b'We probablyhave the mostimpeccable track for both training and racingjason boulEtdirector of racing. The spillway sand from the Mississippi River is where we get the sand for our surface. We probably have the most impeccable track for both training and racing.Our turf course over the last four or five seasons has come a long way. Weve gotten a lot of attention about how great it is. We did some revamping of it about four years ago with drainage, and ever since then weve been rolling pretty hard on the turf.Through the years, Fair Grounds has seen more than its share of horse racing history. Renowned horses such as Ken-tucky Derby winner Black Gold (ridden MarsHall Blevinsby city native J.D. Mooney), Queen of the Turf Pan Zareta, Triple Crown winner Whirlaway, and Preakness and Belmont stakes winner Risen Star madeHats and elegant attire come out for Louisiana Derby Day, the tracks signature event.their marks there.Elite jockeys such as Eddie Arcaro, Johnny Longden, Willie Shoemaker, Eddie Delahoussaye, and Pat Day crossed the FairThe track has suffered its share of damage Grounds wire. over the years, including a 1993 fire that The annual racing highlight is Louisi- completely destroyed the grandstandana Derby Day, culminated by the gradewhich was rebuilt and reopened in 972 TwinSpires.com Louisiana Derby forand the effects of Hurricane Katrina, which 3-year-olds. In addition to boasting one offorced the facilitys closure for more than a the top prep races for the Kentucky Derby,year.the card also includes the TwinSpires.comFair Grounds offers a wide selection of Fair Grounds Oaks (G2) for 3-year-oldseating options, ranging from ultramodern fillies, the New Orleans Handicap (G2)dining facilities in a glass-enclosed club-for older horses, and the Muniz Memorialhousecomplete with video monitors at Handicap (G2T) on turf for 4-year-oldseach tableto no-frills grandstand seating and up. outdoors. The grandstand and clubhouse are Mid-Februarys Louisiana Derbyjoined by a slot-machine facility.Preview Day card includes the Risen StarFair Grounds also hosts the annual New Stakes Presented by Lamarque Ford (G2)Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival each spring.for 3-year-olds and the Rachel AlexandraWhen we go out to recruit [horsemen], Stakes (G2) for 3-year-old fillies. Boulet said, we say, If you want to keep MarsHall BlevinsThe Road to the Derby Kickoff Day, inyour horses safe and have a great experience mid-January, includes the Lecomte Stakesin New Orleans and eat some great food, you (G3) for those eyeing a Run for the Roses. come to the New Orleans Fair Grounds. 2304_WinterRacing.indd 23 3/21/19 2:30 PM'