Strong handle during the first seven weeks of the 152nd racing season has prompted a 10% purse increase across the board, in addition to $25,000 added to the purses of 10 stakes, announced Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots Tuesday.
“We're extremely excited to announce a 10% increase to our daily purse structure along with the $25,000 boost to 10 stakes,” Fair Grounds' racing secretary Scott Jones said. “Based on the strong early handle returns and continued support from our owners, horsemen, and horseplayers, we are in a position to raise purses.”
The 10% across the board purse increase will go in effect with Condition Book 4, which begins with the Thursday, Jan. 25 card (drawn Thursday, Jan. 18).
The purse increase includes both open races and Louisiana-bred races. Maiden special weight races will rise to $57,000. The seven remaining stakes–listed at $75,000–have been increased to $100,000: Louisiana Broodmare of the Year, Louisiana Stallion of the Year, Allen “Black Cat” Lacombe Memorial, Black Gold, Edward J. Johnston Memorial, Red Camelia and Page Cortez.
Additionally, three stakes slated for Louisiana Derby Day (Mar. 23) have been boosted by $25,000. The Tom Benson Memorial, a 1 1/16 miles turf route for older fillies and mares will now be run for $150,000 purse, and both the Crescent City Derby and Oaks will now be run for $125,000.
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