2014 Delta Downs Jackpot Slated for Nov. 22
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This year's $1 million Delta Downs Jackpot (gr. III) for 2-year-olds will be held at Delta Downs Racetrack Casino & Hotel Nov. 22, Boyd Gaming Corp. announced.
This year will mark the 12th anniversary of the lucrative event, which is contested at 1 1/16 miles on dirt. The race is the second richest in the country for 2-year-olds and has become a springboard to the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I). The Jackpot has produced nine starters for America's most historic race at Churchill Downs.
Last year's Delta Downs Jackpot, won by Rise Up, was part of a 34-race series that made up the second edition of the "Road to the Kentucky Derby" point system. In 2012 Goldencents used his Jackpot victory to bankroll $600,000 and earn 10 points toward his eventual starting position in the Derby. He went on to win the Santa Anita Derby (gr. I) and the Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile (gr. I).
The 2013 Delta Downs Jackpot Day program featured eight stakes races and more than $2.2 million in total purse money. The undercard was highlighted by the Delta Downs Princess (gr. III) for 2-year-old fillies, won by Tepin. Live and simulcast bettors wagered a Jackpot Day record $5,044,286, resulting in a 16% increase in handle from 2012.
"Our Jackpot Day program continues to grow by leaps and bounds," said Steve Kuypers, vice president and general manager of Delta Downs. "The overwhelming response we receive each year from both horsemen and the wagering public is unbelievable. Fans know quality when they see it and Jackpot Day offers the best in competition and wagering opportunities."