Thoroughbred racing returns to Louisiana Downs

A large crowd turned out Saturday, May 3, at Louisiana Downs Racetrack and Casino in Bossier City for the opening day of the thoroughbred racing season. Patrons enjoyed seven races locally, along with food trucks and bounce houses for the kids. And many stuck around to watch the simulcast of Sovereignty’s victory in the Kentucky Derby.

It was a day of fun for the entire family. “Our team was extremely happy with the turnout for Saturday’s 52nd opening day,” Louisiana Downs President Kevin Preston said. “The weather was fantastic, all of our races were exciting, and many were down to the wire. I’d like to thank our team, all our loyal customers, the owners, jockeys and trainers that make it happen here at Louisiana Downs each and every day.”

Before opening day, Bossier City Mayor Tommy Chandler was on hand for a luncheon to preview the season.

“I love this time of year,” Chandler said.

“Summer is coming along, and Louisiana Downs is open. And it is awesome. I love how Kevin and Tom have put Louisiana Downs back on the map again. I love to come here with my family and friends. It’s a good time. I hope for a great racing season.”

Roxanne Tanner, director of racing, said the season will feature 60 days of racing.

“We’re excited to get our meet kicked off,” she said.

She said one of the reasons for the excitement is the return of some horse racing Hall of Fame members, including jockey Calvin Borel and trainer Steve Asmussen, who “loves our racing surface,” Tanner said.

The meet will include three Saturdays with major stakes races. The Yellow Hammer will be on June 23. The Louisiana Cup is on Aug. 30, and the Super Derby returns on Sept. 6.

“We made national news last year,” Tanner said of the Super Derby. “I thought our bill was one of the better summer derbies out there.”

In addition to the stakes races, the schedule will feature special racing events, including exotic animal races on Memorial Day and the Wiener Dog races on Labor Day.

“We have an action-packed couple of weeks there in August and September,” Tanner said.

Preston said he appreciated customers who have continued to visit Louisiana Downs while construction continues nearby on Interstate 20. He said visitors will appreciate improvements in all areas of the property.

“You’ll find we continue to put money into Louisiana Downs,” he said. “Walking the floor, you’ll find more than 400 new slot machines. Lucky Palace is here, which has been great for us — a staple in town for a long time. We are really focusing on the customer aspects of providing a competitive race and viewing experience with the bigger tracks.”

For more information about the thoroughbred racing season, special events, entertainment, food and more at Louisiana Downs, visit the website at www.ladowns.com.