Fair Grounds & Slots announced on January 3 a comprehensive 15% wallet increase. The New Orleans oval cites a firm grip during the first five weeks of the 150th racing season as inspiration for the rise.
“We are extremely pleased to announce a 15% increase in our daily purse structure,” said Fair Grounds race secretary Scott Jones. “Based on profits from strong early steering and continued support from our owners and riders, we are in a position to increase the purse strings.”
The 15% table-wide purse increase will be effective immediately, starting with entries for the Thursday, January 13 card, which will be withdrawn on Thursday, January 6. Heavyweight races. The women’s special will now be worth $52,000. The increase most likely includes both open races and Louisiana-bred races.
The Fair Grounds 2021-22 season will continue through March 27. Meetups marked by the March 26 tag include TwinSpires.com Louisiana Derby (G2) and TwinSpires.com Fair Grounds Oaks (G2). In addition to the Louisiana Derby, other Road to the Kentucky Derby races at the Fair Grounds include the January 22 Lecomte Bet (G3) and the February 19 Easter Star Bet presented by Lamarque Ford (G2). Fair Grounds Oaks, February 19 Rachel Alexandra Stock presented by Fasig-Tipton (G2), and January 22 Silverbulletday Stock as part of Road to Kentucky Oaks.
