(New Orleans, LA) - In addition to benefitting from one of the most lucrative overnight purse structures and breeding incentive programs in the country, Accredited Louisiana breds will have a nearly $6 million stakes schedule to run at in 2024, the Louisiana Thoroughbred Breeders Association has announced.
“We are proud to offer a dynamic stakes program that provides a year-round schedule for Accredited Louisiana breds,” said Roger Heitzmann III, secretary-treasurer of the LTBA. “With a total of 67 stakes for $5.71 million, there are opportunities for horses of all ages, going long and short, and on turf and dirt. There are also several races with starter or non-winners of a stake conditions, so there is truly a chance for all types of runners to compete."
Of the 67 stakes races, 33 will offer a purse of $100,000 or more. While many states offer a special day of stakes races dedicated to state breds, Louisiana is the only one to present four state-bred stakes showcases with one at each of the state’s racetracks. Delta Downs Racetrack, Casino and Hotel has Louisiana Premier Night, Evangeline Downs Racetrack and Casino offers Louisiana Legeands Night, Fair Grounds Race Course and Slots presents Louisiana Champions Day, and Louisiana Downs provides Louisiana Cup Day.
“Our owners and trainers have found this to be a tremendous benefit, and we are thankful to have four tracks that do great job of supporting Louisiana breds,” added Heitzmann. “There is always a big stakes day coming up on the horizon, so it provides extra flexibility to run horses on a schedule that meets their individual needs.”
The Louisiana bred stakes program has proven to be a launching pad for horses like Free Like a Girl, a millionaire who has won an incredible 14 stakes in Louisiana while also competing successfully in graded stakes company around the country. Bred by Kim Renee Stover and Lisa Osborne, the daughter of Louisiana stallion El Deal is being aimed for a possible start in the Grade 1, $1.25 million Apple Blossom Handicap at Oaklawn Park in April.
While the stakes and overnight purses make Accredited Louisiana breds more valuable to owners, there are also benefits for breeders and stallion owners. Breeders can earn up to 25% in breeders’ awards for horses finishing in the top three in races in Louisiana, and worldwide breeders’ awards are paid on races outside of the state. Stallion awards are paid on top three finishes in allowance, handicap, and stakes within the state, in addition to stakes races outside of Louisiana.
For more information about the 2024 Accredited Louisiana-bred stakes schedule, go to www.louisianabred.com or visit the individual racetrack’s websites for specific date information and conditions.
