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Harrah's Louisiana Downs Announces Restrictions For Jockeys Due To Covid-19
Policy set for riders leaving to take mounts at other racetracks as well as mandated quarantine and testing upon their return.

© Hodges Photography / Ann Switalski
Harrah's Louisiana Downs Announces Restrictions For Jockeys Due To Covid-19

BOSSIER CITY, LA—JULY 15, 2020—Harrah's Louisiana Downs announced an updated policy, effective Wednesday, July 15, regarding riders leaving and entering the racetrack.

The following restrictions have been implemented. If a rider accepts a mount at another racetrack, he or she must quarantine for a 14-day period and submit a negative COVID-19 test prior to returning to Harrah's Louisiana Downs. Jockeys who have ridden at other racetracks must self-quarantine for 14-days and present a negative COVID-19 test before gaining access to Harrah's Louisiana Downs. This policy will be in effect until further notice.

"After careful consideration, we felt it was necessary to implement these restrictions at Harrah's Louisiana Downs," said David Heitzmann, Director of Racing. "The health and safety of everyone involved must be protected; we join other racetracks in North America by enacting these measures."

Harrah's Louisiana Downs has continued to follow the policy set by Governor John Bel Edwards and protocols regarding COVID-19 on the OpenSafely.la.gov website. Prior to the opening of the meet, the jocks room was expanded to ensure proper social distancing. Additionally, patrons are required to enter via a specially marked designated entrance and temperature checks are conducted. Face masks are required and no more than three people are permitted in the saddling paddock.

The 64-day Harrah's Louisiana Downs Thoroughbred meet began on Saturday June 6. Live racing continues Saturday, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday through September 23.

About Harrah's Louisiana Downs
Located near Shreveport in Bossier City, Louisiana, Louisiana Downs opened in 1974 and was purchased by Caesars Entertainment in December, 2002. With annual Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing seasons, the track is committed to presenting the highest quality racing programs paired with its 150,000 square foot entertainment complex offering casino gambling, dining and plasma screen televisions for sports and simulcast racing.