Edited press release
Fair Grounds has increased overnight purses 25%--$12,000 per race--effective March 15. It's the third purse hike during the current meet at the Louisiana racetrack.
The purse enhancements were implemented due to several factors, including continued better-than-expected business levels at Fair Grounds and its eight affiliated off-track betting facilities in southeast Louisiana, and record on-track and all-sources handle on Louisiana Derby (gr. II) day March 10.
Overnight purses were increased $3,000 per race in mid-January, and $3,500 per race in early February. The 25% increase means $5,000 claimers will run for more than $30,000, and maiden special weight events will go for about $60,000.
The Fair Grounds meet concludes March 25.