Fair Grounds Meet to Move Forward After Dates Approved

Meeting June 24 in New Orleans, the Louisiana Racing Commission formally approved customary race dates for Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots, during which the track will race Nov. 20-March 22. The approval by the commission was little more than a formality after Louisiana horsemen and track operator Churchill Downs Inc. reached an agreement last week to race. The future of racing at the historic track had been in doubt after CDI threatened to surrender its racing license without legislative relief following court rulings and the advancement of legislation that CDI viewed as financially detrimental. Central to CDI's concerns was a Louisiana Supreme Court ruling in March that declared the statute authorizing historical horse racing gaming unconstitutional without first requiring local voter approval. Fair Grounds still has a casino and can operate video poker machines at its off-track betting locations. Last week, CDI noted constructive conversations with Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry and Louisiana Senate President Cameron Henry. The agreement by CDI and horsemen also followed actions by the state legislature and city council to protect the historic property. A finalization of the number of race days and races per day is scheduled to be presented to the LRC during its August meeting after Fair Grounds officials and horsemen work out those details. CDI promised that its delayed paddock improvements are "moving forward." They plan to replace paddock pavers to "ensure a smooth and uniform walking surface in the paddock area." The LRC intends to fine the operator if the improvements are not completed before the start of the season.