Evangeline Downs track report

CARENCRO, La. - Officials at Evangeline Downs have announced plans to honor the armed services on Saturday, one of the biggest days of the season.

Eleven of the 12 races on Saturday's card will recognize branches of the armed services that have ties to the local community. The expanded program will also feature the 39th running of the $100,000-guaranteed D.S. "Shine" Young Memorial Futurity.

Assistant racing secretary Charles L. Moreau, an eight-year veteran of military service, approached management with the idea and has been the catalyst behind its implementation.

"I wanted to take a low-key approach to honor members of our armed services, both active and retired," Moreau said. "My hope is that people will remember those who served our country and the memories of those who served but did not return home.

"Many of our staff members here at the track have family actively serving, and this is just a token way for us to show our gratitude and say thank you."

Members of the armed services will receive free admission Saturday by showing their military identification. Spouses and dependents are invited as guests of military personnel, active or discharged, with proper identification. Veterans are encouraged to wear or display campaign caps or other personal attire.