Evangeline to hold Cajun event

Evangeline Downs in Lafayette, La., will host a jockey competition next month to recognize the region's deep-rooted heritage of producing top riders.

Scheduled for July 12, the Cajun Jockey Challenge will be a four-race series made up of two sprints and two route races and will be based on a points system.

"We have already gotten commitments from Calvin Borel, Robby Albarado, Mark Guidry, Corey Lanerie, and Bryan Hernandez Jr.," said Evangeline's racing secretary, Jason Boulet.

"We plan on inviting nine or 10 riders of national prominence, as well as our leading rider through this Saturday, which looks like it will be Curt Bourque," said Boulet. "Our fans can also get into the act by voting on their favorite rider to determine the final berth."

Plans are also in the works to honor some of the region's retired riders, including Eddie Delahoussaye, Shane Sellers, Ronald Ardoin, Ray Sibille, and Randy Romero.

In addition, former rider Pat Day and his Racetrack Chaplaincy will be part of the day's activities, which include a brunch and an autograph session with riders both past and present.