville. “We faced big horses in New York.”
World War IV Racing’s Ranch Water ran second for trainer Allen Landry followed by Norman Racing Stables LLC’s Easy Chance. Post time favorite King’s Lute completed the superfecta for owner Claiming Cajuns LLC.
Sent off as the second choice in the wagering, Bisping paid $9.60 for the win, which was his second in three starts. With today’s winner’s share of $40,200, his earnings stand at $58,050. Courville said that Bisping will be pointed to the D.S. “Shine” Young Futurity at Evangeline Downs.
Cheapskate Diva Thrills Her Connections in the $67,000 Louisiana Cup Distaff
The first turf stakes of the card, the $67,000 Louisiana Cup Distaff, drew nine fillies and mares who traveled a mile and one-sixteenth over the firm Franks Turf Course.
Cheapskate Diva was in fine form as she made her stakes debut for breeder/owner Keith Plaisance The 4-year-old filly by Animal Kingdom last ran here on July 3, drawing off in a $25,000 turf allowance by 10 lengths under Carlos Marquez. Confidently handled today, she was forwardly placed through early fractions of :23.77 and 48.39 before taking the lead at the top of the stretch and drawing clear by 1 ½ lengths. The final time, over the firm turf course was 1.41.92.
This was the first stakes win for the filly and her trainer Joseph “Bobby” Felks.
“I give all the credit to Bobby,” said Marquez. “She used to be more hyper, but Bobby has worked with her, and she did it easy for me today.”
Plaisance also praised Felks in the post-race interview.
“It was his idea to enter her in this,” said Plaisance. “Bobby felt she deserved a shot and to win over tough mares like Net a Bear and Fort Polk was amazing. My hat’s off to Bobby!”
Fort Polk, a 6-year-old daughter of Behindatthebar, trained by Pat Mouton for owners Steve and Pat Roe completed the exacta. She won her last two turf races at Louisiana Downs, with a total of nine victories in 35 starts. Juan Vargas had the call. Alliaceous closed for third under rider Vicente Del-Cid and longshot Eve’s Delight rounded out the top four.
Defending champion Net a Bear finished seventh and trainer Allen Landry felt the heat might have taken its toll on his multiple-stakes winner.
“She was sweating when we hauled in this morning,” said Landry. “We will give her some time off and see how she does.”
Cheapskate Diva has now won four of her ten efforts with earnings of $101,740. Her connections were undecided on her next start.
Free Like a Girl Sensational in the $67,000 Louisiana Cup Filly and Mare Sprint
The $67,000 Louisiana Filly and Mare Sprint showcased a field of 11 exceptional Louisiana-bred fillies and mares going six furlongs on the fast main track.
Free Like a Girl returned to Louisiana Downs on Cup Day as the 3-1 morning-line favorite in the six-furlong sprint.Bred by retired jockey Kim Renee Stover and her sister, Lisa Osborne, the daughter of Flashy Prize, sired by El Deal, had won seven of her 14 starts for owners Gerald Bruno, Jr; Carl J, Deville; Chasey Deville Pomier and Jerry Caroom. She was honored as 2021 Louisiana Thoroughbred Breeders Association (LTBA) Champion 2-year-old filly and continues to progress through her 3-year-old campaign.
She was back in state bred company today following starts in the Grade 3, $300,000 Honeybee at Oaklawn Park February 26 against the much heralded Secret Oath and her most recent race, a credible third in the $225,000 Iowa Oaks (G3) on July 9 at Prairie Meadows.
Quite simply, today she was exceptional! Jockey Pedro Cotto, Jr. was content to let her break from her far inside post, track the front-running Drop Dead Sexy, and confidently circle the field. She drew clear at the eighth pole and crossed the wire by a margin of 6 ½ lengths in 1.10.69.
“She likes being on the outside and having something to run at,” explained Pomier. “We were facing older horses and were not sure how it would pan out, but she’s shown time and time again how much she loves her job!”
The connections remain loyal to Cotto, who has piloted Free Like a Girl in each of her Louisiana races.
“He rode for my dad when I was a kid and worked this filly as a baby,” Pomier added. “Pedro fits her and tells us that all he ever wants is to ride our filly!”
Drop Dead Sexy held on for second for current leading trainer Shane Wilson and
2021 Louisiana Cup Filly and Mare Sprint champion, Snowball completed the trifecta, followed by Spirited Beauty and Canada’s Customs.
Free Like a Girl ($4.20) has now won eight of her fifteen career starts, boosting her earnings to $464,073.
City Park Springs the Upset in the $67,000 Louisiana Cup Turf Classic
The $67,000 Louisiana Turf Cup Classic attracted eleven runners going a mile and one-sixteenth over the Franks Turf Course.
City Park, a 5-year-old son of Temple City, bred by Warren Harang, returned to the winner’s circle for the first time in 2022, under very confident handling by rider Joel Dominguez. Breaking from the rail, he was eighth after the half-mile, before advancing four-wide and drawing clear in 1:40.79 over the firm turf course.
Owned by MAT Investments, LLC, City Park exited a seventh-place finish in the John Henry at Evangeline Downs last month.
“You can always make it happen when you are on the right horse and I had the right horse today,” said Dominguez. “The race set up well. I knew if they went fast up front, he would come running and that’s what happened.”
Charlie G rallied for second under rider Joe Stokes, followed by Big Chopper and Jaci’s Royalty. Defending champion Carlea’s Dream, sent off as the favorite, ran fifth under Iram Diego.
City Park was bet down from his 12-1 morning line and rewarded his backers with a $12.80 win payout. Trained by Eduardo Ramirez, this was the first stakes victory for the bay gelding who has won six of his career efforts, increasing his earning to $210,484 this afternoon.
Janet is Ready Lived up to her Name in the $67,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile Fillies
Nine accredited 2-year-old Louisiana-bred fillies competed in one of the best fields ever for the $67,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile Fillies. Several first-time winners faced off in the five and one-half main track sprint.
Saddling her second winner on the Cup Day card was Chasey Deville Pomier as Janet is Ready notched the win in gate-to-wire fashion under rider Vicente Del-Cid. This was the third victory for the daughter of Custom for Carlos, who made her debut on May 13 in a $98,000 maiden special weight at Churchill Downs. After running second in Kentucky, she broke her maiden at Evangeline Downs and won the $100,000 Prairie Gold Lassie on July 8 in Iowa, at odds of 21-1.
She drifted out as she approached the wire today, but still prevailed by one-length in 1:05.65, over Guitar Woman, Lady Flurry, the heavy post time favorite and Nodah.
Owner Gerry Bruno was on hand for the race and talked about the team behind the filly, who was bred by Bentley T. Early.
“We bought her at the LTBA Yearling Sale ($5,500),” said Bruno. “She was impressive today, despite drifting at the end! No one knows that I was Carl Deville’s assistant at Monmouth Park when Chasey was seven, so we’ve been around for a long time ”
Flurry Racing Stable LLC’s homebred Lady Flurry turned heads at Louisiana Downs with a riveting nine-length maiden score on June 20. Owner Staton Flurry, who won the 201- Super Derby (on turf) with Mr Misunderstood, bred the daughter of Lord Nelson out of the Storm and a Half mare Patchofbadweather.
Janet Is Ready ($13.20) has now won $121,100 and may be pointed to the D.S. “Shine” Young Futurity Filly Division at Evangeline Downs.
Front-Running Score by Takes Two to Tango in the $67,000 Louisiana Cup Sprint
The $67,000 Louisiana Turf Cup Sprint closed out the Louisiana Cup Day card with eleven talented Louisiana-breds traveling six furlongs on the main track.
Takes Two to Tango, a 6-year-old son of Half Ours, added his sixth career victory for breeder/owner Melissa Cantacuzene. Jockey Luis Quinonez guided the bay gelding to the wire in 1:10.89 in front-running fashion over the fast track. He spoke about his improvement following his third-place finish in the Louisiana Legends Sprint at Evangeline Downs.
“He broke very well today,” said Quinonez. “Was very alert and when I called on him, he finished well. I thank the owner for this opportunity.”
Trained by J. Luis Garcia, Takes Two to Tango, has won five of his seven outs at Louisiana Downs.
“He never holds back,” said Cantacuzene. “He always gives 100%.”
Black Sword ran second under Vicente Del-Cid, followed by Brian’s Iron Mike and Creole Charlie.
Takes Two to Tango broke his maiden at first asking here on May 6, 2019 and has increased his career bankroll to $164,190 in 16 starts.
Equibase Chart: https://www.equibase.com/static/chart/pdf/LAD080622USA.pdf
Photos courtesy Hodges Photography
Louisiana Downs Thoroughbred Meet Continues Through September 27
Live racing at Louisiana Downs continues Sunday, August 7 with Thoroughbred action each Saturday, Sunday, Mondayand Tuesday through September 27. For further information on upcoming events, visit ladowns.com.
About Louisiana Downs
Located near Shreveport in Bossier City, Louisiana, Louisiana Downs opened in 1974 and is now owned by Rubico Acquisition Corporation. With annual Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing seasons, the track is committed to presenting the highest quality racing programs paired with its 150,000 square foot entertainment complex offering casino gambling, dining and plasma screen televisions for sports and simulcast racing.
LOUISIANA DOWNS TO WELCOME LEGISLATORS FOR LOUISIANA CUP DAY ON SATURDAY, AUGUST 6
State Officials to Make Trophy Presentation After Race 3
Bossier City, LA – Kevin Preston, the president and owner of Louisiana Downs looks forward to welcoming Louisiana horsemen, fans and key lawmakers this Saturday, August 6 for Louisiana Cup Day, the marquee racing event of the annual Thoroughbred racing season.
Since the 2022 Louisiana live racing season kicked off in January, Preston has worked tirelessly to bring the Bossier City racetrack and casino back to prominence. Facility updates and the addition of a Sports Wagering Hub have been well-received by fans and horsemen. One of his other goals is to ensure that Louisiana lawmakers understand the economic impact of Louisiana Downs. Preston has extended an invitation to local and state legislators to come out on Saturday, August 6 for the stakes-filled program saluting Louisiana Thoroughbreds. The card includes:
$67,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile 2 YO LA-Bred 5 ½ furlongs
$67,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile Fillies 2 YO Fillies LA-Bred 5 ½ furlongs
$67,000 Louisiana Cup Filly & Mare Sprint 3 YO & Up F&M, LA-Bred Six furlongs
$67,000 Louisiana Cup Sprint 3 YO & Up LA-Bred Six furlongs
$67,000 Louisiana Cup Turf Classic 3 YO & Up LA-Bred 1 1/16 miles (T)
$67,000 Louisiana Cup Distaff 3 YO & Up F & M LA-Bred 1 1/16 miles (T)
“Working with our legislators is vital to the growth of Louisiana racing and breeding,” stated Preston. “Louisiana Downs is one of four racetracks in Louisiana that support the livelihoods of many individuals in our state. We look forward to a very entertaining Cup Day on Saturday!”
Scholarship Drawings Set for Louisiana Cup Day
The Louisiana Thoroughbred Breeders Association (LTBA) will award two (2) scholarships, each valued at $1,000, during the event.
The drawings will take place after the fifth race. The races begin at 1:45 p.m. and the student must be there to register between 12:45 p.m. and 1:45 p.m. at the designated registration booth. The requirements for the scholarship are as follows:
Must be a college student enrolled full-time for Fall 2022.
Must be in good standing with the college or university.
Must be present at the drawing location to win.
Must have university ID number or Social Security number.
The scholarship will be deposited directly into the student’s account at the college or university. The student is asked to know the name and address of the college that they are attending.
Louisiana Cup Day Festivities
Racing fans of all ages are invited to enjoy the festivities offered on August 6 at Louisiana Downs.
Family-friendly activities on the trackside apron include live music, inflatable bounce houses and water slides, face painting, and much more! Also, enjoy tasty bites from the city’s best food trucks. And don’t forget to claim your FREE $5 wager while you are there!
About Louisiana Downs
Located near Shreveport in Bossier City, Louisiana, Louisiana Downs opened in 1974 and is now owned by Rubico Acquisition Corporation. With annual Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing seasons, the track is committed to presenting the highest quality racing programs paired with its 150,000 square foot entertainment complex offering casino gambling, dining and plasma screen televisions for sports and simulcast racing.
August Calendar of Events from the LTBA
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Two Scholarships to be Awarded at Louisiana Cup Day
- Must be a college student enrolled full-time in an Accredited College, University or Community College for Fall 2022
- Scholarships will be awarded by random draw.
- Must be in good standing with the college or university.
- Must be present to win at the Winner’s Circle when the announcement is made.
- Must have college ID and government-issued ID.
- Must have University ID number or Social Security number.
For Louisiana Cup Day:
- Registration: 12:45 p,m. – 1:45 p.m. at the designated booth
- Races begin: 1:45 p.m.
- Drawing Time: The scholarships will be awarded after the fifth race. The scholarship will be deposited directly into the student’s account at the college or university. The student is asked to know the name and address of the college that they are attending.
“The Louisiana Thoroughbred Breeders Association is paying it forward as it continues to make an investment in the future of our state by investing in our students and the education process,” said Roger Heitzmann, secretary/treasurer for the Louisiana Thoroughbred Breeders Association. “This type of investment is for our future, the state, as well as the organization. These scholarships encourage the younger generation to be engaged with LTBA so that our organization stays as one of the top breeding incentive program in the United States.”Louisiana Thoroughbred Breeders Association manages the best incentive program for breeding thoroughbreds in the United States. Since the organization formed, this has led to increased purses, better quality horses, and increased interest in racing and breeding horses. The thoroughbred racing and breeding industry generates over $1 billion and employs over 60,000 people in the state of Louisiana.For more information about Louisiana Thoroughbred Breeders Association visit louisianabred.com or call (504) 947-4676.###
THE DRAW FOR LOUISIANA CUP DAY WILL TAKE PLACE ON SATURDAY, JULY 30
Solid Nominations for the Six Stakes for Louisiana Thoroughbreds
Bossier City, LA – The momentum is building for Louisiana Cup Day on Saturday, August 6 at Louisiana Downs with post time set for 1:45 pm (Central). Plenty of activities are planned for the day that salutes Louisiana Thoroughbreds. Seven races will be contested including six stakes, all with purses of $67,000. The draw for the six features on Louisiana Cup Day will take place on Saturday, July 30. The stakes are as follows:
$67,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile 2 YO LA-Bred 5 ½ furlongs
$67,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile Fillies 2 YO Fillies LA-Bred 5 ½ furlongs
$67,000 Louisiana Cup Filly & Mare Sprint 3 YO & Up F&M, LA-Bred Six furlongs
$67,000 Louisiana Cup Sprint 3 YO & Up LA-Bred Six furlongs
$67,000 Louisiana Cup Turf Classic 3 YO & Up LA-Bred 1 1/16 miles (T)
$67,000 Louisiana Cup Distaff 3 YO & Up F & M LA-Bred 1 1/16 miles (T)
Trainer Allen Landry Pointing Five Including Net a Bear to Cup Day
Each of the Louisiana racetracks host a stakes day saluting Louisiana Thoroughbreds. Last Saturday, was Louisiana Legends Night at Evangeline Downs. One very familiar Louisiana-bred mare, Net a Bear did not disappoint as the favorite in the $75,000 Turf Distaff. With Tim Thornton aboard, the 6-year-old daughter of Awesome Bet made her usual late run and drew off tin the one-mile turf stakes, winning by 1 ¼ lengths.
Bred by Lora Pitre and Elaine Carroll, Net a Bear is owned by Maximo Lamarche and Federico Deltoro and trained by Allen Landry.Since she began her career in 2018, the bay mare, versatile on turf or dirt, has won 12 of her 33 lifetime starts and following the victory at Evangeline Downs, upped her earnings to $615,970. Her first stakes win came at Louisiana Downs when she captured the 2019 Elge Rasberry and she was a convincing winning last year in the Louisiana Cup Distaff. Remarkably, Net a Bear has been a stakes winner at each of the four Louisiana racetracks and will defend her title in the Louisiana Cup Day Distaff.
“She’s tough as hell,” said Landry. “Even when she gets in trouble, she gets clear and gives it her all. She just has an incredible turn of foot!”
He likes his chances with Vodka Gimlet for owner Ellen Epstein in the Louisiana Cup Turf Classic and feels that World War IV Racing’s Ranch Water is poised for a good effort in the Louisiana Cup Juvenile.
“He won his first time out, despite breaking in the air and getting shuffled back” explained Landry. “When he circled the field and came running, we thought he had something special.”
Landry has been prominent on Louisiana Cup, with victories by Chu Chu’s Legacy in the $50,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile and Rodney Verret’s Laughingsaintssong who won the Louisiana Cup Day Sprint in 2019 and 2020.
“We just ran him for a tag on July 25,” said Landry. “He’s getting older, but ran a game third.”
But no chance of Landry dropping Net a Bear anytime in her racing career.
“We plan on running her through the end of the year and then she will be pointed to her second career as a broodmare,” he stated.
Free Like a Girl to Return in the Louisiana Cup Filly & Mare Sprint
2021 Louisiana Thoroughbred Breeders Association (LTBA) Champion 2-year-old filly Free Like a Girl will return to Louisiana Downs on Cup Day to run in the six-furlong Louisiana Cup Filly & Mare Sprint.
Her unique story began when she was in foal to a mare named Flashy Prize. Retired jockey Kim Renee Stover and her sister, Lisa Osborne were able to purchase the mare for just $500. She foaled at Stover’s farm in Starks, Louisiana on February 24, 2019.
Free Like a Girl was sent to Carl Deville and his daughter, Chasey Deville Pomier and began her racing career for owner Gerald Bruno, Jr., running second in open company at Lone Star Park.
On July 9 at Evangeline Downs, Free Like a Girl notched her first win. Pedro Cotto, Jr. had the call and has remained her rider to date. Despite a poor break in the $50,000 Louisiana Juvenile Fillies on August 21 at Louisiana Downs, in which she spotted her rivals by ten lengths, she rallied for third. Free Like a Girl sparkled in the $60,000 D.S. Shine Young Futurity on September 21 at Evangeline Downs and won back-to back stakes at Delta Downs. She dominated nine rivals in the $100,000 Louisiana Jewel on October 22 and scored another impressive victory one month later in the $100,000 My Trusty Cat Stakes.
Her final two starts of 2021 came at Fair Grounds where she ran second in the $100,000 Louisiana Lassie on Champions Day. But she left no doubt as to who was best 2-year-old filly the $109,600 Louisiana Futurity. The bay filly quickly took command, extending her lead andcrossing the wire of the six furlong feature by 6 ¼ lengths in a final time of 1:11.11.
Free Like a Girl began her 3-year-old campaign on February 5 with a gate-to-wire romp on Louisiana Premier Day at Delta Downs, winning the $100,000 Starlet by four lengths. Her connections sent her to Oaklawn Park where she ran fourth in the Grade 3, $300,000 Honeybee on February 26 to the much heralded Secret Oath.
“There were people who disagreed with her running outside of Louisiana, but she deserved a chance,” said Stover. “We were not embarrassed.”
After winning the $75,000 Louisiana Legends Soiree at Evangeline Downs, Free Like a Girl ran a credible third in the $225,000 Iowa Oaks (G3) on July 9 at Prairie Meadows.
Free Like a Girl has won seven of her 14 starts and has already banked $423,873 for owners Gerald Bruno, Jr; Carl J, Deville; Chasey Deville Pomier and Jerry Caroom.
“She came out of the race well and we are looking forward to running her at Louisiana Downs,” said Stover.
Louisiana Cup Day Festivities
Racing fans of all ages are invited to enjoy the festivities offered on August 6 at Louisiana Downs.
Family-friendly activities on the trackside apron include live music, inflatable bounce houses and water slides, face painting, and much more! Also, enjoy tasty bites from the city’s best food trucks. And don’t forget to claim your FREE $5 wager while you are there!
Handicapping Preview Show Begins at Noon on Cup Day
Louisiana Downs track announcer John McGary and regional racing publicist Martha Claussen will team up for a pre-race handicapping preview at 12:00 pm in the Inside Rail, located on the first floor of the grandstand. They will offer analysis and their selections for each of the races on the Louisiana Cup Day card. The seminar is free and open to all racing fans.
Scholarship Drawings Set for Louisiana Cup Day
The Louisiana Thoroughbred Breeders Association (LTBA) will award two (2) scholarships, each valued at $1,000, during the event.
The drawings will take place after the fifth race. The races begin at 1:45 p.m. and the student must be there to register between 12:45 p.m. and 1:45 p.m. at the designated registration booth. The requirements for the scholarship are as follows:
Must be a college student enrolled full-time for Fall 2022.
Must be in good standing with the college or university.
Must be present at the drawing location to win.
Must have university ID number or Social Security number.
The scholarship will be deposited directly into the student’s account at the college or university. The student is asked to know the name and address of the college that they are attending.
Trainer, Jockey and Owner Leaderboard
As of July 27, Shane Wilson, who was honored as 2021 Louisiana Down leading trainer, continues to top his fellow conditioners with 35wins and an impressive 64% in the money stat. Joey Foster and Greg Tracy have both saddled 20 winners with Hall of Fame conditioner Steve Asmussen in fourth place with 15 wins.
Last year’s leading jockey Carlos Lozada moved into a tie for first place in the jockey standings with Jose Guerrero. Both riders have won 55 wins since the meet began on May 7. Joel Dominguez and Alexander Castillo are tied for third with 21 wins each. Vincente Del-Cid follows with 19 wins.
Emanuel Nieves was injured two weeks ago and underwent successful surgery on July 25 to repair his broken right arm. He was in third place with 29 victories prior to the spill. We wish him a speedy recovery!
Wayne T. Davis is the leading owner with 13 wins to date. Greg Tracy is second with 10 top finishes and End Zone Athletics, Inc. Asmussen and Elite Thoroughbred Racing LLC are tied for third with six wins each.
The 2022 Thoroughbred meet at Louisiana Downs began on May 7 with live racing each Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. The 84-day live racing season will conclude on September 27.
About Louisiana Downs
Located near Shreveport in Bossier City, Louisiana, Louisiana Downs opened in 1974 and is now owned by Rubico Acquisition Corporation. With annual Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing seasons, the track is committed to presenting the highest quality racing programs paired with its 150,000 square foot entertainment complex offering casino gambling, dining and plasma screen televisions for sports and simulcast racing.
LOUISIANA CUP DAY SET FOR SATURDAY, AUGUST 6 WITH PURSES OF $67,000 FOR EACH OF THE SIX STAKES
Nominations Will Close Saturday, July 23
Bossier City, LA – The highly anticipated Louisiana Cup Day will take place on Saturday, August 6 at Louisiana Downs. Nominations will close for the six stakes for Louisiana-breds on Saturday, July 23 with strong interest from horsemen for the features, each valued at $67,000.
The annual stakes day is always special for breeders, owners, trainers and jockeys as the entire card shines the spotlight on Louisiana-breds. The options are plentiful with stakes written for juveniles, sprints and turf routes.
Trainer Ron Faucheux plans on sending several runners to Bossier City for Cup Day.
Fame Feather and Strong Beauty are in consideration for the Filly and Mare Sprint. Fame Feather, a 7-year-old mare, sired by Lion Tamer, sprang the upset in the $75,000 Louisiana Legends Mademoiselle on June 4 at Evangeline Downs for Picard Thoroughbreds Racing Stable LLC. Strong Beauty, a 5-year-old daughter of Overanalyze, owned by Golden Rock Thoroughbreds, ran fourth in that feature.
Bertie’s Galaxy has run in two editions of the Louisiana Cup Day sprint and exits a victory in the
$75,000 Louisiana Legends Sprint on June 4 at Evangeline Downs. After conferring with owner Allen Cassedy, Faucheux is planning on giving the 6-year-old son of Greeley’s Galaxy a few months off.
However, he is considering testing Dorgenois, who just broke her maiden on July 15 at Evangeline Downs. Jim and Natalie Montgomery, prominent in Louisiana Quarter Horse racing, bred the daughter of Gormley to the Fusaichi Pegasus mare Money Peg.
“We love coming to Louisiana Downs for the big day,” said Faucheux.
Faucheux has many memories of his Louisiana-breds winning their Cup Day races, including millionaire Sunbean, who captured the 2016 Louisiana Turf Classic. One of his most popular competitors was the brilliant Monte Man.
The son of Custom For Carlos, bred by Val Murrell, was claimed for just $5,000 by Ivery Sisters Racing in 2017 at Belmont Park. He made his first start in Louisiana on December 17, 2017, winning an allowance at Fair Grounds, prior to reeling off seven consecutive wins, including a victory in the 2018 Louisiana Cup Sprint at Louisiana Downs. The bay gelding earned $794,233 in 50 career starts, competing at each of the four Louisiana racetracks. He concluded his remarkable run in the $100,000 Louisiana Champions Day Sprint on December 11, 2021.
Murrell had always assured Faucheux and Brian Ivery that once Monte Man was ready to retire, he would have his own pasture at Clear Creek Stud in Folsom, Louisiana. Faucheux has made several trips to visit the popular gelding.
“He’s doing great,” reported Faucheux. “They are taking great care of Monte Man and he still looks racy! He was such a barn favorite, and we all miss him, but we always believe in doing right by our horses.”
The draw for the six features on Louisiana Cup Day will take place on Saturday, July 30. The stakes are as follows:
$67,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile 2 YO LA-Bred 5 ½ furlongs
$67,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile Fillies 2 YO Fillies LA-Bred 5 ½ furlongs
$67,000 Louisiana Cup Filly & Mare Sprint 3 YO & Up F&M, LA-Bred Six furlongs
$67,000 Louisiana Cup Sprint 3 YO & Up LA-Bred Six furlongs
$67,000 Louisiana Cup Turf Classic 3 YO & Up LA-Bred 1 1/16 miles (T)
$67,000 Louisiana Cup Distaff 3 YO & Up F & M LA-Bred 1 1/16 miles (T)
Louisiana Cup Day Festivities
Racing fans of all ages are invited to enjoy the festivities offered on August 6 at Louisiana Downs.
Family-friendly activities on the trackside apron include live music, inflatable bounce houses and water slides, face painting, and much more! Also, enjoy tasty bites from the city’s best food trucks. And don’t forget to claim your FREE $5 wager while you are there!
Handicapping Preview Show Begins at Noon on Cup Day
Louisiana Downs track announcer John McGary and regional racing publicist Martha Claussen will team up for a pre-race handicapping preview at 12:00 pm in the Inside Rail, located on the first floor of the grandstand. They will offer analysis and their selections for each of the races on the Louisiana Cup Day card. The seminar is free and open to all racing fans.
Scholarship Drawings Set for Louisiana Cup Day
The Louisiana Thoroughbred Breeders Association (LTBA) will award two (2) scholarships, each valued at $1,000, during the event.
The drawings will take place after the fifth race. The races begin at 1:45 p.m. and the student must be there to register between 12:45 p.m. and 1:45 p.m. at the designated registration booth.The requirements for the scholarship are as follows:
Must be a college student enrolled full-time for Fall 2022.
Must be in good standing with the college or university.
Must be present at the drawing location to win.
Must have university ID number or Social Security number.
The scholarship will be deposited directly into the student’s account at the college or university. The student is asked to know the name and address of the college that they are attending.
Louisiana Post Times Update
Louisiana Downs announced that post times for the duration of the 2022 Thoroughbred season will get underway at 3:05 pm (Central Time). The lone exception will be on Louisiana Cup Day, when post time will be 1:45 pm on Saturday, August 6.
The 2022 Thoroughbred meet at Louisiana Downs began on May 7 with live racing eachSaturday, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. The 84-day live racing season will conclude on September 27.
For further information on live racing, simulcasting and promotions, visit LAD.com.
About Louisiana Downs
Located near Shreveport in Bossier City, Louisiana, Louisiana Downs opened in 1974 and is now owned by Rubico Acquisition Corporation. With annual Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing seasons, the track is committed to presenting the highest quality racing programs paired with its 150,000 square foot entertainment complex offering casino gambling, dining and plasma screen televisions for sports and simulcast racing.
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