Halstrom Joins Louisiana Downs as VP of Operations

Harrah's Louisiana Downs has named Eric Halstrom as its new vice president of operations, pending all regulatory approvals.

Mike Rich, senior vice president and general manager at Harrah's Louisiana Downs said Halstrom will take over the position vacated by Trent McIntosh, now the new general manager of Caesars Entertainment's Hoosier Park in Indianapolis.

Halstrom is a graduate of the University of Arizona Racetrack Industry Program and has a strong background in racetrack management. He served as the vice president of racing at Canterbury Park from 1997-2008 and then spent five years at Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots in New Orleans as the vice president and general manager of racing operations. Most recently, Halstrom has lent his expertise to the team at Prairie Meadows in Altoona, Iowa, as the assistant director of racing.

"Eric has a vast knowledge of the industry and is a passionate sports and racing fans," said Rich.

Halstrom is a native of Minneapolis, Minn., and the father of three children: Bailey, 22; Ben, 19 and Colin, 15. He is relocating to Bossier City and will work closely with David Heitzmann, who was recently promoted to director of racing at Harrah's Louisiana Downs. 

"I am looking forward to returning to Louisiana and this tremendous opportunity at Harrah's Louisiana Downs," said Halstrom. "There is a great team in place and very loyal horsemen as well as enthusiastic racing fans. I know the excitement is building for the grade 3, $300,0000 Super Derby, which is coming up on Sept. 2." 

Live racing will be conducted Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday with a 3:15 p.m. (CDT) post time through Sept. 26.