Racing returns to Louisiana Downs for Kentucky Derby day

BOSSIER CITY, La. (KTAL/KMSS) — Racing returns to Louisiana Downs Saturday, May 3, Kentucky Derby Day.

The first post time is scheduled for 2:35 p.m. Racing will continue throughout the afternoon, leading to a viewing party for the Kentucky Derby.

Known as “the Greatest Two Minutes in Sports” and “the Run for the Roses,” the Kentucky Derby is one of the premier events in horse racing. The 1.25-mile race for 3-year-olds is the first leg of horse racing’s Triple Crown series. Inaugurated in 1875, the Kentucky Derby is the longest continually held sporting event in North America.

This year, race fans can watch live races at the Downs, then watch the Derby as their official kickoff to racing season. Races at Louisiana Downs will run through September primarily occurring Sunday-Tuesday until July. Beginning in July, race action will take place Mondays-Wednesdays until September. The September schedule will be Monday and Tuesday racing. Regular post time throughout will be 4:05 p.m. except for Memorial Day, August 30, and September 6. On those days, post time will be 3:35 p.m.

Special events during the season include a July 5 fireworks show in celebration of Independence Day and Wiener Dog Races on September 1 for Labor Day. Special race days include Opening Day, Preakness Day (May 17), Belmont Stakes Day (June 7), Independence Day Weekend (July 4 and 6), Louisiana Cup Day (August 30), and Super Derby Day (September 6).