Category: Super Derby

HARRAH’S LOUISIANA DOWNS TO HOST SUPER DERBY FESTIVAL 40 GOLF TOURNAMENT ON AUGUST 29, 2019

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Annual Fundraiser Moves to Northwood Hills Golf Club This Year

 

Bossier City, LA – Harrah’s Louisiana Downs supports many worthy charities and causes. Last Saturday, officials donated $1,000 to support the Shantel Lanerie Breast Cancer Foundation and fans lent their support with purchasing caps, t-shirts and jockey autograph signings.

 

On Thursday, August 29, the Super Derby Festival 40 Charity Golf Tournament will be held at Northwood Hills Golf Club in Shreveport, Louisiana.

 

The event will benefit Chaplain Jimmy Sistrunk and The Backside Benevolence Fund, which provides assistance to the Louisiana racing community and backstretch workers. It serves as one of the special events saluting the annual Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby, the marquee race of the Louisiana Downs Thoroughbred season, which takes place on Saturday, September 7.

 

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 Super Derby t-shirt/cap.

 

“I am always so humbled to see all the support that the Golf Tournament brings to our ministry,” said Sistrunk. “The people in our industry are some of the most caring and supportive people that I know.   And plus, it is a great time that we can get away from the everyday duties of the racetrack.  I am truly a blessed person and Chaplain to get to work with such a great group of people!!!

 

It’s also an event that brings a lot of joy to the Harrah’s Louisiana Downs employees, including Jennifer Sokol, who serves as racing office coordinator.

 

“We had an amazing turnout last year,” said Sokol. “Chaplain Jimmy does so much for our racing community and our annual charity golf tournament is such an enjoyable way to raise valuable funds. We thank our horsemen and local businesses for their support and look forward to another successful event this year!”

 

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.

 

The deadline for registration is August 22. Hole sponsorships for $100, including a sign, are available, but must be purchased by August 16.  For further information, please contact Jennifer Sokol at (318) 741-2512.

 

Super Derby Prelude Winner Leader of Men Sets Sights on the Super Derby

Louisiana Cup Day at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs took place on Saturday, August 3. The card was highlighted by the running of the $60,000 Super Derby Prelude.

 

Leader of Men, owned by Walpole Racing LLC, stretched out to a mile and one-sixteenth for the first time, advancing comfortably to win his first career stakes in a final time of 1:46.96. The victory was celebrated by owner Kevin Walpole and his wife, Amy; trainer Jodie Hodges and jockey Hector Del-Cid.

 

The son of War Front, out of the Unaccounted For mare Refugee, had won three consecutive races at Louisiana Downs and Hodges was confident that his charge would handle the jump to the stakes level.  He described the May 28th foal, as a “big kid”, who was finally getting the hang of his job.

 

Hodges confirmed that Leader of Men came out of the race in great shape and would advance to the Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby on Saturday, September 7.

 

“We hand-walked him on Sunday and he went to the track Monday morning,” said Hodges. “We had to; he loves his works and our goal is to keep him happy.”

 

One very important part of the team is groom Daniel Broussard, who Kevin Walpole mentioned in his post-race interview.

 

“They have a solid bond,” confirmed Hodges. “Leader of Men will bite me and pretty much everyone who comes near him, but not Daniel.”

 

It was also the first stakes win for Hodges, born in Fort Worth, Texas, who has enjoyed his time with the Kentucky-bred half-brother to Hoppertunity, since he arrived in Louisiana in February. His top horse prior to Leader of Men was Texas-bred Chief Three Sox, who won both the Chick Lang Memorial and Texas Racing Hall of Fame stakes in 2000 at Retama Park.

 

Hodges knows that the competition will be tough on September 7.

 

“I’m not going to worry about it,” he stated. “This horse has done everything we have asked of him and we are proud of what he has done here.”

 

 

Noon Post Set for Super Derby Day on Saturday, September 7

Harrah’s Louisiana Downs is preparing for Super Derby Day which will take place on Saturday, September 7. An early post time of 12:00 pm (Central) is planned for the Super Derby card. Nominations close on August 24 for the following seven stakes:

$60,000 Frank L. Brothers                              3 YO & Up                             1 1/16 miles (T)

$60,000 River Cities                                       3 YO & Up F&M                    1 1/16 miles (T)

$60,000 Happy Ticket                                    2 YO Fillies                             One Mile (T)

$60,000 Sunday Silence                                 2 YO                                       One Mile (T)

$300,000 SUPER DERBY (G3)              3 YO                                       1 1/16 miles

$60,000 A. L. (Red) Erwin                             3 YO LA-Bred                        One Mile (T)

$60,000 Elge Rasberry                                   3 YO Fillies, LA-Bred            One Mile (T)

 

Trainer, Jockey and Owner Standings

As of August 6, Joey Foster tops his fellow conditioners with 38 wins this meet. Karl Broberg is second with 30 firsts.  Beverly Burress has saddled 21 winners and Joe Duhon follows with  12 wins.

 

Carlos Lozada has been steady throughout the 2019 Thoroughbred meet and remains in the current leader in the jockey standings with 66 wins. Joel Dominguez is second with 64 victories, including a stakes score aboard Diamond Cutter in the $50,000 Louisiana Filly and Mare Sprint on Louisiana Cup Day. Richard Eramia, who had been dividing his time between Lone Star Park and Louisiana Downs, has made 43 trips the winner’s circle. Rounding out the top four is Aubrie Green, who has won 33 races this season.

 

End Zone Athletics, Inc. has a firm command in the owner standings with 17 wins. Dream Walkin Farms, Inc. follows nine victories and Indian Creek Thoroughbred Farms LLC, Ronnie P. Ward, Albert Salmon, Jr, Penny Scarberry and Margaret Lanetta Haas are tied for third with seven wins each

 

About Harrah’s Louisiana Downs

Located near Shreveport in Bossier City, Louisiana, Louisiana Downs opened in 1974 and was purchased by Caesars Entertainment in December, 2002. 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.

SEVEN STAKES TO BE CONTESTED ON LOUISIANA CUP DAY AT HARRAH’S LOUISIANA DOWNS ON SATURDAY, AUGUST 3

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Top Four Finishers in the $60,000 Super Derby Prelude Advance

to the Grade 3,$300,000 Super Derby on Saturday, September 7

 

Bossier City, LA – The fields are set for Louisiana Cup Day at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs on Saturday, August 3.  First post is 3:15 pm (Central) for the all-stakes card which will feature six stakes for accredited Louisiana-breds as well as the $60,000 Super Derby Prelude.

 

The Prelude for 3-year-olds will be contested at the distance of a mile and one-sixteenth on the main track. Leading the seven-horse field for the Prelude is Roy W. Cobb’s homebred Mr Money Bags who began his year with three consecutive wins, including back-to-back stakes scores at Sam Houston Race Park.

 

The son of Silver City out of the Miss Photogenic mare was Triple Crown nominated by his connections, trainer Mike Neatherlin and Cobb, who teamed up with multiple graded stakes colt Kip Deville over a decade ago. The Oklahoma-bred won the 2007 Breeders’ Cup Mile, earning over $3.3 million in his career.

 

Following his front-running scores in the Texas Stallion Stakes and Groovy Stakes at Sam Houston, Neatherlin shipped Mr Money Bags to Prairie Meadows, where he ran sixth in the $250,000 Iowa Derby.

 

“This horse likes to run on the front end and wins most of his races that way,” said Neatherlin. “In the Iowa Derby, he stumbled out of the gate and got into trouble from there.”

 

Mr Money Bags will be ridden by Texas-based jockey Ernesto Valdez-Jiminez on Saturday, breaking from post position three as the 8-5 morning line choice.

 

“Ernesto really fits the horse and our draw is pretty much perfect,” added Neatherlin.

 

Rotation, a colt by Tapit, bred and owned by Winchell Thoroughbreds LLC, will make ship in for conditioner Steve Asmussen. Stakes placed at Sunland Park, Rotation broke his maiden on May 4 at Churchill Downs and exits a $75,000 allowance there on June 1. Richard Eramia has the call and will break from the far outside post for the Hall of Fame trainer, who won last year’s Super Derby with Limation.

 

 

Blessed Again, the lone filly in the stakes, is the second-highest earner in the field, with four starts at Oaklawn Park before competing in two stakes for owner Glynn A. Puryear, Jr. Trained by John Henry Prather, Jr., the daughter of Paynter exits an eighth-place finish in the Grade 3 Indiana Oaks last month at Indiana Downs. She will be ridden by Joel Dominguez, who is currently the second leading rider at Louisiana Downs.

 

As reported by Mary Rampellini of the Daily Racing Form, Leader of Men, a half-brother to Hoppertunity, will make his stakes debut in the Prelude. Owned by Walpole Racing LLC, Leader of Men, the gelded son of War Front has won his last three races. Each of the victories have come at Louisiana Downs, beginning with his maiden-breaking score on May 6. Bred in Kentucky, Leader of Men is trained by Jodie Hodges and will be ridden by Hector Del-Cid.

 

“He was a May foal and basically, he’s just a big kid,” said Hodges. “His brain is finally catching up with his body, but has done everything we’ve asked of him. He’s ready!”

 

The Super Derby Prelude, the sixth race of the card, runs at 5:35 pm (CT). The complete field, in post position order, with riders is: Leader of Men,  Hector Del-Cid; Blessed Again, Joel Dominguez; Mr Money Bags, Ernesto Valdez-Jiminez; Trevilion, Diego Saenz; Fredonian, Carlos Lozada; Paynt Battle, Thomas Pompell and Rotation, Richard Eramia.

 

The winner as well as the second, third and fourth-place finishers, will receive a fees-paid berth to the Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby on Saturday, September 7, which is the richest race of the 2019 Louisiana Downs racing season.

 

Pickens Leads the Field in the $50,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile

The first feature of the afternoon is the $50,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile for Louisiana-bred 2-year-old colts and geldings.  A field of eight will compete at six furlongs on the main track.

 

Pickens, a colt by Goldencents, will make his third career start for owners William and Corinne Heiligbrodt. Following a troubled debut at Churchill Downs on June 21, he broke his maiden impressively three weeks later at Evangeline Downs, drawing off by over six lengths. Trained by Asmussen, Richard Eramia will guide the 9-5 choice from post position four.

 

Trainer Beverly Burress will saddle Luckenbacher,  a gelded son of Mr. Besilu who broke his maiden at Evangeline Downs on June 8 before shipping to Lone Star Park for last month’s Texas Stallion Stakes. He closed well for third under jockey Diego Saenz, who has the return call.

 

Defending Champion Monte Man Returns in the $50,000 Louisiana Sprint

Monte Man, the pride and joy of Ivery Sisters Racing, returns to Louisiana Downs on Saturday to defend his title in the $50,000 Louisiana Sprint.

 

Claimed for $25,000, the 6-year-old son of Custom For Carlos is closing in on the half-million mark in earnings for trainer Ron Faucheux. Honored as Louisiana Bred Horse of the Year in 2018, the bay gelding will be seeking his 13thcareer win on Louisiana Cup Day.

 

Regular pilot Gerard Melancon will guide the 4-5 morning line favorite from post position two.

“He’s doing great,” reported Faucheux following his bullet work on July 24. “He’s not the best work horse, but even Gerard was impressed with how he did last week.”

 

Faucheux, who has conditioned respected stakes champion including Sunbean and Gantry, relishes having Monte Man in his barn.

 

“You never know if you will get another horse like him,” he stated. “He loves his job and coming into this race, he’s never been better!”

 

His top competition in the six furlong main track event includes State Treasurer, owned by Royalty Thoroughbreds LLC and Rodney L. Verret’s Laughingsaintssong.  State Treasurer, a 5-year-old son of Munnings has won his last two allowance races here and will be ridden by Eramia for trainer Steve Asmussen. Rider Colby Hernandez has the mount on Laughingsaintssong, who will make his Louisiana Downs debut for conditioner Allen Landry.

 

 

Bermuda Star and Is Too Renew Their Rivalry in the $50,000 Louisiana Cup Distaff

Ten accredited Louisiana-bred fillies and mares will take to the Franks Turf Course for the $50,000 Louisiana Cup Distaff.

 

Bermuda Star, owned by Brittlyn Stable, Inc., won the 2018 edition of the race with a powerful finish up the rail under jockey Diego Saenz.  The 5-year-old mare by Star Guitar was bred by Tom Curtis and Wayne Simpson and is trained by Victor Arceneaux. She has won seven of her 22 career starts and earnings of $291,080.  Her last win came in the Louisiana Legends Turf Distaff on May 25 at Evangeline Downs. She will reunite with Saenz, who will break from the rail post.

 

She will renew her rivalry with Is Too, a 4-year-old daughter of Midshipman, who defeated her in the Opelousas Stakes at Evangeline Downs on July 12. Owned by Barrone Farms LLC, Is Too has been a solid stakes competitor this year for trainer Edward Johnston. She ran fourth to Bermuda Star in the Louisiana Legends, but turned the tables with a gate-to-wire score in their last meeting. Colby Hernandez has the return call aboard the chestnut filly.

 

Eskenformore, trained by James Hodges, has a proven turf record at Louisiana Downs and was last year’s runner-up. Owned and bred by Sugarland Thoroughbreds LLC, the 6-year-old mare will be ridden by current Louisiana Downs leading jockey Carlos Lozada.

 

A Field of Twelve to Compete in the $50,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile Fillies

A very competitive field of 12 accredited 2-year-old Louisiana-bred fillies will vie in the six-furlong $50,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile Fillies.

 

Tuffology, a daughter of Astrology, owned by Janet Marden, has been installed as the 7-2 morning line favorite. She won at first asking here on July 15, scoring by over three lengths under jockey Joel Dominguez. Trained by Michael Stewart, she will make just her second career start on Saturday afternoon.  First U Make Aroux is also a debut winner for conditioner Justin Jeansonne. Owned by Cheryl and Dennis Dendy, the filly by Due Date scored on July 17 at Evangeline Downs. She will be ridden by Hall of Fame jockey Edgar Prado as the second choice of 4-1.

 

Sarah’s Passion, winner of the filly’s division of the $75,000 D.S. “Shine” Young Futurity on July 5 at Evangeline Downs, will make her second start for trainer Ricky Courville.  Bred and owned by Perform Stables Inc., she is sired by Songandaprayer and will reunite with Colby Hernandez at odds of 9-2.

 

“That was a big win for her, and she was a little tired afterwards,” said Courville. “But she’s doing really well; had a nice work Saturday at Copper Crown..”

 

Courville has a barn full of 2-year-old fillies and will also run Leslie Schiff’s Schiffs Corner, another filly by Songandaprayer.

 

“Sarah’s Passion has natural speed,” he added. “My only concern is that she’s never gotten dirt in her face and might not like that. “I’ll just leave the trip up to Colby.”

 

In the Navy to Defend His Title in the $50,000 Louisiana Cup Turf Classic

The $50,000 Louisiana Turf Cup Classic attracted nine runners going a mile and one-sixteenth over the Franks Turf Course.

 

In the Navy, owned by Kendel D. Standlee, returns to defend his title for trainer Scott Gelner. The 5-year-old son of Midshipman will be ridden by Diego Saenz as the 2-1 morning line favorite. He won the Mr Sulu Stakes at Fair Grounds last November and will be in pursuit of his first win of 2019 on Saturday.

 

“He’s just a great turf horse,” said Gelner. “I am proud of the fact that he has won on each of the Louisiana turf courses.

 

Theoryintopractice, who ran third to In the Navy in the $75,000 Louisiana Legends Turf at Evangeline Downs, is the 5-2 second choice for owner Courtney Barousse and trainer Steve Asmussen. The son of Into Mischief has won five of his nine turf races and will be ridden by Richard Eramia.

 

Eden Grey’s Kitten, is the high earner in the field and will make his 40th career start. The son of Kitten’s Joy is now trained by Steve Flint and will break from the rail under Gerard Melancon.

 

$50,000 Louisiana Cup Filly and Mare Sprint

The $50,000 Louisiana Filly and Mare Sprint will close out Louisiana Cup Day with a field of  ten distaffers competing at the distance of six furlongs.

 

Galaxy Thirtysix, winner of the Louisiana Legends Night Distaff Starter at Evangeline Downs is the 7-2 morning line favorite. The  5-year-old Greeley’s Galaxy mare also prevailed in the $60,000 Premier Night Ladies Starter Stakes at Delta Downs on February 9 for owner Arian Haxhillari.   Trainer  Ron Faucheux will give a leg up to Edgar Prado.

 

The field includes stakes winners Yes Gorgeous, owned and trained by Scott Gelner and defending champion P Boo, who has won over $200,000 in her career, but looking for her first win of 2019.

 

Hall of Fame Jockey Edgar Prado To Ride on Cup Day

In addition to the leading riders of the Louisiana Downs meet, there will be some new jockeys making the trip to Bossier City for Saturday’s card. Edgar S. Prado has six mounts on Saturday

 

Born in Peru, Prado, 52, is one of the elite North American jockeys to have surpassed the 7,000 mark in wins. His illustrious list of graded stakes victories is topped by the 2006 Kentucky Derby with Barbaro. Prado was inducted into the National Museum Racing Hall of Fame in 2008.

 

Gerard Melancon, Ashley Broussard, Colby Hernandez and Diego Saenz also have mounts on Louisiana Cup Day.

 

Shantel Lanerie Breast Cancer Fundraiser To Take Place on Louisiana Cup Day

Harrah’s Louisiana Downs will conduct a fundraiser on Saturday, August 3 in support of the Shantel Lanerie Cancer Breast Foundation.  The beloved Louisiana native and wife of jockey Corey Lanerie was diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer in January, 2018 and passed away just six months later.  She is survived by her parents, husband and daughter, Brittlyn.

 

Rick Mocklin, who was Lanerie’s agent for ten years and his wife, Jeanette, were close friends of Shantel.  Mocklin serves as founder and president of the Shantel Lanerie Breast Cancer Foundation. It was founded with a mission of educating, empowering and encouraging women to become pro-active in early detection, and if diagnosed, surviving breast cancer.  Acknowledging that breast cancer impacts the entire family, the Foundation designates funds raised through donations and fundraisers to assist with basic needs of breast cancer patients through every stage of diagnosis and treatment.

 

Mocklin is grateful to Louisiana Downs for their interest in assisting with fundraising efforts on Louisiana Cup Day.  A table will be set up in the grandstand with monogrammed apparel from the foundation, including t-shirts,  caps, bumper stickers and pink handkerchiefs.  Jockeys will be on hand to autograph the items, with all proceeds to benefit the foundation.

 

“Breast cancer can be devastating for so many people,” explained Mocklin. “To lose Shantel when she was just 42 years-old was heartbreaking for her family and many friends. The foundation has already helped 30 women diagnosed with breast cancer and we want to keep raising funds to support those in need.”

 

Handicapping Preview Show Set for Saturday, August 3

Louisiana Downs track announcer John McGary and regional racing publicist Martha Claussen will team up for a pre-race handicapping preview at 2:00 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.

 

LTBA Scholarship Drawings Set for Louisiana Cup Day

The Louisiana Thoroughbred Breeders Association will award two (2) scholarships, each valued at $1,000, on Saturday, August 3.

 

The drawings will be between the fifth and sixth races. The races begin at 3:15 p.m. and the student must be there to register between 2:15 p.m. and 3:15 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 2018.

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.

 

For more information, visit louisianabred.com or call (504) 947-4676.

Super Derby Festival 40 Charity Golf Tournament Set for August 29

The Super Derby Festival 40 will be held on Thursday, August 29, at Northwood Hills Golf Club in Shreveport, Louisiana.

 

The event will benefit Chaplain Jimmy Sistrunk and The Backside Benevolence Fund, which provides assistance to the Louisiana racing community and backstretch workers. It serves as one of the special events saluting the annual Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby, the marquee race of the Louisiana Downs Thoroughbred season, which takes place on Saturday, September 7.

 

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 personor $320 for a four-person team.  The fee includes green fees, golf cart, lunch, and Super Derby t-shirt/cap.

 

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.

 

The deadline for registration is August 22. Hole sponsorships for $100, including a sign, are available, but must be purchased by August 16. For further information, please contact Sokol at (318) 741-2512.

 

Post Times and Stakes Schedule

Live racing will be conducted Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday and Saturday with a 3:15 p.m. (Central) post time through September 25. The 84-day meet features 14 stakes highlighted by two major events, Louisiana Cup Day on Saturday, August 3 and Super Derby Day on Saturday, September 7.

 

About Harrah’s Louisiana Downs

Located near Shreveport in Bossier City, Louisiana, Louisiana Downs opened in 1974 and was purchased by Caesars Entertainment in December, 2002. 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.

 

NOMINATIONS CLOSED FOR LOUISIANA CUP DAY AT HARRAH’S LOUISIANA DOWNS ON SATURDAY, AUGUST 3

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Bossier City, LA – Nominations for the annual Louisiana Cup Day at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs on Saturday, August 3 have closed with considerable interest from local and nationally prominent horsemen.  The Louisiana Cup Day program will feature six divisional stakes for accredited Louisiana-breds and the $60,000 Super Derby Prelude for 3-year-olds going a mile and one-sixteenth on the main track. The winner will earn a berth to the Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby on Saturday, September 7, which is the richest race of the 2019 Louisiana Downs Thoroughbred racing season.

 

The Super Derby Prelude closed with 24 nominations with Hall of Fame conditioner Steve Asmussenconsidering options for three runners. They include Comedian, a colt by Into Mischief who broke his maiden earlier this year at Oaklawn Park and ran in the $300,000 Oaklawn Invitational Stakes on May 4. He is owned by Bloom Racing Stable, the connections behind distaff superstar Midnight Bisou. The two other nominees are owned by Winchell Thoroughbreds LLC. Rotation, a son of Tapit, ran fourth in the Riley Allision Derby at Sunland Park and recently competed at the allowance level at Churchill Downs. Wicked Indeed, also sired by Tapit, has tested the wagers in two Grade 3 stakes, running fourth in both the LeComte at Fair Grounds and the Sunland Derby at Sunland Park.

 

Asmussen won the 2018 Super Derby with Limation for owner Michael Lankford.

 

As reported last week, trainer Scott Gelner who won stakes last year on both Louisiana Cup Day and the Super Derby undercard, has nominated Taylor’s Spirit for the Prelude. The Kentucky-bred daughter of Algorithms, owned by Norman Stables, LLC, won the $60,000 Happy Ticket last September at Louisiana Downs and added three more stakes wins since that victory. She has competed in graded stakes company, running last year at Churchill Downs  in the Grade 2, $200,000 Pocahontas. Taylor’s Spirit exits a third-place finish in the Grade 3, $200,000 Iowa Oaks at Prairie Meadows on July 5. She’s won six of her 12 starts and $250,730 since making her debut in Iowa last July. Also, Mr Money Bags has been nominated by  his conditioner, Mike Neatherlin.  Bred by his owner, Roy W. Cobb, Mr Money Bags established himself as a serious runner earlier this year at Sam Houston Race Park, winning two consecutive stakes by a combined margin of 12 lengths. Sired by Silver City, Mr Money Bags was Triple Crown nominated by his connections, and following his win in the Groovy Stakes in Houston, shipped to Churchill Downs to compete in the Grade 3, $400,000 Pat Day Mile. He garnered another stakes win at Lone Star Park on June 1 and made his most recent start in the $250,000 Iowa Derby at Prairie Meadows.

 

The draw for the following Louisiana Cup Day stakes will take place on July 27.

 

$50,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile                    2 YO LA-Bred                        Six furlongs

$50,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile Fillies          2 YO Fillies LA-Bred             Six furlongs

$50,000 Louisiana Cup Filly & Mare Sprint  3 YO & Up F&M, LA-Bred  Six furlongs

$50,000 Louisiana Cup Sprint                        3 YO & Up LA-Bred              Six furlongs

$50,000 Louisiana Cup Turf Classic              3 YO & Up LA-Bred              1 1/16 miles (T)

$50,000 Louisiana Distaff                              3 YO & Up F & M LA-Bred  1 1/16 miles (T)

$60,000 Super Derby Prelude                         3 Y0                                        1 1/16 miles

 

“We are pleased with the interest from horsemen for the Louisiana Cup Day stakes,” said David Heitzmann, Harrah’s Louisiana Downs Director of Racing. “It will be an excellent showcase for Louisiana-breds and once again, the top four runners in the Prelude will earn a berth to the Grade 3 Super Derby on September 7 with all fees waived.”

 

Shantel Lanerie Breast Cancer Fundraiser To Take Place on Louisiana Cup Day

Harrah’s Louisiana Downs will conduct a fundraiser on Saturday, August in support of the Shantel Lanerie Cancer Breast Foundation.  The beloved Louisiana native and wife of jockey Corey Laneriewas diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer in January, 2018 and passed away just six months later.  She is survived by her parents, husband and daughter, Brittlyn.

 

Rick Mocklin, who was Lanerie’s agent for ten years and his wife, Jeanette, were close friends of Shantel.  Mocklin serves as founder and president of the Shantel Lanerie Breast Cancer Foundation. It was founded with a mission of educating, empowering and encouraging women to become pro-active in early detection, and if diagnosed, surviving breast cancer.  Acknowledging that breast cancer impacts the entire family, the Foundation designates funds raised through donations and fundraisers to assist with basic needs of breast cancer patients through every stage of diagnosis and treatment.

 

Mocklin is grateful to Louisiana Downs for their interest in assisting with fundraising efforts on Louisiana Cup Day.  A table will be set up in the grandstand with monogrammed apparel from the foundation, including t-shirts,  caps, bumper stickers and pink handkerchiefs.  Jockeys will be on hand to autograph the items, with all proceeds to benefit the foundation.

 

“Breast cancer can be devastating for so many people,” explained Mocklin. “To lose Shantel when she was just 42 years-old was heartbreaking for her family and many friends. The foundation has already helped 30 women diagnosed with breast cancer and we want to keep raising funds to support those in need.”

 

Handicapping Preview Show Set for Saturday, August 3

Louisiana Downs track announcer John McGary and regional racing publicist Martha Claussen will team up for a pre-race handicapping preview at 2:00 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.

 

LTBA Scholarship Drawings Set for Louisiana Cup Day

The Louisiana Thoroughbred Breeders Association will award two (2) scholarships, each valued at $1,000, on Saturday, August 3.

 

The drawings will be between the fifth and sixth races. The races begin at 3:15 p.m. and the student must be there to register between 2:15 p.m. and 3:15 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 2018.

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.
“The Louisiana Thoroughbred Breeders Association 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. Our hope is that these scholarships get the younger generations invested in LTBA so that our organization stays the top breeding incentive program in the United States.”

 

For more information, visit louisianabred.com or call (504) 947-4676.

Super Derby Festival 40 Charity Golf Tournament Set for August 29

The Super Derby Festival 40 will be held on Thursday, August 29, at Northwood Hills Golf Club in Shreveport, Louisiana.

 

The event will benefit Chaplain Jimmy Sistrunk and The Backside Benevolence Fund, which provides assistance to the Louisiana racing community and backstretch workers. It serves as one of the special events saluting the annual Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby, the marquee race of the Louisiana Downs Thoroughbred season, which takes place on Saturday, September 7.

 

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 Super Derby t-shirt/cap.

 

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.

 

The deadline for registration is August 22. Hole sponsorships for $100, including a sign, are available, but must be purchased by August 16.

 

For further information, please contact Sokol at (318) 741-2512.

 

Post Times and Stakes Schedule

Live racing will be conducted Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday and Saturday with a 3:15 p.m. (Central) post time through September 25. The 84-day meet features 14 stakes highlighted by two major events, Louisiana Cup Day on Saturday, August 3 and Super Derby Day on Saturday, September 7.

 

About Harrah’s Louisiana Downs

Located near Shreveport in Bossier City, Louisiana, Louisiana Downs opened in 1974 and was purchased by Caesars Entertainment in December, 2002. 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.

NOMINATIONS FOR LOUISIANA CUP DAY AT HARRAH’S LOUISIANA DOWNS CLOSE SATURDAY, JULY 20

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Bossier City, LA – The Louisiana Downs racing office is busy this week taking nominations for Louisiana Cup Day, which is set for Saturday, August 3. Nominations for the seven stakes will close this Saturday, July 20.

Trainer Scott Gelner who won stakes last year on both Louisiana Cup Day and the Super Derby undercard has two horses nominated for Louisiana Cup Day.

Taylor’s Spirit,  a Kentucky-bred daughter of Algorithms, owned by Norman Stables, LLC, won the $60,000 Happy Ticket last September at Louisiana Downs and added three more stakes wins since that victory. She has competed in graded stakes company, running last year at Churchill Downs  in the Grade 2, $200,000 Pocahontas. Taylor’s Spirit exits a third-place finish in the Grade 3, $200,000 Iowa Oaks at Prairie Meadows on July 5. She’s won six of her 12 starts and $250,730 since making her debut in Iowa last July.

“She’s a nice filly,” said Gelner. “We would like to give her a try in the Prelude and maybe get a shot in the Super Derby.”

Gelner currently as 45 horses in training with the majority competing in Louisiana and Prairie Meadows. One of his personal favorites, Yes Gorgeous, is under consideration for the $50,000 Louisiana Cup Sprint as well as the $50,000 Louisiana Distaff.

Gelner purchased the 4-year-old daughter of Mass Media for $1,700 at the Louisiana Mixed Sale.

“I trained her mama for a few races,” said Gelner. “She had a few problems, but overcame them with her big heart.”

Yes Gorgeous has rewarded Gelner with both heart and a solid return on his investment. She’s made 25 career starts, with a record of five wins, ten seconds and two third-place finishes and earnings of $258,220. In the $60,000 Elge Rasberry here last September, she defeated nine Louisiana -bred fillies, overcoming torrential rain during the running of the race.

“She tries hard every time she runs and even on an off day, gives her all,” stated Gelner. “She is just a blessing from God for me and my family and has handled everything we have ever asked: turf, dirt, even running against the boys.”

 

Mary Rampellini of the Daily Racing Form broke the news that Mr Money Bags is being pointed to the Super Derby by his trainer, Mike Neatherlin.  Bred by his owner, Roy W. Cobb, Mr Money Bags established himself as a serious runner earlier this year at Sam Houston Race Park, winning two consecutive stakes by a combined margin of 12 lengths. Sired by Silver City, Mr Money Bags was Triple Crown nominated by his connections, and following his win in the Groovy Stakes in Houston, shipped to Churchill Downs to compete in the Grade 3, $400,000 Pat Day Mile. He garnered another stakes win at Lone Star Park on June 1 and made his most recent start in the $250,000 Iowa Derby at Prairie Meadows.

“This horse likes to run on the front end and wins most of his races that way,” said Neatherlin. “In the Iowa Derby, he stumbled out of the gate and got into trouble from there.”

Neatherlin hopes to run Mr Money Bags in the $60,000 Prelude, which awards the winner a berth into the Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby on Saturday, September 7.

 

Nominations for the following Louisiana Cup Day stakes close on July 20.

$50,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile                    2 YO LA-Bred                        Six furlongs

$50,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile Fillies          2 YO Fillies LA-Bred             Six furlongs

$50,000 Louisiana Cup Filly & Mare Sprint  3 YO & Up F&M, LA-Bred  Six furlongs

$50,000 Louisiana Cup Sprint                        3 YO & Up LA-Bred              Six furlongs

$50,000 Louisiana Cup Turf Classic              3 YO & Up LA-Bred              1 1/16 miles (T)

$50,000 Louisiana Distaff                              3 YO & Up F & M LA-Bred  1 1/16 miles (T)

$60,000 Super Derby Prelude                         3 Y0                                        1 1/16 miles

 

Trainer, Jockey and Owner Standings

As of July 16, Joey Foster remains on top of the trainer standings with 31 wins. Karl Broberg is second with 25 wins.Joe O. Duhon is third with 14 winners and Beverly Burress has saddled 13 winners to round out the top four conditioners.

Carlos Lozada and Joel Dominguez are tied for lead in the jockey standings with 52 wins each since the meet began on May 4. Richard Eramia, who is dividing his time between Louisiana Downs and Lone Star Park, is third with 32 victories and Aubrie Green follows with 26 wins.

End Zone Athletics, Inc. tops the  owner standings with 12 wins. Dream Walkin Farms, Inc. is second with nine wins and four owners, Indian Creek Thoroughbred Farms, LLC. Penny Scarberry. Ronnie Ward and Albert Salmon, Jr., are tied with five victories each.

 

 

Super Tuesday Pick 4 Pays $629 on July 16

A new wager, the Super Tuesday Pick 4, continues to build momentum since making its debut on Tuesday, June 25.  The wager teams two Caesar’s Entertainment racetracks: Harrah’s Louisiana Downs and Indiana Grand Racing and Casino, which both offer Tuesday matinee racing programs. Two races from each property are selected for the Super Tuesday, Pick 4 wager, with an industry-low 15% takeout.

Even with the first race from Indiana Grand taken off the turf. the winning payoff  on Tuesday, July 16 returned $629.85. The wager is garnering attention from horseplayers as last week’s Super Tuesday Pick 4 paid $787.10.

 

Empire of Hope Day Featuring The Rescue Run To Take Place Saturday, July 20

Fans at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs have always enjoyed the Wiener Dog Races. This Saturday, Louisiana Downs will host a special event called The Rescue Run to raise funds for retired racehorse aftercare and local pet charities. The festivities will begin at 11 am when local shelters and pet organizations race their furry friends to the finish line! Food trucks, inflatables, face painting and pet adoption will be available before the live Thoroughbred racing gets underway. For more information, contact cboddie@caesars.com.

 

Super Derby Festival 40 Charity Golf Tournament Set for August 29

The Super Derby Festival 40 will be held on Thursday, August 29, at Northwood Hills Golf Club in Shreveport, Louisiana.

The event will benefit Chaplain Jimmy Sistrunk and The Backside Benevolence Fund, which provides assistance to the Louisiana racing community and backstretch workers. It serves as one of the special events saluting the annual Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby, the marquee race of the Louisiana Downs Thoroughbred season, which takes place on Saturday, September 7.

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 Super Derby t-shirt/cap.

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.

The deadline for registration is August 22. Hole sponsorships for $100, including a sign, are available, but must be purchased by August 16.

For further information, please contact Sokol at (318) 741-2512.

 

Post Times and Stakes Schedule

Live racing will be conducted Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday and Saturday with a 3:15 p.m. (Central) post time through September 25. The 84-day meet features 14 stakes highlighted by two major events, Louisiana Cup Day on Saturday, August 3 and Super Derby Day on Saturday, September 7.

 

About Harrah’s Louisiana Downs

Located near Shreveport in Bossier City, Louisiana, Louisiana Downs opened in 1974 and was purchased by Caesars Entertainment in December, 2002. 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.

 

HARRAH’S LOUISIANA DOWNS TO HOST RACING HALL OF FAME INDUCTION CEREMONY ON SATURDAY, JULY 13, 2019

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Super Derby Festival 40 Charity Golf Tournament Set for Thursday, August 29

 

Bossier City, LA – Harrah’s Louisiana Downs will honor the first class of its Racing Hall of Fame on Saturday, July 13. It will serve as an opportunity to honor the achievements of horse owners, trainers, jockeys, horses and property contributors who have played pivotal roles in the rich history of Harrah’s Louisiana Downs.

 

The Harrah’s Louisiana Downs Racing Hall of Fame Committee selected the following recipients for the inaugural class. In addition, fan voting was offered and the public contributed to honor one additional inductee in the category of trainer, jockey, racing contributor and horse.  Those results will be announced in Saturday’s induction ceremony, which will take place in the lobby of Harrah’s Louisiana Downs following the races.  The festivities are open to the public.

 

These are the inductees into the 2019 Harrah’s Louisiana Downs Racing Hall of Fame.

 

LAD Racing Hall of Fame Owner

  • John Franks – John Franks was the leading owner at Louisiana Downs for 18 years and much of the track’s success can be attributed to him.  Franks was an Eclipse Award winning owner and his homebred Answer Lively was honored as 1998 Two-Year Colt of the Year.

 

LAD Racing Hall of Fame Trainer

  • Frank L. Brothers – Winner of nearly 800 races at Louisiana Downs and nine consecutive training titles from 1980 – 1988.  Brothers is the all-time  leader in Stakes victories with 127.  Louisiana Downs named a stakes race in his honor in 2019.
  • C.W. Walker – The track’s second all-time leading trainer with 820 wins.  A mainstay at Louisiana Downs he was best known for his prowess with claiming horses but also had 16 stakes winners. He was the leading trainer in 1977.

 

 

LAD Racing Hall of Fame Contributor

  • Edward J. DeBartolo, Sr. – Instrumental in the early development of Louisiana Downs as one of the first owners. The track was a success from the start, setting numerous national records for handle and attendance throughout the 1970’s and ’80’s under his oversight.

 

 

 

LAD Racing Hall of Fame Jockey

  • Ronald Ardoin – A resident of Haughton, Louisiana, Ardoin is the all-time winningest jockey at Louisiana Downs. He made history as the 16th jockey nationally to have 5,000 wins when he rode Heart of an Angel to victory at Louisiana Downs.
  • Larry Snyder – Legendary Jockey with a 35-year riding career. Loved by fans at Louisiana Downs and Oaklawn Park, Larry worked as a steward at the track after retiring from the saddle in 1994.

 

LAD Racing Hall of Fame Horses

  • Sunday Silence – The Super Derby Winner in 1989 in the same year that he was named Horse of the Year and Champion 3-Year-Old Male. He was winner of The Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes and Breeder’s Cup Classic.  Sunday Silence was inducted into the National Museum of Racing Hall of Fame in 1996.
  • Free Spirits Joy – Louisiana-bred winner of the Super Derby in 1991. He made 29 Louisiana starts and 3 at Remington Park. He died at the age at 27 in 2015.

 

 

Super Tuesday Pick 4 Pays $797 on July 9

A new wager, the Super Tuesday Pick 4, continues to build momentum since making its debut on Tuesday, June 25.  The wager teams two Caesar’s Entertainment racetracks: Harrah’s Louisiana Downs and Indiana Grand Racing and Casino, which both offer Tuesday matinee racing programs. Two races from each property are selected for the Super Tuesday, Pick 4 wager, with an industry-low 15% takeout.

 

With just two favorites winning in the Tuesday, July 9 sequence, a record $787.10, for the $.50 wager, was returned to savvy horseplayers.

 

“We are very pleased that horseplayers are catching on to this wager,” said Eric Halstrom, Harrah’s Louisiana Downs Vice President of Operations “Offering the 15% takeout was very important to us. Had we run it with the standard takeout of 25%, the winning ticket would have paid $694.50. We want the best for our horseplayers and look forward to offering the Super Tuesday Pick 4 through September 24.”

 

 

Super Derby Festival 40 Charity Golf Tournament Set for August 29

The Super Derby Festival 40 will be held on Thursday, August 29, at Northwood Hills Golf Clubin Shreveport, Louisiana.

 

The event will benefit Chaplain Jimmy Sistrunk and The Backside Benevolence Fund, which provides assistance to the Louisiana racing community and backstretch workers. It serves as one of the special events saluting the annual Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby, the marquee race of the Louisiana Downs Thoroughbred season, which takes place on Saturday, September 7.

 

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 Super Derby t-shirt/cap.

“I am always so humbled to see all the support that the Golf Tournament brings to our ministry,” said Sistrunk. “The people in our industry are some of the most caring and supportive people that I know.   And plus, it is a great time that we can get away from the everyday duties of the racetrack.  I am truly a blessed person and Chaplain to get to work with such a great group of people!!!

 

It’s also an event that brings a lot of joy to the Harrah’s Louisiana Downs employees, including Jennifer Sokol, who serves as racing office coordinator.

 

“We had an amazing turnout last year,” said Sokol. “Chaplain Jimmy does so much for our racing community and our annual charity golf tournament is such an enjoyable way to raise valuable funds. We thank our horsemen and local businesses for their support and look forward to another successful event this year!”

 

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.

 

The deadline for registration is August 9. Hole sponsorships for $100, including a sign, are available, but must be purchased by August 1.

 

For further information, please contact Sokol at (318) 741-2512.

 

 

About Harrah’s Louisiana Downs

Located near Shreveport in Bossier City, Louisiana, Louisiana Downs opened in 1974 and was purchased by Caesars Entertainment in December, 2002. 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.

 

LIVE THOROUGHBRED RACING AT HARRAH’S LOUISIANA DOWNS GETS UNDERWAY ON SATURDAY, MAY 4

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Opening Day Features Eight Races and the Simulcast of the 145th Kentucky Derby

 

Bossier City, LA – The 2019 Thoroughbred racing season at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs commences on Saturday, May 4. A new post time has been set for each Saturday with live racing to begin at 12:55 pm (Central). The meet’s additional race days of Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday will get underway at 3:15 pm.

 

Opening day will feature plenty of action for racing fans and an entertaining day for families as well. Beginning at 11:00 am along the track apron, there will be a children’s area with free bounce houses, water slides, face painting and culinary delights from the most popular food trucks in Shreveport-Bossier City.  Of course, racing fans will also be able to watch and wager on the  145th Kentucky Derby and each of the stakes races from Churchill Downs.

 

Track announcer John McGary and his guest, Jimmy “The Dee”, will conduct a pre-race handicapping seminar at The Inside Rail at 11:55 am. They will offer analysis of Saturday’s eight live races at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs as well as their insights on the Kentucky Derby.

 

Saturday will also mark the final day of the Road to Kentucky Handicapping Contest which got underway at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs on January 19. Fans were able to make selections on major stakes races as well as the key Kentucky Derby prep races. Each participant earned points and following this Saturday’s Kentucky Derby, the winner will be awarded the $1,000 grand prize.

 

“The response from our horseplayers for this contest has been exceptional,” said Eric Halstrom, Harrah’s Louisiana Downs Vice President of Operations. “We appreciate the loyalty of our local race fans and look forward to kicking off the 2019 Thoroughbred racing season with our  opening day festivities, live racing, and of course, the simulcast of the Kentucky Derby.”

 

Trainers To Watch

Karl Broberg, who won the 2018 training title here with 36 wins, returns with a full barn. Last December, he became just the third Thoroughbred trainer in North America to win 500 races in a calendar year. Hall of Fame conditioner Steve Asmussen and Scott Lake were the only other horsemen to accomplish that feat.  Heading into May of this year, Broberg is the leading trainer, by wins, according to Equibase statistics.

 

Joey Foster of Vinton, Louisiana, who was the leading conditioner in 2016 and 2017,  Al Stall, Jr., Beverly Burress, H. B. Johnson,  James Hodges, Scott Gelner, Patti Turner, Jorge Gomez, Ronnie Ward, and Danny Pish will also be prominent throughout the meet.

 

“We thank our many returning horsemen for their support of our Thoroughbred meet,” said David Heitzmann, Harrah’s Louisiana Downs Director of Racing. “While our Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby always receives tremendous attention, we are also committed to carding plenty of races for accredited Louisiana-breds on both our main track and Franks Turf Course.”

 

Leading Rider Emanuel Nieves Hoping for A Second Title

Jockey Emanuel Nieves  won the first leading rider title of his career last September when he made 85 trips to the winner’s circle.  The hard-working and affable young man is eager to replicate his success at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs when the meet begins on Saturday.

 

Born in Caguas, Puerto Rico, a municipality south of San Juan, the 26-year-old Nieves attended Puerto Rico’s Escuela Vocational Hipica, the famed jockey school that also produced the sensational Ortiz brothers, Irad and Jose.

 

Two years ago, Nieves got the call from respected former rider and jockey agent Ronald Ardoin encouraging him to come to Louisiana Downs.

 

Nieves appreciates the hard work of his agent in getting him quality mounts. He rides for a multitude of trainers including Joey Foster, Al Stall, Jr., H. B. Johnson and Joe Duhon

 

“Every day he shows up at the barn, even on his days off.” explained Foster. “He has an excellent work ethic; he’s polite and very professional.”

 

Following last year’s meet at Louisiana Downs, Nieves made a trip to Puerto Rico to see his family and had an opportunity to ride several races at Hipodromo Camarero.

 

“Riding in Puerto Rico was very special for me,” he explained. “Plus, it is always wonderful to visit my family.”

 

And on that topic, Nieves proudly announced that he will become a father in October when he and his girlfriend of four years, Milyorie Marie, will welcome their first child, a son!

 

For now, his mindset is on arriving early each morning in the barn area, working horses for each of his clients and winning races four afternoons a week.

 

“I believe in working hard everyday and doing my best for the horsemen who I ride for,” stated Nieves. “I want to win the title here again!”

 

Nieves will have plenty of competition as the 2019 jockey colony will include Gerardo Mora, Aubrie Green, Larry Taylor, Erica Murray, Eguard Tejera, Hector Del-Cid and Jose Guerrero as the meet gets underway.

 

2019 Thoroughbred Stakes Schedule

The 84-day meet will include 14 stakes highlighted by two major stakes programs, Louisiana Cup Day on Saturday, August 3 and Super Derby Day on Saturday, September 7.

 

Harrah’s Louisiana Downs 2019 Stakes Schedule

Saturday, August 3                           Louisiana Cup Day               Noms close July 20

$50,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile                    2 YO LA-Bred                        Six furlongs

$50,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile Fillies          2 YO Fillies LA-Bred             Six furlongs

$50,000 Louisiana Cup Filly & Mare Sprint  3 YO & Up F&M, LA-Bred  Six furlongs

$50,000 Louisiana Cup Sprint                        3 YO & Up LA-Bred              Six furlongs

$50,000 Louisiana Cup Turf Classic              3 YO & Up LA-Bred              1 1/16 miles (T)

$50,000 Louisiana Distaff                              3 YO & Up F & M LA-Bred  1 1/16 miles (T)

$60,000 Super Derby Prelude                         3 Y0                                        1 1/16 miles

 

Saturday, September 7                     Super Derby Day                  Noms close August 24

$60,000 Frank L. Brothers                              3 YO & Up                             1 1/16 miles (T)

$60,000 River Cities                                       3 YO & Up F&M                    1 1/16 miles (T)

$60,000 Happy Ticket                                    2 YO Fillies                             One Mile (T)

$60,000 Sunday Silence                                 2 YO                                       One Mile (T) $300,000 SUPER DERBY (G3)              3 YO                                       1 1/16 miles

$60,000 A. L. (Red) Erwin                             3 YO LA-Bred                        One Mile (T)

$60,000 Elge Rasberry                                   3 YO Fillies, LA-Bred            One Mile (T)

 

To see a complete list of the stakes schedule, including nominations, click here.

 

Harrah’s Louisiana Downs Special Events

145th Kentucky Derby                                                         Saturday, May 4

Watch and wager on the most anticipated race of the year from Harrah’s Louisiana Downs, all while sipping on a Mint Julep and donning your favorite derby! Post time for the race is 5:50pm (CST). And if you are looking for a great place to dine while watching all of the live racing action, Harrah’s Club has an All You Can Eat Buffet offering for just $29.99 per person ($39.99 on special race days). Harrah’s Club will be open on Saturdays May-September from 12pm until 6pm. Reservations are strongly encouraged and can be made by calling 318-752-6367.

 

Mother’s Day Diamond Dig                                                Saturday, May 11

Mothers can swipe their Caesars Rewards card to be entered in to the Diamond Dig drawing at the Racing Kiosk located across from Racing Publications. 10 Moms will be drawn for a chance to dig on the racetrack for a Diamond Ring valued at $2,500! One Mom will walk away with new bling and nine others will walk away with a Cubic Zirconia Ring. The Mother’s Day Diamond Dig is scheduled to take place between the 5th & 6th race of the day. First Post Time 12:55 pm.

 

Preakness Stakes Family Fun Day                                      Saturday, May 18     

Harrah’s Louisiana Downs is the place to be to watch and wager on the live racing action at Pimlico and Preakness 144 as the quest for the Triple Crown continues. Enjoy family fun on the apron including food trucks, inflatables, face painting and the thrill of live racing action. First Post Time 12:55pm Preakness Stakes Post Time: 5:20pm (CST).

 

Memorial Day Pig Races and Family Fun Day                 Monday, May 27

Don’t miss these wacky races as these high flying little porkers race to the finish line. The Pig Races will take place between post times for the Memorial Day Race Card. There will also be a Petting Zoo for children and a kid’s area with bounce houses and water slides. Face painting is available for purchase. Eat up as food trucks serve up great local bites. First Post Time 3:15 pm.

 

For more information on the upcoming racing season and special events, click here.

 

Daily Racing Promotions and Daily Offers

Harrah’s Louisiana Downs welcomes patrons four days a week for live racing and daily simulcast wagering on racetracks across the country. Promotions and food and beverage specials include:

 

Mobile Mondays | Enjoying the races? Check-in on the Caesars Rewards app from your smart phone to receive an entry into the weekly “Day at the Races” drawing. Winner will receive a dining experience for two to the Harrah’s Club (max value of $100).

 

2X Tuesdays | Present your Caesars Rewards card when making a wager and receive a 2X racing reward credit multiplier each Tuesday.

 

Watch & Wager Wednesdays | Enjoy hotdogs, popcorn, beer and racing programs for only $1.00!

 

$5.00 Free Bet | Saturdays, May 4 & 18 |Opt in and receive a ticket at the Racing Kiosks between 11am and 5pm. Saturdays, May 11 & 25| Redeem your Free Bet at the Mutuel Counter.

 

Super Saturdays| Race to more Rewards by presenting your Caesars Rewards card when making a wager and receive up to a 7X Racing Reward Credit Multiplier.

 

Saturday Pick 4 Family Day| Enjoy a box seat for 4 with food and drinks for only $16 on select Saturdays.

 

Bet & Earn| Check out Harrah’s new Bet & Earn offered through Racing by Caesars Rewards. Guests wagering using a Caesars Rewards card will now receive one Tier Credit and one Reward Credit on a three dollar bet.

 

About Harrah’s Louisiana Downs

Located near Shreveport in Bossier City, Louisiana, Louisiana Downs opened in 1974 and was purchased by Caesars Entertainment in December, 2002. 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.

 

 

HARRAH’S LOUISIANA DOWNS ANNOUNCES ITS 2019 THOROUGHBRED STAKES SCHEDULE

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Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby Set for Saturday, September 7

 

Bossier City, LA – The 2019 Thoroughbred racing season will get underway at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs on Saturday, May 4. The 84-day meet includes 14 stakes highlighted by two major events, Louisiana Cup Day on Saturday, August 3 and Super Derby Day on Saturday, September 7.

 

The marquee stakes of the meet is the Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby, which will be run at a distance of mile and one-sixteenth. Contested on the Frank’s Turf Course in 2017, the Super Derby reverted to a main track feature last year. Hall of Fame conditioner, Steve Asmussen won the 2018 Super Derby with Limation. The prestigious race, which had its first running in 1980, had a noted history as a graded stake run at nine furlongs on the dirt.  The nationally acclaimed racing event has a distinguished list of past champions, including four Kentucky Derby winners, four Preakness Stakes winners, five Belmont Stakes winners and seven Travers Stakes winners. Six previous Super Derby entrants have won the prestigious Breeders’ Cup Classic and three Super Derby winners, Tiznow, Sunday Silence and Alysheba have been voted the Eclipse Award as Horse of the Year, the industry’s highest award.

 

There are a few changes for 2019 Super Derby Day. The date has been moved up one week and will be contested on Saturday, September 7, instead of Labor Day weekend. Also, the $60,000 Unbridled Stakes, a turf feature, has been renamed as the Frank L. Brothers, to honor the Louisiana horsemen, who was a leading trainer in Louisiana before gaining national prominence in the sport.

 

“We want racing fans to see our Super Derby live and enjoy the many special events planned for our signature event at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs,” said Eric Halstrom, Louisiana Downs director of operations “We found that many patrons had out-of-town plans or holiday gatherings with family members on Labor Day weekend, so we shifted our date to the next weekend.”

 

Frank L. Brothers is Louisiana horseman, who won over 2,300 races and trained notable champions including Pulpit, Hansel, First Samurai and Arch. In 1991, the New Orleans native won two of the three U.S. Triple Crown races. He was inducted into the Fair Grounds Racing Hall of Fame that year, and in 2015, became the first Louisiana trainer to be inducted into the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame. Brothers won nine training titles at Louisiana Downs and officials felt that naming a race in his honor was well-deserved. He retired four years ago and lives in Kentucky with his wife, NBC racing reporter, Donna Barton Brothers.

“Frankie is a very skilled horseman and was highly respected by our fans and horseplayers across the country,” stated David Heitzmann, Harrah’s Louisiana Downs director of racing. “We are pleased to honor him and look forward to presenting an excellent Super Derby card.”

The annual Louisiana Cup  Day will feature six divisional stakes for horses bred in Louisiana, with four six-furlong main track stakes as well as the $50,000 Louisiana Cup Turf Classic and the $50,000 Louisiana Cup Distaff to be contested at a mile and one-sixteenth on the turf. The program also includes the $60,000 Prelude, a 1 1/16-mile race for 3-year-olds that serves as the local prep race for the Super Derby. Purses for the Louisiana Cup Day stakes will total $360,000.

 

Live racing will be conducted Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday with a 3:15 p.m. post time and Saturday’s card to commence at 12:55 p.m. For more information on the upcoming racing season, which runs through September 25, visit https://www.caesars.com/harrahs-louisiana-downs/racing.

 

Harrah’s Louisiana Downs 2019 Stakes Schedule

 

Saturday, August 3                           Louisiana Cup Day               Noms close July 20

$50,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile                    2 YO LA-Bred                        Six furlongs

$50,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile Fillies          2 YO Fillies LA-Bred             Six furlongs

$50,000 Louisiana Cup Filly & Mare Sprint  3 YO & Up F&M, LA-Bred  Six furlongs

$50,000 Louisiana Cup Sprint                        3 YO & Up LA-Bred              Six furlongs

$50,000 Louisiana Cup Turf Classic              3 YO & Up LA-Bred              1 1/16 miles (T)

$50,000 Louisiana Distaff                              3 YO & Up F & M LA-Bred  1 1/16 miles (T)

$60,000 Super Derby Prelude                         3 Y0                                        1 1/16 miles

 

Saturday, September 7                     Super Derby Day                  Noms close August 24

$60,000 Frank L. Brothers                           3 YO & Up                             1 1/16 miles (T)

$60,000 River Cities                                       3 YO & Up F&M                    1 1/16 miles (T)

$60,000 Happy Ticket                                    2 YO Fillies                             One Mile (T)

$60,000 Sunday Silence                                 2 YO                                       One Mile (T)

$300,000 SUPER DERBY (G3)                         3 YO                                       1 1/16 miles

$60,000 A. L. (Red) Erwin                             3 YO LA-Bred                        One Mile (T)

$60,000 Elge Rasberry                                   3 YO Fillies, LA-Bred            One Mile (T)

 

To see a complete list of the stakes schedule, including nominations, click here.

 

About Harrah’s Louisiana Downs

Located near Shreveport in Bossier City, Louisiana, Louisiana Downs opened in 1974 and was purchased by Caesars Entertainment in December, 2002. 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.

 

HARRAH’S LOUISIANA DOWNS OFFICIALS PLEASED WITH SUNDAY’S SUPER DERBY DAY

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Diego Saenz-2018
Diego Saenz. Hodges Photography

Bossier City, LA – Super Derby 39 at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs on Sunday, September 2 was successful on many levels.  The 13-race card featured seven stakes races, highlighted by the  Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby.

 

A field of nine competed with top horsemen Tom Amoss, Al Stall, Jr., Brad Cox and Hall of Fame conditioner Steve Asmussen sending in quality 3-year-olds for the 39th running of the prestigious championship.

 

It was Michael Lankford’s Limation who pulled off a stunning upset in Super Derby 39 at odds of 26-1 and despite a heavy downpour earlier in the afternoon, the richest race of the 2018 Thoroughbred season went off under sunny skies.

 

Officials reported a 12% increase in handle from the 2017 Super Derby card, which also showcased 13 races.
“We were very pleased with the quality of racing on Super Derby Day,” said David Heitzmann, Harrah’s Louisiana Downs director of racing. “The response from some of the nation’s most respected horsemen surpassed our expectations and despite the lone afternoon shower, we presented a very competitive race card.”

 

Promotions, special events and hospitality in the suite level added to the overall festive nature of Super Derby 39.

 

“It was a great day overall and would not have been possible without the efforts of the hard-working racing office staff and entire team at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs,” added Heitzmann.

 

First Graded Stakes for Jockey Diego Saenz

Horseplayers should never ignore jockey Diego Saenz on Super Derby Day. Last year, the 39-year-old rider won three of the seven stakes on the program. He set the bar even higher on Sunday, winning four of the seven features, and notching the first graded stakes of his career.

 

His stakes wins on Sunday’s card included Bermuda Star, owned by Brittlyn Stable, Inc.in the $60,000 River Cities; Yes Gorgeous in the $60,000 Elge Rasberry for owner and trainer Scott Gelner and Ice City Ghost and homebred by Dream Walkin Farms, Inc., who scored the upset in the $60,000 Sunday Silence. Ice City Ghost paid $42.20, but that was not the biggest longshot of the Super Derby card for Saenz!

That came in the eleventh race of the afternoon when Saenz rode Limation, for owner Michael Langford in the Super Derby. Considered an outsider by the betting public, Saenz had studied his form and had a pretty good idea what kind of a trip the son of Alternation would need. The Kentucky-bred colt was saddled by Asmussen’s longtime assistant Darren Fleming.

 

“For me, I just threw out his last race, and was hoping to give him a clear trip and keep his face clean,” explained Saenz. “Darren never seemed nervous and that gave me confidence.”

 

Saenz was content to stay off the early speed and had plenty of horse left when he rounded the far turn. He got clear at the top of the lane, crossing the wire in 1:43.91, by a margin of 5 ¾ lengths over the top betting choice, Lone Sailor.

 

“I had my horse where he needed to be and when we hit the quarter pole, he just drew off,” he said.

 

It was the first Super Derby and very first graded stakes for Saenz, and a pretty nice win payout of $56.40 for the many Louisiana horseplayers who have faith in the top Louisiana jockey.

 

“I won a $300,000 turf stakes with Heitai at Evangeline Downs, but this was my first grade 3,” he said. “I’ve been riding at Louisiana Downs since 2004; this was my very first Super Derby mount. It felt pretty good to win such an important race.”

 

Saenz had three mounts on Monday’s Labor Day racing card, scoring an allowance victory aboard Harlons Commision.  He took a minute to reflect upon his Super Derby 39 success.

 

“I am very grateful to Steve for giving me the opportunity to ride Limation,” said Saenz. “I also want to thank trainers Carl Deville, Scott Gelner, Victor Arceneaux and my agent, Louis Coco, who works very hard for me.”

 

Saenz, who was born in Chihuahua, Mexico, has been riding professionally since 2004 and has won 1,987 wins from 10,198 starts in his 15-year career.

 

He and his wife have three children and reside in Carencro, a suburb of Lafayette, Louisiana. Saenz will head to Delta Downs when their meet opens October 17. He has won four leading rider titles at the Vinton, Louisiana racetrack.

 

Update on Super Derby Winner Limation

Limation, winner of Sunday’s Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby at Louisiana Downs came out of the race in good order and has returned to trainer Steve Asmussen’s barn at Remington Park.

“I expect the Oklahoma Derby to be next for him,” the Hall of Fame conditioner told Mary Rampellini of the Daily Racing Form.

According to Rampellini, the Kentucky-bred son of Alternation will be pointed to the Grade 3, $400,000 Oklahoma Derby at Remington Park on September. 30. Mike Langford, owner of Limation  also campaigns 2017 Oklahoma Derby champion, Untrapped.

 

Weiner Dog Races Set for Saturday, September 8

Rain on Labor Day forced the cancelation of the popular Weiner Dog Races, but Harrah’s Louisiana Downs has rescheduled the entertaining event for Saturday, September 8.  Family-friendly activities will get underway at 11:00 amwith the first Wiener Dog race at noon. The championship is scheduled for 2:00 pm.

 

Live Thoroughbred action follows at its regular time of 3:15 pm.

 

 

About Harrah’s Louisiana Downs

Located near Shreveport in Bossier City, Louisiana, Louisiana Downs opened in 1974 and was purchased by Caesars Entertainment in December 2002. 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.

Limation Lights up the Toteboard in the Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs

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Limation with jockey Diego Saenz wins the 39th running of the Super Derby at Louisiana Downs. Hodges Photography / Ann Switalski

Jockey Diego Saenz Wins Four Stakes on the Card

Bossier City, LA There were two very pleasant surprises this afternoon at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs.  First was the super effort by Michael Lankford’s Limation powering to victory in Super Derby 39 at odds of 26-1. Secondly, an ominous weather forecast of thunderstorms throughout the entire afternoon, did not come to fruition. Although a downpour hit the Shreveport area just before 2:30 p.m., the richest race of the 2018 Thoroughbred season went off under sunny skies.

Hall of Fame conditioner Steve Asmussen sent in two quality 3-year-olds: Winchell Thoroughbreds LLC and Willis Horton Racing LLC’s Lionite and Limation, for owner Michael Langford.  It was Limation, who delivered the winning effort at a big price! Sired by Alternation, he had won two of his seven career starts and shipped to Louisiana Downs off an eighth-place finish in the Ellis Park Derby on August 12. 

But today, he was a different horse and jockey Diego Saenz made easy work of his eight rivals. Forwardly placed in the early stages of the race, he got clear at the top of the lane, crossing the wire in 1:43.91, by a margin of 5 ¾ lengths over Lone Sailor.

Asmussen, who had never won an edition of the Super Derby before, was reached on the phone after the race. He was very pleased with the effort by Limation.

“We knew he was a talented colt and were very disappointed in his loss at Ellis,” explained Asmussen. “Every move we made in in that race was wrong. “That’s why we brought him back so soon. Today, the race set up perfectly and I am pleased for Michael Langford.”

Asmussen’s longtime assistant Darren Fleming saddled the dark bay colt and felt Limation was primed for today’s test.

“He’s been doing really well, said Fleming.  “He’d been at Remington Park and when he came down here, he seemed to come alive and know what his job was. He got a great ride. Diego and I talked in the paddock; we were hoping for a pace to run at and that’s what happened.”

“It was the first time I had been on him, but that’s the pace we wanted,” said Saenz. “As far as his finish, it’s like when you push the pedal and you’ve got gas!”

Lone Sailor who finished eighth in this year’s Run for the Roses for owner Gayle Benson’s GMB Racing.  Trained by Tom Amoss, the bay colt has faced the nation’s top three-year-olds, including Triple Crown winner Justify in both the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes. Lone Sailor ran second by a nose in the Grade 3, Ohio Derby and most recently finished a respectable third in the Grade 1, Haskell Invitational at Monmouth Park. Jockey James Graham had the mount and closed gamely as the runner-up. Amoss was hoping to win his first Super Derby, but was gracious in praise for the winner.

“He broke sharp and we had a very good trip,” said Amoss. “My fear is that we would not get the pace set-up we needed. We just couldn’t catch the winner, who is a very good horse.”

High North ran third under Florent Geroux for trainer Brad Cox, who won last year’s Super Derby with Mr. Misunderstood.  Lionite completed the superfecta with David Cabrera up, followed by G’s Turn, Bode’s Maker, McFeely, Autumn Warrior and the early pacesetter, Charlie’s Schiller.

Dismissed by the betting public, Limation rewarded his backers with a win payout of $54.80. With the winner’s share of $180,000, he boosted his career bankroll to $272,958 with three wins from eight starts.

Taylor’s Spirit Conquers Turf in the $60,000 Happy Ticket

The stakes action got underway in the second race of the card, with a field of six fillies and mares in the 33rd running of the $60,000 Happy Ticket.  

Norman Stables, LLC’s Taylor’s Spirit won her first two career races at Prairie Meadows, and was seeking her second stakes win while making her turf debut for trainer Scott Gelner.  She was forwardly placed in the early stages under jockey Florent Geroux, easily drawing clear by a margin of 3 ¼ lengths. 

“Scott had her well prepared and even though this was her first time on the turf, at the quarter pole it was all over,” he said. 

Gelner credited his association with the Norman family and felt confident that she would handle the turf.

“She’s a nice filly,” said Gelner. “She worked five-eighths of a mile in company the other day and was very relaxed.”

Flatoutandfoxy ran second under Kerwin Clark with Navy Regatta completing the trifecta.  Miss Perdito Key ran fourth, followed by Given Grace.  Noble Love ran yesterday at Kentucky Downs and was scratched from the Happy Ticket.

Taylor’s Spirit ($2.20) completed the mile feature over a firm turf course in 1:37.91. Gelner said his filly will make her next start in Kentucky.

Bermuda Star Wins Her Second Stake of the Meet,  the $60,000 River Cities

It was another rousing finish by Bermuda Star, owned by Brittlyn Stable, Inc.to take the 33rd running of the $60,000 River Cities.

The daughter of Star Guitar won the $60,000 Louisiana Cup Distaff, run here on August 4. That race was run over a firm turf course, but due to a major downpour, the turf condition was changed to yielding.  Rider Diego Saenz has the return call for trainer Victor Arceneaux, dueling with  Hachi (CHI) and winning in a final time of 1:44.35. 

“I was really concerned with the condition of the turf course,” said Arceneaux. “I told Diego if she was not comfortable to pull her up, but all of the sudden, she went to running and the rest was history. I want to thank Wayne Simpson and Tom Curtis for breeding this horse.”

Hachi (CHI), a 5-year-old stakes-placed mare ran second under jockey Florent Geroux as the 7-5 morning-line choice.  Brad Cox trains the Chilean import for breeder and owner Don Alberto Stable.  Holiday’s Angel with Eguard Tejera up, ran third. Completing the superfecta was Calumet Farms’ Susie Bee.

This was the sixth career win for Bermuda Star ($8.40), who was sent off as the second choice in the wagering.

Ice City Ghost Springs the Upset in the $60,000 Sunday Silence 

The 15th running of the $60,000 Sunday Silence produced the first upset of the afternoon with Ice City Ghost breaking his maiden and winning the first stakes of his career. 

Bred and owned by Dream Walkin Farms, Inc., the gelded son of Ice Box was making just his second start and Diego Saenz, who won the Sunday Silence last year with Budro Talking, kept his mount on the lead, and finished in 1:37.63, a margin of 2 ¼ lengths ahead of Cabo’s Rumor.

Ice City Ghost ran fourth on August 10 at Evangeline Downs and trainer Carl Deville, Jr. felt his charge would improve in his next outing.

“The colt had a little trouble in his first race, but he’s been doing really well,” said Deville. “I was looking at the race and today he proved he could run.”

Cabo’s Rumor, winner of the $60,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile here on August 4, finished second for Northpointe Thoroughbreds. The son of Amanecer de Oro was making his first start on turf for trainer Steven Duke. Big Bobby Brown closed for third and American Gem, at 28-1, completed the superfecta.

Ice City Ghost rewarded his supporters with a win payout of $42.20, and earned $36,000 for the victory.  Deville was unsure of his next start.

Big Changes Prevails in the $60,000 Unbridled 

Trainer Brad Cox sent Big Changes to Louisiana Downs last year and today he returned a winner in the 40th running of the $60,000 Unbridled.  The Florida-bred son of Shipman owned by Steve Landers Racing, LLC was in pursuit of his fourth consecutive stakes race in the mile and one-sixteenth turf feature. He won the $50,000 John Henry at Evangeline Downs and followed that with a three-length victory in the West Virginia House of Delegates Speaker’s Cup Stakes at Mountaineer Park on August 4. The chestnut gelding was the favorite in last year’s Unbridled, running second to Net Gain, 

But with a confident rider by jockey Florent Geroux, he prevailed this year as the strong favorite in the 10- horse field.

“He showed a lot of grit today,” said assistant trainer Ricky Giannini.  “Florent had to move a little early to shake off the competition. He was challenged all the way down the backside, but got clear and fought on down the lane,”

Mocito Rojo under Filemon Rodriguez ran second followed by Potomac River and Magic Vow. 

This was the fourth win in a row for Big Changes ($2.80) who increased his career earnings to $381,550 with today’s score.

Yes Gorgeous Tops Louisiana-Bred Fillies in the $60,000 Elge Rasberry

The 24th running of the $60,000 Elge Rasberry drew a field of ten Louisiana-bred 3-year-old fillies. The heavy rainfall, which had been expected in Sunday’s forecast, hit as the field headed into the starting gate. Fortunately, it did not deter Yes Gorgeous, who handled the adverse conditions with little difficulty.

Owned and trained by Scott Gelner, the filly by Mass Media has been a model of consistency. Other than her first two career efforts, she has never missed a check.  She was unpressured under jockey Diego Saenz, covering the first quarter in :24.17 and the half-mile in :48.94 and finishing in 1:37.54.

“She is just a blessing from God for me and my family,” stated Gelner. “She has handled everything we have ever asked: turf, dirt, even running against the boys. I never have to tell Diego what to do; he always knows, and we couldn’t be more proud of her.”

Scrivener Stables’ Savvy Shipman, ran second by two lengths for trainer Mike Maker and rider Colby Hernandez. Bionic Butterfly, trained by Steve Flint, who has been a solid allowance level performer at Evangeline Downs for Whispering Oaks Farm, LLC, was third under Florent Geroux with Fleet Halo completing the superfecta.

Yes Gorgeous paid $6.40 for the victory; her fourth in 17 starts.  Her career bankroll now stands at $208,455. Gelner reported that they will give her a break and she is slated to return on Louisiana Champions Day at Fair Grounds.

Battle At Sea Impressive in the $60,000 A. L. (Red) Erwin

Louisiana-bred 3-year-old colts and geldings competed in the $60,000 A. L. (Red) Erwin. The feature was moved to the main track after heavy rainfall hit Bossier City at 2:25 pm this afternoon.

Trainer Mike Maker sent in Battle At Sea a son of Into Mischief for Three Diamonds Farm. This was the fifth stakes of the year for the bay colt, who made his last start in the Ellis Park Derby on August 12.

Assistant Miguel Castellanos gave jockey Colby Hernandez a leg up, and he prevailed as the heavy favorite, covering a mile and 70 yards on the sloppy track in 1:44.07

“First off, I want to thank Mike and the owners for giving me the opportunity to ride this horse,” said Hernandez. “He broke sharp and is a pretty tough horse. I didn’t want to get in his way. I called on him at the quarter-pole and he went on with it.”

Longshot Big Boy Dave Rex ran second under Juan Larrosa, followed by Greeley Went West and General Tone.

Battle At Sea returned $3.20 for the win. This was the third career win for the Louisiana-bred  colt, and his second on an off track.

FLORENT GEROUX MAKES HIS FIRST APPEARANCE AT HARRAH’S LOUISIANA DOWNS ON SUNDAY’S SUPER DERBY CARD

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Nation’s Third Highest Ranked Jockey to Ride Six on Sunday, September 2

Bossier City, LA – In addition to the quality field of 3-year-olds set to compete Super Derby 39 on Sunday at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs, fans will also have the opportunity to see one of the eminent riders in North America. Florent Geroux will make his Louisiana Downs debut on Sunday with six mounts on the Super Derby card. Born in Normandy, France, Geroux was a top apprentice in France in 2005 and has steadily ascended to the highest echelon since relocating to the United States a decade ago.  He is currently ranked third in earnings in the North American Equibasestandings behind the prolific brothers, Jose and Irad Ortiz.

In Sunday’s Grade 3, $300,000  Super Derby, Geroux will ride High North for owners Shortleaf Stables, Inc. and trainer Brad Cox. Bred in Kentucky, the colt by Midnight Lute won the $250,000 Iowa Derby on July 5, and was third in the Grade 3, $500,000 West Virginia Derby on August 4.

“I’ve ridden him several times; he’s a very nice horse,” said Geroux. “Maybe the only disappointing race was the Peter Pan (at Belmont last May). It might have been a little long for him, but he ran big in the Iowa Derby.”

In addition to High North, Geroux will also pilot Hachi in the $60,000 River Cities and Big Changes in the $60,000 Unbridled for Cox. He also has two mounts for trainer Scott Gelner: Taylor’s Spirit in the $60,000 Happy Ticket and Future Abundance in the $60,000 Sunday Silence and will ride Bionic Butterfly for conditioner Steve Flint in the $60,000 Elge Rasberry.

While Sunday marks his first appearance at Louisiana Downs, there is a compelling Super Derby connection this weekend for Geroux. On Saturday, he will ride 2017 Super Derby champion Mr. Misunderstood in the $750,000 Tourist Mile at Kentucky Downs. The noted turf specialist will be seeking his seventh stakes win since his victory here one year ago for trainer Brad Cox and his owner, Staton Flurry.

“For sure the Super Derby was great for Mr. Misunderstood,” said Geroux. “He’s been an amazing horse for Brad and Staton.”

Geroux won the 2016 and 2017 leading rider titles at Fair Grounds, and completed this year’s meet as the top money-earning jockey at the New Orleans racetrack.

Always popular with horseplayers, Geroux jetted to Sam Houston Race Park last January, the morning after winning the $16 Million Pegasus World Cup at Gulfstream Park aboard Gun Runner. Most riders might have preferred to remain in the jocks room and catch a quick nap, but Geroux graciously did interviews and signed autographs for racing fans.

“You have to support the fans,” he said. “They are very important to our sport and I always try to meet them when I can.”

 

 

Seven Stakes on Sunday’s Program

The 39th running of the Super Derby is set as the eleventh race of the card, with an approximate post time of 5:05 pm.  The complete field, in post position order, with riders, and odds:

 

Autumn Warrior,  Colby Hernandez; 6-1

Charlie’s Schiller, Aubrie Green; 20-1

Lone Sailor, James Graham; 7-5

McFeely, Ashley Broussard; 20-1

Bode’s Maker, Joel Dominguez; 30-1

G’s Turn,  Thomas Pompell; 20-1

Limation, Diego Saenz; 12-1

High North, Florent Geroux; 5-2

Lionite, David Cabrera; 9-2

 

In addition to the Super Derby, six additional stakes will be contested on Sunday’s program.

 

$60,000 Unbridled                                          3 YO & Up                             1 1/16 miles (T)

$60,000 River Cities                                       3 YO & Up F&M                    1 1/16 miles (T)

$60,000 Happy Ticket                                    2 YO Fillies                             One Mile (T)

$60,000 Sunday Silence                                 2 YO                                       One Mile (T)

$60,000 A. L. (Red) Erwin                             3 YO LA-Bred                        One Mile (T)

$60,000 Elge Rasberry                                   3 YO Fillies, LA-Bred            One Mile (T)

 

Super Derby Festivities Set for Sunday, September 2

The marquee day of the 2018 Louisiana Downs Thoroughbred meet will get underway at a special post time of 12:00 pm (Central)  Several promotions and special events are planned so that both racing fans and families will have an enjoyable Labor Day Sunday.

 

At 10:30 am, fans are invited to participate in a Jockey Meet and Greet and Autograph Signing in the Harrah’s Louisiana Downs main entrance area. A photo of the riders will be available for $5.00 with the proceeds to benefit the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund (PDJF).

 

Louisiana Downs track announcer John McGary and regional racing publicist Martha Claussen will team up for a pre-race handicapping preview at 11:00 am in the Inside Rail, located on the first floor of the grandstand. They will offer detailed analysis of the Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby as well as their selections for each of the races on the Super Derby card.

 

Also beginning at 11:00 am, a Children’s Area will open on the Racing Apron.  Face Painting is available for an additional charge. Children can join in the fun with the Super Derby Stilt Walkers and Hula Hoop Stars! Food Trucksfrom across the region will be serving up great local bites for purchase.

 

Beginning at noon and continuing through the last race, fans can swipe their Total Rewards card at the racing kiosks to receive their Super Derby 39 $5 Free Bet that can be redeemed on Saturday, September 8, 2018.

 

Also at 12:00 pm, registration begins for the Super Derby Ladies Hat Contest. Hats will be judged in three categories: Spirit of Louisiana, Classic and Most Original. The winners will receive $100 cash.

 

The Food Truck Face-Off  will take place after the 3rd race. Competitors will have five minutes to scarf down some of the yummiest foods available for purchase on the Racing Apron. Seven popular local celebrities and three participants from the crowd will compete to win, not only bragging rights, but $250 in cash.

 

After the 6th Race Harrah’s Louisiana Downs Super Derby 39 Opening Ceremony will include a Proclamation by Bossier City Mayor Lorenz Walker, posting of the colors by the Bossier Sheriff’s Young Marines and The National Anthem performed by American Idol cast member, Garrett Jacobs.

 

 

About Harrah’s Louisiana Downs

Located near Shreveport in Bossier City, Louisiana, Louisiana Downs opened in 1974 and was purchased by Caesars Entertainment in December, 2002. 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.