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Category: Super Derby
SIX COMPETITIVE UNDERCARD STAKES TO BE CONTESTED ON SUPER DERBY DAY AT HARRAH’S LOUISIANA DOWNS
The Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby Anchors the Sunday, September 2nd Card
Bossier City, LA – While the Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby is the lone graded stake Sunday, September 2 at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs, the card will also feature six compelling undercard turf features on its 13-race program. The marquee day of the 2018 Louisiana Downs Thoroughbred meet will get underway at a special post time of 12:00 pm (Central).
As announced Monday, August 27, Lone Sailor who finished eighth in this year’s Run for the Roses for owner Gayle Benson’s GMB Racing, leads a field of nine in the Super Derby. 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. Lone Sailor has competed in eight graded stakes to date and is the high earner in the Super Derby field with $579,237 banked in twelve starts. Jockey James Graham has the mount aboard the 7-5 morning-line choice.
His top rivals include Autumn Warrior, who earned his berth into the Super Derby as the winner of the $60,000 Super Derby Prelude here on August 4 for trainer Al Stall, Jr; Iowa Derby winner High North from the barn of Brad Cox and Lionite, who will ship in for Hall of Fame conditioner Steve Asmussen.
The 39th running of the Super Derby will run as the eleventh race of the afternoon, with an approximate post time of 5:02 pm (Central).
Taylor’s Spirit Gets Top Billing in the $60,000 Happy Ticket
The first feature of the day, the 33rd running of the $60,000 Happy Ticket, drew a field of seven fillies at a mile on the Franks Turf Course. Norman Stables, LLC’s Taylor’s Spirit will try to remain undefeated while making her turf debut for trainer Scott Gelner. The filly by Algorithms broke her maiden at first asking on July 8 at Prairie Meadows, returning 12 days later to win the $65,000 Prairie Gold Lassie Stakes. In addition to the surface switch, this will be her first time routing, but Gelner has confidence in his filly.
“She’s a good mover, so I think she will handle the distance,” said Gelner. “In her stakes win at Prairie Meadows, she was headed from the get go, but dug in for the win.”
Jockey Florent Geroux has the call and faces six rivals including Noble Love owned by Love Partnership Interests, LP. The daughter of Noble Mission (GB) ships in off a maiden special weight turf victory at Ellis Park for trainer Bret Calhoun. Three fillies with recent turf wins include Brittlyn Stable, Inc.’s Flatoutandfoxy, Navy Regatta owned by Patricia and Kevin Fontenot and Miss Perdito Key, who scored here on July 24 for her owners, Fletcher B. Clement and Michael Alexander, Jr.
The Happy Ticket will run as the second race on the Super Derby program.
Cabo’s Rumor Makes His Turf Debut in the $60,000 Sunday Silence
The fourth race of the afternoon is the $60,000 Sunday Silence with eight juveniles competing at one mile on the Franks Turf Course. This is the 15th edition of the race named in honor of the prolific champion who won the 1989 Super Derby, Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes.
It will mark the turf debut for several of the colts and geldings in the field, including Cabo’s Rumor, winner of the $60,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile here on August 4. Owned by Northpointe Thoroughbreds, the son of Amanecer de Oro closed gamely down the stretch under top Louisiana Downs jockey Emanuel Nieves for his first stakes score. The bay colt will make his first start on turf, but trainer Steven Duke, thinks he will handle the surface switch.
“He’s been training very well and we gave him a work on the turf (on August 25),” said Duke. “Both his mom and dad won on the grass. This stakes is a mile, but he’s pretty fit and we’ve always believed he could go longer.”
Cabo’s Rumor will face several 2-year-olds who recently broke their maiden. Future Abundance, a son of Overanalyze won at first asking on August 11 at Prairie Meadows for owner Greg Brous. The Iowa-bred gelding is trained by Gelner and will be ridden by Geroux. Golden Tooth Ranch LP’s Fredonian scored a three-length victory in his debut here on August 13. Sired by The Factor, he is trained by Jason Meaux, who will give a leg up to Eguard Tejera.Breaking from the far outside is Big Bobby Brown, a son of Shanghai Bobby, who scored by two lengths under Aubrie Green at Louisiana Downs on August 1 for owners Robert Joseph and Dana Salome.
Overflow Field of Fillies and Mares Entered in the $60,000 River Cities
A full field of fillies and mares will compete in the 33rd running of the $60,000 River Cities at the distance of a mile and one-sixteenth on the turf.
Hachi (CHI), a 5-year-old stakes-placed mare will make her Louisiana Downs debut under jockey Florent Geroux as the 7-5 morning-line choice. Brad Cox trains the Chilean import for breeder and owner Don Alberto Stable. Cox won last year’s edition of the race with Quinta Verde (IRE), who began her career in Europe and picked up her first stakes in the River Cities.
Trainer Mike Maker sends in Calumet Farms’ Susie Bee, a 6-year-old mare by noted turf sire, English Channel. She has won seven turf races and is the high earner in the field with $382,423. Colby Hernandez will ride the Kentucky-bred, who notched her most recent black-type win on April 28 in the $75,000 Powder Break Stakes at Gulfstream Park.
“I hope she likes the Louisiana Downs turf as much as the Gulfstream Park turf course,” said Maker. “She is a game mare and always gives it her all.”
The field also includes the winner and runner-up from the $60,000 Louisiana Cup Distaff, run here on August 4. Bermuda Star, owned by Brittlyn Stable, Inc., sat off a swift early pace before closing gamely under rider Diego Saenz for her third career turf victory. The daughter of Star Guitar is trained by Victor Arceneaux and will break from the rail. Eskenformore, trained by James Hodges, ran second for owner Sugarland Thoroughbreds LLC. Jockey Gerardo Mora will ride the 5-year-old mare by Eskendereya, who will be making her 11th lifetime start.
The River Cities will run as the ninth race of the afternoon with an estimated post time of 3:59 pm.
Big Changes Leads the Field in the $60,000 Unbridled
Trainer Brad Cox sends Big Changes in the 40th running of the $60,000 Unbridled. The Florida-bred son of Shipman owned by Steve Landers Racing,LLC is 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, Big Changes will be ridden by jockey Florent Geroux, as the even-money choice on the morning line.
Silent Citizen, a 3-year-old colt sire by Hat Trick (JPN), will make his Louisiana Downs debut for trainer Efren Loza, Jr. Owned by W. Mike Anderson, the dark bay colt has won four of his seven career efforts, including the $50,000 Stanton Stakes on June 13 at Delaware Park.
Mocito Rojo, who ran fourth to Big Changes in the John Henry Stakes on July 7, is trained by Shane Wilson. The 4-year-old colt owned by Wayne T. Davis, will be ridden by Filemon Rodriguez. Louisiana-bred Magic Vow returns to Louisiana Downs for owner Brittlyn Stable, Inc. and conditioner Allen Landry. The 4-year-old son of Private Vow ran second in the $60,000 Louisiana Cup Turf Classic here on August 4. Kerwin Clark has the return call.
Ten Louisiana-Bred Fillies Take to the Turf 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. Yes Gorgeous, owned and trained by Scott Gelner, has been installed as the 5-2 choice in the one-mile turf feature.
The filly by Mass Media will be making her 17th start, and other than her first two career efforts, has never missed a check. This will be her first race at Louisiana Downs.
“She is a blessing from God for me and my family,” stated Gelner. “Granted, she has been a bridesmaid nine times, but she always gives 100% every time she runs. She is a very sweet filly and (jockey) Diego (Saenz) knows her well.”
Scrivener Stables’ Savvy Shipman, began her career at Fair Grounds and has made four starts at Indiana Grand this year. Trainer Mike Maker conditions the daughter of Midshipman, who will be ridden by Colby Hernandez. Another capable filly is Bionic Butterfly, trained by Steve Flint, who has been a solid allowance level performer at Evangeline Downs for Whispering Oaks Farm, LLC. Florent Geroux will ride the daughter of Custom for Carlos in the Elge Rasberry.
Drewcitable Leads the Field in the $60,000 A. L. (Red) Erwin
Louisiana-bred 3-year-old colts and geldings will take to the Franks Turf Course in the $60,000 A. L. (Red) Erwin. Norman Stable LLC’s Drewcitable will be seeking his fourth win in five starts for trainer Lonnie Briley. The son of Artie Schiller will break from post position eight as the 5-2 morning line favorite.
“He’s coming into this well, but it’s been six weeks since his last race,” said Briley. “We entered him in a one-mile race at Evangeline that did not fill. This race came up pretty tough, but I like our chances.”
Regular rider Diego Saenz has the call and Briley also commended his owner, Robbie Norman.
“Robby is a super good guy,” added Briley. “It’s a pleasure to train for him!”
Trainer Mike Maker sends in Battle At Sea, a son of Into Mischief for Three Diamonds Farm. This will be the fifth stakes of the year for the bay colt, who will be ridden by Colby Hernandez.
2017 Sunday Silence winner Budro Talking is also entered for owner Jerry Durant and trainer Mike Neatherlin. The gelded son of Tale of Ekati will be ridden by Chris Rosier.
Jockey Autograph Signing to Benefit PDJF Set for Sunday, September 2
As part of Sunday’s Super Derby festivities, fans are invited to participate in a Jockey Meet and Greet and Autograph Signing in the Harrah’s Louisiana Downs main entrance area at 10:30 am. A photo of the riders will be available for $5.00 with the proceeds to benefit the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund (PDJF).
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.
GMB RACING’S LONE SAILOR LEADS A FIELD OF NINE IN THE GRADE 3, $300,000 SUPER DERBY AT HARRAH’S LOUISIANA DOWNS
Seven Stakes Races Will be Contested on the Super Derby Program Sunday, September 2 at a Special Post Time of 12:00 pm
Bossier City, LA – A quality field of 3-year-olds will run in Super Derby 39 at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs, on 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).
Leading the field is Lone Sailor who finished eighth in this year’s Run for the Roses for owner Gayle Benson’s GMB Racing. The New Orleans-based group purchased the colt by Majestic Warrior out of the Mt. Greeley mare Ambitious as a yearling for $120,000. He broke his maiden at Saratoga on September 3, 2017 and advanced directly into stakes company. 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. Lone Sailor has competed in eight graded stakes to date and is the high earner in the Super Derby field with $579,237 banked in twelve starts. Jockey James Graham has the mount and will break from post position three.
“We feel that this is a real opportunity for Lone Sailor to take a step forward,” said Amoss in a telephone interview today. “He’s been working well in the mornings and the Super Derby is a very important race. Once we began considering sending him to Louisiana Downs, it was an easy sell.”
This would be the first Super Derby win for Amoss, who ran Mo Tom in the 2016 edition of the race.
“I want to catch up with Al (Stall), the “Cajun Bob Baffert,” quipped Amoss. “But, seriously, running in this race is very important to me and my wife. Both our children were born in Shreveport, and we are looking forward to being there on Sunday.”
Trainer Al Stall Jr has a very talented 3-year-old in Autumn Warrior, who earned his berth into the Super Derby as the winner of the $60,000 Super Derby Prelude here on August 4. Bred and owned by Robert Guidry’s Autumn Hill Farms Racing Stable Inc., the son of Orb, is undefeated in three starts, including his first route race for Stall. Overcoming a troubled trip in the Prelude, he advanced from seventh to win in a thrilling photo finish under rider Colby Hernandez. The dark bay colt will break from the rail under Hernandez.
Stall has a longtime association with Guidry, who gave him his first horse in 1991, a filly by Mt. Livermore named Lady Cacharel.
One of the most successful Louisiana conditioners, Stall will be seeking his fourth victory in the Super Derby. He won the prestigious race in 2008 with My Pal Charlie and again two years later with Apart. Departing was the third winner for the New Orleans native in 2013.
Trainer Brad Cox, who won the 2017 Super Derby, which was contested on the Franks Turf Course, with Flurry Racing Stable’s Mr. Misunderstood, has nominated High North, for owners Shortleaf Stables, Inc. 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. Jockey Florent Geroux, who rode High North to victory at Prairie Meadows, will make the trip to Bossier City on Sunday.
Winchell Thoroughbreds LLC and Willis Horton Racing LLC’s Lionite will make the trip to Louisiana Downs for Hall of Fame conditioner Steve Asmussen. This will be the tenth career start for the son of Quality Road, who broke his maiden in April at Oaklawn Park and won his first stakes on June 8 at Prairie Meadows. He finished third in the Iowa Derby and made his most recent start in the Grade 3,West Virginia Derby, where he ran fourth. Asmussen has given the mount to David Cabera, who won his 800th career race Saturday night at Remington Park. Asmussen is also sending in Limation, for owner Michael Langford. Sired by Alternation, he has won two of his seven career starts and exits a start in the Ellis Park Derby on August 12. Diego Saenz will ride for Asmussen.
Other Prelude entrants, G’s Turn owned by Tom Galvin of Dallas, Texas will run for trainer Patricia West as well as Oakwood Stable Inc’s McFeely. The colt by Scat Daddy ran fourth in the Prelude for conditioner John Ney. Owner Danny Keene hopes for a better trip for his colt, Bode’s Maker, the fifth-place runner in the Prelude. The Kentucky-bred son of Bodemeister is trained by Allen Milligan and Louisiana Downs-based rider Joel Dominguez retains the mount.
“If he would have a had a clean trip, the outcome would have been different,” said Keene. “He was boxed in and when he finally got clear, it was too late. He’s a good colt and a strong closer.”
Keene won the 2016 Super Derby with Texas Chrome and has fond memories of the victory.
“Winning the Super Derby meant a great deal,” acknowledged Keene. “He was third in the wagering that day and stepped up big time. There are some good horses in this year’s field, but in racing, you never know!”
The field also includes Charlie’s Schiller, a son of Artie Schiller who will make his stakes debut for owners Daren Ives and James Adametz. He is trained by Tommy Ives who will give a leg up to Aubrie Green.
The Super Derby, which had its first running in 1980, 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.
“The Super Derby will always be the most significant race run at Louisiana Downs,” said David Heitzmann, Louisiana Downs Director of Racing. “Its return to the main track and Grade 3 status attracted an impressive field for Super Derby 39. With excellent fields in each of our seven stakes, we look forward to presenting an outstanding card for our local fans and horseplayers across the country on Sunday.”
Six Undercard Stakes Set for Super Derby Day
In addition to the Super Derby, six additional stakes will be contested on Sunday’s program. A press release on the entrants for the following features will be sent tomorrow:
$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)
Live Racing Schedule This Week at Louisiana Downs
Louisiana Downs will run live programs on Monday, August 27, Tuesday, August 28 and Saturday, September 1 at 3:15 pm (Central). There will be no live racing this Wednesday, due to the special Super Derby program carded for Sunday, September 2.
Super Derby Festivities Set for Sunday, September 2
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 Trucks from 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.
NOMINATIONS CLOSED FOR THE GRADE 3, $300,000 SUPER DERBY AND SIX UNDERCARD STAKES AT HARRAH’S LOUISIANA DOWNS
Special Post Time of 12:00 pm Set for Sunday, September 2
Bossier City, LA – Nominations have closed for Super Derby Day at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs, which will take place on 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).
The Super Derby program will feature seven stakes, highlighted by the Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby, for 3-year-olds going a mile and one-sixteenth on the main track. The Super Derby closed with 30 nominations, and included four Thoroughbreds who had competed in the Grade 1, $2 million Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs.
Trainer Tom Amoss has nominated Lone Sailor, who finished eighth in this year’s Run for the Roses for owner G M B Racing. The colt by Majestic Warrior faced Triple Crown winner Justify again in the 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.
John Oxley’s Flameaway, who also ran in the Kentucky Derby would certainly receive considerable attention from horseplayers should trainer Mark Casse decide to send him to Louisiana Downs. The colt by Scat Daddy has earned over $834,000 in his 12 career efforts. He ran second in the Grade 2, $600,000 Jim Dandy at Saratoga in his most recent start.
Trainer Dale Romans has nominated eight runners for the Super Derby, including two Kentucky Derby participants: Promises Fulfilled and Free Drop Billy. Promises Fulfilled, a son of Shackleford owned by Robert J. Baron, triumphed in the Grade 2, Fountain of Youth at Gulfstream Park and was a three-length winner in the Grade 3, Amsterdam on July 28 at Saratoga.
Albaugh Family Stables, LLC’s Free Drop Billy has competed in nine graded stakes to date. Sired by Union Rags, the chestnut colt made his last start in the Grade 1, Belmont Stakes in June.
Trainer Brad Cox, who won the 2017 Super Derby, which was contested on the Franks Turf Course, with Flurry Racing Stable’s Mr. Misunderstood, has nominated High North, for owners Shortleaf Stables, Inc. 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. Mr. Misunderstood, who won the Prelude and Super Derby last year, has racked up seven stakes wins for Cox and owner Staton Flurry since last August at Louisiana Downs. One of the country’s most accomplished turf specialists, the 4-year-old son of Archarcharch will make his next start on September 1 in the $750,000 Tourist Mile at Kentucky Downs.
Indiana Derby champion Axelrod owned by Slam Dunk Racing, is another notable nominee. The victory at Indiana Grand on July 14 was the first Grade 3 for the Florida-bred son of Warrior’s Reward.
Another talented 3-year-old who earned his berth into the Super Derby on August 4 is Autumn Warrior, winner of the $60,000 Super Derby Prelude at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs. Bred and owned by Robert Guidry’s Autumn Hill Farms Racing Stable Inc., the son of Orb, is undefeated in three starts, including his first route race for trainer Al Stall Jr. Overcoming a troubled trip in the Prelude, he advanced from seventh to win in a thrilling photo finish under rider Colby Hernandez. The dark bay colt has remained at Louisiana Downs under the watchful eye of Stall’s assistant, Pam Fitzgerald.
“He’s doing well,” she reported. “He had a real easy breeze last Saturday and will work again this Saturday. Although he can be a handful, we get along well. We were proud of his effort in the Prelude; he handled the difficult trip very well and couldn’t have gotten more experience from his first time stretching out.”
Other Prelude top four finishers, G’s Turn owned by Tom Galvin of Dallas, Texas is nominated and will likely enter, according to trainer Patricia West.. Amoss also trains Zanesville, a son of Tiznow, who ran third in the Prelude for Rosemont Farm LLC. Also, Oakwood Stable Inc’s McFeely, who completed the superfecta in the Prelude, is on target for the Super Derby The colt by Scat Daddy is conditioned by John Ney.
The Super Derby, which had its first running in 1980 has a rich history. The illustrious list of past champions includes 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.
The draw for Super Derby Day will take place on Monday, August 27. The featured stakes are:
$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)
$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)
Louisiana Downs Trainer and Jockey Standings
Through August 20, Karl Broberg is the leading trainer with 19 wins. Al Stall, Jr, is next with 17 victories. Last year’s leading conditioner Joey Foster has saddled 15 winners and Jorge Lara, Danny Pish and Joe O. Duhon are tied with 14 wins each.
Emanuel Nieves continues to lead his fellow riders with 62 wins, and is hoping to clinch his first leading rider title when their meet wraps on September 27. Joel Dominguez is in second-place in the standings with 52 wins and Gerardo Mora, last year’s top jockey, is third with 49 victories. Richard Eramia follows with 38 trips to the winner’s circle, but has departed to ride at Remington Park. Hector Del-Cid rounds out the top five riders with 35 wins.
End Zone Athletics, Inc. tops the owner standings with 12 wins. Dream Walkin Farms, Inc. follows closely with 11 first-place finishes. Patti Turner has nine wins and Indian Creek Thoroughbred Farms, LLC has won eight races in the 2018 Thoroughbred meet.
Super Derby Handicapping Seminar Set for Sunday, September 2
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.
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.
JOCKEY EMANUEL NIEVES SOARING TO NEW HEIGHTS AT HARRAH’S LOUISIANA DOWNS
Native of Puerto Rico in Pursuit of His First Leading Rider Title
Bossier City, LA – Emanuel Nieves is a young rider with a tremendous work ethic coupled with plenty of skill in the saddle. He is 25-years-old, but many people mistake him for a teenager. However, he is quietly earning the respect of many horsemen and horseplayers in Louisiana with his versatile riding style and well-timed finishes.
Born in Caguas, Puerto Rico, a municipality south of San Juan, Nieves had an opportunity to attend Puerto Rico’s Escuela Vocational Hipica, the famed jockey school with a noted list of graduates that have reached the top ranks in North America.
“It is a two-year program and I was there at the same time as Jose Ortiz,” said Nieves. “His brother Irad was there the year before and I got to know them both. They are really good people.”
In 2012, Nieves made his United States debut at Finger Lakes in New York. He rode his first winner on December 5, guiding Wachiwi to victory in a $9,000 claiming race. Louisiana-based agent Angel Cordero called him and offered to take his book at Delta Downs, so he headed south and has ridden at each of the four Louisiana racetracks in the past six years.
Last year, Nieves got the call from respected former rider and jockey agent Ronald Ardoin encouraging him to come to Louisiana Downs.
“I was doing well at Evangeline Downs, and still ride there on my days off,” said Nieves. “Ronald has such good relationships with horsemen, I felt it would be a good move.”
Last year, Nieves won 47 races, finishing sixth in the standings. He is the current leading jockey with 56 wins, seven more than last year’s top rider, Gerardo Mora.
Nieves has not had a slew of stakes wins at Louisiana Downs, but scored with Sunny Oak last year in the $50,000 Louisiana Cup Filly and Mare Sprint.
Two weeks ago, he guided Cabo’s Rumor owned by Northpointe Thoroughbreds to victory in the $60,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenilefor Louisiana-bred 2-year-old colts and geldings. The son of Amanecer de Oro ran fourth to the highly regarded Pickett in the D S Shine Futurity last month at Evangeline Downs and Nieves felt he and his mount learned from that stakes foray.
“He’s a pretty nice baby,” stated Nieves. “He didn’t like the dirt hitting him at Evangeline, so in the Louisiana Downs stakes, I tried to keep him clear of the field. At the 3/8th pole, I asked him and he responded perfectly.”
Nieves appreciates the hard work of his agent in getting him an abundance of quality mounts. He rides for a multitude of trainers including Joey Foster, Al Stall, Jr., Karl Broberg, H. B. Johnson, Joe Duhon, Beverly Burress, Jose Camejo, Sarah Delany, Tommy Ives and Michael McEachern.
On Monday’s card, Nieves rode three winners for three different barns, including a game victory in the fourth aboard Pickett’s Deelite ($17.60) for trainer Joey Foster.
Foster knows Nieves well and is a prominent supporter of the young rider.
“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.”
This would be the first leading rider title for Nieves, and Foster is optimistic that it will come to fruition.
“He deserves it,” said Foster. “Emanuel might look like a kid, but sure doesn’t act like one. This is what he loves to do; we would all be happy to see him become the leading rider.”
With the Louisiana Downs meet continuing through September 27, Nieves is not over confident, but hopeful that he will win the first title of his career.
“It would be amazing and mean a lot,” said Nieves. “I could not have gotten this far without the support of a great team behind me. I work hard every day and am very thankful the opportunity to ride so many good horses.”
Nieves remains close to both Ortiz brothers and cites John Velazquez as another jockey he respects. Jose Ortiz, currently the #1 ranked rider in earnings, according to Equibase statistics, took time from his base in Saratoga to compliment Nieves.
“Emanuel is a great person and after two years at the Jockey School, he is like a brother to me,” said Ortiz. “He always wanted to help others and I am very proud of him!”
Noon Post Time Set for Super Derby Day
The Louisiana Downs racing office is preparing for their next big stakes day on Sunday, September 2. An early post time of 12:00 pm(Central) is planned for the Super Derby card. Nominations close on August 18 for the seven stakes, which include:
$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)
$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)
Super Derby Charity Golf Tournament Set for August 23
The Super Derby Charity Golf Tournament will be held on Thursday, August 23, at Querbes Golf Course in Shreveport, Louisiana.
The event will benefit Chaplain Jimmy Sistrunk & The Winner’s Circle Church, 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, set for Sunday, September 2.
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 16. Hole sponsorships for $100, including a sign, are available, but must be purchased by August 1.
For further information, please contact Jennifer Sokol, Louisiana Downs Racing Office Manager 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.
SEVERAL FROM THE $60,000 SUPER DERBY PRELUDE SET THEIR SIGHTS ON THE GRADE 3, $300,000 SUPER DERBY AT HARRAH’S LOUISIANA DOWNS
Lone Sailor Nominated to the Super Derby by Trainer Tom Amoss
Bossier City, LA – A full field in last Saturday’s $60,000 Super Derby Prelude put on quite a show at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs. Three of the top four finishers from the Prelude now have their sights set on the Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derbyon Sunday, September 2. The richest race of the 2018 Louisiana Downs Thoroughbred racing season will also be contested on the main track at a distance of a mile and one-sixteenth.
Robert Guidry’s Autumn Hill Farms Racing Stable Inc’s homebred Autumn Warrior was sent off as the even-money favorite in the Prelude. Stretching out for the first time for trainer Al Stall Jr., the son of Orb out of the Posse mare, Kinsolving entered the Prelude off two convincing wins, but his trip on Saturday was far from simple! He stumbled out of the gate and found himself seventh heading into the far turn. Jockey Colby Hernandez remained patient and guided his charge to the outside where he was finally able to shake free, winning in a photo-finish.
Stall was at Saratoga on Saturday and had a few anxious moments as he watched the race.
“At the five furlong mark, I didn’t think he would even hit the board,” acknowledged Stall. “He missed the break, which was an issue as he had previously run forwardly placed. Colby did a good job, but I give a lot of credit to the horse. He handled adversity for the first time; that will help him as he goes forward.”
Stall added that Autumn Warrior came out of the Prelude in good order.
“He was on the muscle; sound and eating well,” he said. “He’s a bull of a horse!”
G’s Turn with rider Thomas Pompell in the saddle, ran a game second. Owned by Tom Galvin of Dallas, Texas, the son of Alternation was making his 14th career start in the Prelude. Campaigned on both turf and dirt by trainer Patricia West, G’s Turn was dismissed by the betting public at odds of 23-1. He had a similar challenging trip to that of Autumn Warrior, but finally got clear and rallied for second.
“He was stuck behind a wall of horses and couldn’t get clear,” said West. “Tom is a strong rider and makes good decisions; he did a good job on Saturday.”
West has 11 horses in her barn, and stated she will nominate G’s Turn for the Super Derby.
“We will run as long as he stays healthy and we feel he can be competitive,” she added.
Rosemont Farm’s homebred Zanesville ran third, by a nose, for trainer Tom Amoss. The son of Tiznow was ridden by Gerard Melancon.
“He made a brilliant move at the half-mile pole to the head of the stretch,” said Amoss. “He’s back in Kentucky now and we have not made a decision yet about the Super Derby.”
However, Amoss does have one of his top 3-year-olds possibly headed to the Super Derby.
“I nominated Lone Sailor this morning,” Amoss reported from his base at Saratoga.
G M B Racing’s Lone Sailor, a colt by Majestic Warrior, ran eighth in the Grade 1, Kentucky Derby and followed that with solid efforts in the Preakness Stakes, Ohio Derby and most recently, the Grade 1, Haskell Invitational at Monmouth Park, where he finished third.
Oakwood Stable Inc.’s McFeely completed the superfecta in the Prelude and is also on target for the Super Derby. The colt by Scat Daddy was making his stakes debut last weekend under jockey Ashley Broussard. He broke his maiden at Evangeline Downs on May 25, adding an allowance win three weeks later for trainer John Ney.
David Heitzmann, Louisiana Downs Director of Racing, was pleased with the quality of the Louisiana Cup Day card and response from horseplayers locally and across the country.
“We were up a little over 18% per race, from last year,” said Heitzmann. “The Prelude was an excellent race and served as a great springboard to the Super Derby. My staff is already working on the Super Derby Day card and we are hopeful that we will run 13 races on September 2.”
Noon Post Time Set for Super Derby Day
The Louisiana Downs racing office is preparing for their next big stakes day on Sunday, September 2. An early post time of 12:00 pm (Central) is planned for the Super Derby card. Nominations close on August 18 for the seven stakes, which include:
$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) $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)
Super Derby Charity Golf Tournament Set for August 23
The Super Derby Charity Golf Tournament will be held on Thursday, August 23, at Querbes Golf Course in Shreveport, Louisiana.
The event will benefit Chaplain Jimmy Sistrunk & The Winner’s Circle Church, 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, set for Sunday, September 2.
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 16. Hole sponsorships for $100, including a sign, are available, but must be purchased by August 1.
For further information, please contact Jennifer Sokol, Louisiana Downs Racing Office Manager at (318) 741-2512.
Trainer, Jockey and Owner Standings
As of August 7, Al Stall, Jr. and Karl Broberg top the trainer standings with 17 wins each. Danny Pish is second with 14 victories and Jorge Lara and Joe Duhon have each saddled 13 winners.
Emanuel Nieves has been steady throughout the 2018 Thoroughbred meet and is the current leader in the jockey standings with 52 wins. He guided Cabo’s Rumor to victory in Saturday’s $60,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile for Northpointe Thoroughbreds and trainer Steven Duke. Last year’s leading jockey Gerardo Mora is second with 47 trips to the winner’s circle and Joel Dominguez, who lost his bug on May 24, is third with 43 wins. Rounding out the top four is Richard Eramia, who has won 33 races this season.
End Zone Athletics, Inc. has won 11 races to take the lead in the owner standings. Dream Walkin Farms, Inc. follows closely with 10 wins and Jorge Gomez, Patti Turner and Indian Creek Thoroughbred Farms LLC 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.
NOMINATIONS FOR LOUISIANA CUP DAY AT HARRAH’S LOUISIANA DOWNS CLOSE SATURDAY, JULY 21
Bossier City, LA – The Louisiana Downs racing office is busy this week taking nominations for Louisiana Cup Day on Saturday, August 4. Nominations for the seven stakes will close this Saturday, July 21.
Trainer H. B. Johnson has three runners pointed to Louisiana Cup Day, including Berniestrike, who pulled the upset in last year’s$50,000 Louisiana Cup Turf Classic. Bred and owned by James Boyd, the son of Wilburn out of the Unusual Heat mare Unusual Strike wore down his rivals under rider Eguard Tejera.
Sent off at 22-1, Berniestrike, who ran third in the 2016 edition of this stakes, paid $46.20 for the victory. He won off an eight-month layoff last year and will be making his first stakes in six months,as his last race was the Dixie Poker Ace on March 3 at Fair Grounds.
“He ran in New Orleans and got hurt, so we had to give him some time off,” said Johnson. “I think he’ll do well again; turf is his best surface.”
The 5-year-old gelding has won four of his 19 starts, earning $169,470 to date.
His half-brother Jimi’s a Star, also owned and bred by Boyd, will make his stakes debut in the $50,000 Louisiana Cup Juvenile. Sired by Star Guitar out of Unusual Strike, he ran a game second to Liaisons Halo in a $23,000 maiden special weight here on July 9. Jockey Emanuel Nieves had the call.
“He’s a pretty nice horse,” said Johnson. “In his debut, he was a little erratic, but came running late. I think he’ll improve in his second start.”
Johnson’s third runner is Smokin’ Truth, who is slated to run in the $50,000 Louisiana Cup Sprint. The 3-year-old son of Yes Its True is co-owned by Johnson and Drop 23, LLC. He ran third in the 2017 Louisiana Cup Juvenile and eighth in the Sunday Silence here on Super Derby Day.
Another veteran trainer Robert Schultz has nominated Double Star for the $60,000 Prelude. Owned by Four Star Racing, the son of Star Guitar out of the Stormy Atlantic mare Bond Queen, has won four of his 12 career efforts, including two stakes earlier this year at Evangeline Downs. Schultz shipped the bay colt to Louisiana Downs and ran him in a turf allowance on July 6, where he finished sixth.
“Either he didn’t like the turf or facing that company, it wasn’t his best race,” stated Schultz. “Sometimes 3-year-olds get funny when they are up against older horses.”
Schultz looks for a good performance from Double Star, who will be ridden by Jose Guerrero.
“He’s been on him all but once,” he added. “Jose is a good, young rider.”
Mary Rampellini of the Daily Racing Form broke the news that Analyze This Jet is being pointed to the Prelude by his trainer, Terry Eoff. The stakes winner has been gelded since running fourth in the $65,000 Prairie Mile at Prairie Meadows June 8.
The Prelude serves as a prep for the Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby which will be run on Sunday, September 2.
Louisiana Cup Day nominations for the following stakes close on July 21.
$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
Super Derby Charity Golf Tournament Set for August 23
The Super Derby Charity Golf Tournament will be held on Thursday, August 23, at Querbes Golf Course in Shreveport, Louisiana.
The event will benefit Chaplain Jimmy Sistrunk & The Winner’s Circle Church, 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, set for Sunday, September 2.
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 16. Hole sponsorships for $100, including a sign, are available, but must be purchased by August 1.
For further information, please contact Jennifer Sokol, Louisiana Downs Racing Office Manager 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 27. The 84-day meet will include 14 stakes highlighted by two major events, Louisiana Cup Day on Saturday, August 4and Super Derby Day on Sunday, September 2. As previously announced one major change for the upcoming season is that the Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby will return to the main track at a distance of a mile and one-sixteenth on Sunday, September 2.
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 PURSE INCREASES FOR THE 2018 THOROUGHBRED MEET
Bossier City, LA – Harrah’s Louisiana Downs has announced an increase in overnight race purses for the 2018 Thoroughbred season, effective June 30. All overnight races, up to and including $12,500, will be increased by $1,500. All other purses will be raised by $1,000.
The 84-day live racing season began on May 5 and the cards on Saturday, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesdayafternoons have been well-received on-track as well as by simulcast players throughout the country. With two major stakes days, Louisiana Cup Day on August 4 and
Super Derby Day on September 2, the purse increases will bolster the daily race cards for the meet which continues through Wednesday, September 26.
“We are pleased to announce this purse increase,” said David Heitzmann, Harrah’s Louisiana Downs Racing Secretary. “While our Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby remains the richest race of the meet, we have a loyal core of horsemen who work hard to fill races throughout the season. We are hopeful that this increase will benefit both our horsemen and horseplayers.”
The annual Louisiana Cup Day on August 4 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 on the turf 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. In addition to the Super Derby, six additional stakes will be contested on Sunday, September 2 with total purses for the holiday card totaling $660,000.
Big Saturday for Jockey Joel Dominguez and Agent Don Simington
Saturday, June 23 was a memorable day for both jockey Joel Dominguez and his agent, Don Simington. Dominguez won six of seven races on the card at Louisiana Downs, finishing third in the sixth race. Hector Del-Cid, who also is represented by Simington, guided Bitsy’s Half to victory, “spoiling” the sweep by Dominguez.
Dominguez began his day winning the first five races, beginning with Gardner’s Song; Phat and Fast; N.D. Free; Sunshine Tutie and Vinyl. He returned to the winner’s circle in the finale aboard Beautiful Gi Gi.
“The day set up perfectly for me,” admitted Dominguez. “I told my wife that I was named on a lot of horses that had a shot. But I never thought I could win six races!
As previously been reported in weekly notes, the 28-year-old rider ended his apprentice status on May 23. He was confident that he would make the transition to journeyman status with the support of many trainers, including Al Stall, Jr., Joe Duhon, Dana Whited, Ronnie Ward, Ralph Irwin and Al Cates.
After losing his bug, Dominguez stated that one of his goals was to finish in the top three in the rider standings. He has won 27 races and is currently tied with Emanuel Nieves for the lead. Last year as an apprentice, Dominguez finished as the tenth-leading rider with 31 victories.
Born in Durango, Mexico, Dominguez credits his hard-working agent, Simington for his success so far as well as his record-setting Saturday.
“Don has me riding for many different barns,” he said. “He’s doing a great job!”
Simington, hung up his tack in 2015 after winning over 3,400 races. He won five races on a card at Louisiana Downs several years ago, but had no issue with Dominguez breaking his record!
“It was an exciting day for Joel and nice day for me, winning seven races with my riders,” said Simington.
Camel and Ostrich Racing Set for July 4
Harrah’s Louisiana Downs is hosting Exotic Animal Races on Wednesday, July 4th. Fans of all ages will enjoy Ostriches and Camels racing on the main track in between live Thoroughbred races. Post time is 3:15 pm and activities for families on the Kid’s Zone apron will get underway at noon. The popular Food Trucks will make a return appearance and The Harrah’s Club is offering an All you can eat, All day Buffet for $29.99.
Wednesday and Saturday Race Day Promotions
Louisiana Downs offers value for racing fans each Wednesday with Dollar Day. They will be able to enjoy $1 hot dogs, $1 beer at the Paddock as well as $1 programs. Saturday’s weekly promotion is the Family Four Packfeaturing four hot dogs, four sodas, a program, and a box seat for four at the affordable price of just $16.
The Total Rewards program is free for horseplayers. With the swipe of their card each Saturday, members will receive valuable incentives. These include:
- Play $250 or more to receive a 5X multiplier
- Play $1,000 or more to receive a 7X multiplier
- Play $5,000 or more to receive a 10X multiplier
Participant’s multiplier cannot exceed a total balance of more than one hundred thousand (100,000) Reward Credits during one promotional day after the multiplier is applied.
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 27.
The 84-day meet will include 14 stakes highlighted by two major events, Louisiana Cup Day on Saturday, August 4 and Super Derby Day on Sunday, September 2. As previously announced one major change for the upcoming season is that the Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby will return to the main track at a distance of a mile and one-sixteenth on Sunday, September 2.
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 LOUISANA DOWNS GETS UNDERWAY ON SATURDAY, MAY 5
Opening Day Features the Simulcast of the 144th Kentucky Derby
Bossier City, LA – The 2018 Thoroughbred racing season at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs commences on Saturday, May 5. Opening day will include eight races beginning at 3:15 pm (Central) and the simulcast of the 144th Kentucky Derby from Churchill Downs.
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.
The 84-day meet will include 14 stakes highlighted by two major stakes programs, Louisiana Cup Day on Saturday, August 4 and Super Derby Day on Sunday, September 2.
“We look forward to welcoming racing fans to Louisiana Downs this Saturday,” said Trent McIntosh, Louisiana Downs assistant general manager. “Opening day is always very exciting with live racing, the simulcast of the Kentucky Derby and a festival atmosphere suited for fans of all ages. The interest from horsemen has been strong and our goal is to offer quality racing to our horseplayers throughout the 2018 Thoroughbred meet.”
Super Derby Update and Fond Memories for Owner Staton Flurry
Louisiana Downs will present 14 stakes highlighted by two major events, Louisiana Cup Day on Saturday, August 4 and Super Derby Day on Sunday, September 2. As previously announced one major change for the upcoming season is that the Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby will return to the main track at a distance of mile and one-sixteenth on Sunday, September 2.
In 2017, the Super Derby was contested on the Franks Turf Course and Flurry Racing Stable LLC’s Mr. Misunderstood scored a definitive victory in the richest race of the season. Trained by Brad Cox, the gelded son of Archarcharch, shipped to Bossier City for the $60,000 Prelude, won that easily to earn a berth to the Super Derby, the meet’s richest stakes.
Staton Flurry, 27, is a young owner with a keen eye for racing prospects. He purchased Mr. Misunderstood for $130,000 at the 2016 Ocala Breeders’ Two-Year-Old in Training Sale and sent him to Cox, who is emerging as one of the country’s most respected conditioners.
After Mr. Misunderstood finished a disappointing seventh in the 2017 Illinois Derby, Cox urged Flurry to consider a switch to grass for the dark bay gelding.
“Brad suggested we run Mr. Misunderstood on the turf,” Flurry explained. “He has a knack for listening to the horse and the horse really liked it.”
Make that really, really liked it! Flurry’s pride and joy who was entered in a $30,000 claiming race at Fair Grounds at the end of 2016, went on to win seven consecutive turf races last year, culminating with a victory in the Grade 3, Commonwealth Turf Stakes at Churchill Downs.
Flurry has 15 horses in training with Cox, Kevin Martin and Karl Broberg and was not overly disappointed hearing the news that the Super Derby would revert to the main track.
“The way that I see it, we got a little piece of history,” he said. “I loved the experience and we enjoyed running at Louisiana Downs. I bought a Louisiana-bred at the TTA Sale last month; he had one of the top five works. If all goes well, we’re hoping to get him in a prep this meet and aim for the Prelude.”
Flurry makes his living in the family-owned parking lot business in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He has ties to Midget Car Racing but admits that horseracing is his passion.
“It gets in your blood,” admits Flurry. “I’m part owner of (the undefeated 3-year-old trained by Cox) Exclamation Point, who is pointed to the Sir Barton at Pimlico. I love studying bloodlines, attending the sales and watching my horses train. Of course, winning never gets old!”
Trainers and Jockeys To Watch
Joey Foster of Vinton, Louisiana, who has won the last two training titles at Louisiana Downs, returns with a full barn. He saddled 68 winners last year to top H. B. Johnson, Karl Broberg, James Hodges, Sarah Delany, Pat Mouton, Dana Whited and Danny Pish, all of whom return with runners on the opening day card.
Last year’s leading rider, Gerardo Mora, will be back, along with Richard Eramia, Aubrie Green, Filimon Rodriguez, Eguard Tejera Hector Del-Cid, Jose Guerrero, and Kevin Smith.
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 27.
The 84-day meet will include 14 stakes highlighted by two major events, Louisiana Cup Day on Saturday, August 4 and Super Derby Day on Sunday, September 2. As previously announced one major change for the upcoming season is that the Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby will return to the main track at a distance of mile and one-sixteenth on Sunday, September 2.
Saturday, August 4 Louisiana Cup Day Noms close July 21
$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
Sunday, September 2 Super Derby Day Noms close August 18
$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)
$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)
Race Day Promotions
The Total Rewards program at Louisiana Downs is free for horseplayers. With the swipe of their card each Saturday, members will receive valuable incentives, beginning May 5. These include:
- Play $250 or more to receive a 5X multiplier
- Play $1,000 or more to receive a 7X multiplier
- Play $5,000 or more to receive a 10X multiplier
Participant’s multiplier cannot exceed a total balance of more than one hundred thousand (100,000) Reward Credits during one promotional day after the multiplier is applied.
Also, fans in attendance on Saturday, May 5 will receive a $5.00 FREE BET which can be redeemed on Saturday, May 19. Louisiana Downs offers value for racing fans each Wednesday with Dollar Day. They will be able to enjoy $1 hot dogs, $1 beer at the Paddock as well as $1 programs. Saturday’s weekly promotion is the Family Four Pack featuring four hot dogs, four sodas, a program, and a box seat for four at the affordable price of just $16.
For more information on the upcoming racing season and special events, 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.
For further information, please contact:
| Trent McIntosh | Assistant General Manager O 318-752-6980 8000 East Texas Street | Bossier City, LA 71111 www.caesars.com |
HARRAH’S LOUISANA DOWNS ANNOUNCES ITS 2018 THOROUGHBRED STAKES SCHEDULE
Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby Set for Sunday, September 2
Bossier City, LA – The 2018 Thoroughbred racing season will get underway at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs on Saturday, May 5. The 84-day meet will include 14 stakes featured in two premier events, Louisiana Cup Day on Saturday, August 4 and Super Derby Day on Sunday, September 2.
The live racing season will be highlighted by the running of the Grade 3, $300,000 Super Derby, which will be run at the distance of a mile and one-sixteenth. Contested on the Frank’s Turf Course in 2017, the Super Derby will revert to a main track feature and has been awarded Grade 3 status by the American Graded Stakes Committee.
The Super Derby, 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 produced 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
“The Super Derby will always be a race with tremendous historic significance for Louisiana Downs,” said Trent McIntosh, Louisiana Downs assistant general manager. “Horsemen will have a solid prep race on August 4 in the Super Derby Prelude with the winner earning a berth to the $300,000 Super Derby on September 2. We appreciate the consideration from the American Graded Stakes Committee in granting graded stakes status to the Super Derby and look forward to presenting a quality field of 3-year-olds on September 2.”
In addition to the Super Derby, six additional stakes will be contested on Sunday, September 2 with total purses for the holiday card totaling $660,000. Officials felt that the move to Sunday of Labor Day weekend would be positive for both handle and local racing fans and families.
“There are few major stakes on Sunday,” added McIntosh. “Most are run on Saturday or on Labor Day. We feel that the move to Sunday will create strong interest from horseplayers, here and on a national level. In addition, we will offer many family-friendly promotions to attract local fans looking for an enjoyable holiday outing.”
The annual Louisiana Cup 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 on the turf 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 and Saturday with a 3:15 p.m. (Central) post time through September 26. For more information on the upcoming racing season and special events, visit https://www.caesars.com/harrahs-louisiana-downs/racing.
Louisiana Downs 2018 Stakes Schedule
Saturday, August 4 Louisiana Cup Day Noms close July 21
$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
Sunday, September 2 Super Derby Day Noms close August 18
$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)
$300,000 SUPER DERBY (G3)
3 YO 1 1/16 miles (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)
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.
For further information, please contact:
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Trent McIntosh | Assistant General Manager |
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