Purses at Louisiana Downs Increased for 2005 Season

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.