Louisiana, known as the ‘Sportsman’s Paradise’, is a state in the United States of America with a rich history of horse racing. Louisiana was the first state to legalize pari-mutuel betting in the United States and today, it is home to a variety of horse tracks. This article will explore the number of horse tracks in Louisiana and the history of horse racing in the state.
History of Horse Racing in Louisiana
Horse racing in Louisiana dates back to the early 19th century. It began when the New Orleans Jockey Club, founded in 1838, began holding horse races on the outskirts of the city. Soon after, the Louisiana Jockey Club was founded and held races at a track in Opelousas. The sport grew in popularity and in the late 19th century, the Louisiana State Fair was founded, which held horse racing events in Shreveport.
In the early 1900s, the sport began to decline due to the rise of other forms of entertainment and the Great Depression. However, the sport was revived in the mid-20th century when pari-mutuel betting was legalized in the state. This allowed for betting on horse races and spurred a new wave of interest in the sport.
Number of Horse Tracks in Louisiana
Today, Louisiana is home to a variety of horse tracks. There are seven active horse tracks located in the state, including:
- Fair Grounds Race Course in New Orleans
- Delta Downs in Vinton
- Evangeline Downs in Opelousas
- Louisiana Downs in Shreveport
- Cypremort Point in St. Mary Parish
- Lone Star Park in Bossier City
- Harrah’s Louisiana Downs in Bossier City
These seven active horse tracks host a variety of races throughout the year, ranging from Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred races to harness racing.
Types of Horse Races in Louisiana
Horse racing in Louisiana consists of a variety of different types of races. The most popular type of race is the Thoroughbred race, which consists of horses racing around a track. Other types of races include Quarter Horse racing, which is a shorter distance race, and harness racing, which is a race in which horses pull a two-wheeled cart.
Thoroughbred Racing
Thoroughbred races are the most popular type of horse race in Louisiana. These races involve horses running around a track, usually at a distance of one mile. The horses typically race against each other and the winner is the horse that crosses the finish line first.
Quarter Horse Racing
Quarter Horse racing is a type of horse race in which horses run a shorter distance than in a Thoroughbred race. These races involve horses running around a track, usually at a distance of one quarter of a mile. The horses typically race against each other and the winner is the horse that crosses the finish line first.
Harness Racing
Harness racing is a type of horse race in which horses pull a two-wheeled cart. These races involve horses running around a track, usually at a distance of one mile. The horses typically race against each other and the winner is the horse that crosses the finish line first.
Louisiana Horse Racing Events
Horse racing events are held throughout the year in Louisiana. The most popular event is the Louisiana Derby, which is held each year in March at the Fair Grounds Race Course in New Orleans. Other popular events include the Delta Downs Racing Festival, the Evangeline Downs Racing Festival, and the Louisiana State Fair.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Louisiana is home to seven active horse tracks and hosts a variety of horse racing events throughout the year. Horse racing has been a part of Louisiana’s culture for centuries and continues to be a popular pastime for many residents of the state. Whether you’re looking to bet on a race or just watch the horses run, you can find something for everyone at one of the state’s horse tracks.