Louisiana Downs announces that Director of Racing and Racing Secretary Matt Crawford is stepping down.

BOSSIER CITY, LA–OCTOBER 8, 2024–Louisiana Downs announces the retirement of Director of Racing and Racing Secretary Matt Crawford, following a distinguished career in horse racing. Crawford, 67, will continue to assist the racing office through Book 1 of the Quarter Horse Meet, which begins on January 9, 2025.

A native of Texas, Crawford’s career in horseracing began as an assistant trainer, a role that helped him develop a deep understanding of the sport. His connection with Louisiana Downs dates back to 1980, when one of his trainees, Big Sturgeon, was named the 1987 Horse of the Meet—a significant milestone in his early career.

“With mixed emotions, I will be taking a step back from the racing office that has been a part of my life for 30 years as a racing official, racing secretary, and Director of Racing,” Crawford said. “I want to spend more time with my grandkids and wife after traveling most of those 30 years. It is time to take that step back and enjoy my family. I appreciate Kevin Preston for allowing me to represent racing at Louisiana Downs for three years. He has big goals to make the track a huge success.”

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About Louisiana Downs
Located near Shreveport in Bossier City, Louisiana, Louisiana Downs opened in 1974 and is now owned by Rubico Acquisition Corporation. 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.