Handle Soars at Delta Downs

At its recent meet that ended March 27, Delta Downs reported a 32% increase in handle over last year's results, with a total handle of more than $115 million. The track, located near Vinton, La., paid nearly $206,000 in purses per day, a daily increase of nearly $10,000, according to statistics reported to the Jockey Club Information Systems.

Delta Downs installed slot machines in 2002 and from February of 2002 to January 2003 $18.8 million in profits from the machines went toward purses. That windfall helped Delta Downs offer $1.35 million in purses on Dec. 5 alone, including the $1 million Delta Jackpot for 2-year-olds.