Purses at Louisiana Downs Increased for 2005 Season

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Harrah's Louisiana Downs announced today that they have increased purse offerings for the 2005 racing season, which opens April 29 and runs through Oct. 9, to average $210,000 per day. In addition, the purse for the Super Derby XXVI (gr. II) was increased from $500,000 to $750,000 and the distance returned to 1 1/4 miles.

"We are delighted to announce this purse increase," said Ray A. Tromba, vice president of racing operations. "This is a direct result of increased revenues in our casino and simulcast operations."

Purses during the 2004 season averaged $187,000.

The Super Derby was run at 1 1/4 miles from its inaugural running in 1980 through 2001, and in 2002 the distance was shortened to 1 1/8 miles.

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