view raw text
NEW ORLEANS WINTER PLANS Manager Eddy Outlines Ambitious Program for Fair Grounds Many Improvements Made. SARAOGA. N. Y"., August 15. General manager Robert S. Kddy, Jr., of the Rusiness Mens Racing Association of New Orleans, who lias been here for several days in tlie interest of next winters racing at the Fair Grounds, is enthusiastic over tin; prospects for a grand meeting at tlie popular Crescent City course during tlie early days of 10211. "I am greatly encouraged over the outlook foe next winter," said Mr. Kddy. "Kvcry owner to whom I have spoken and made known our liberal purse policy lias voiced approval and assured me of willingness to co-operate by sending some of his better representatives to engage in our racing. ".Many have already made, or desire; to make stall reservation, but this is a matter that has to go through in routine style. Stall assignments are in charge of our track superintendent. Kach ap-lication will be given consideration without discrimination, and I believe there will be enough space to accommodate all the owners that make application for stall space. "In addition to the stakes we will offer, we have now in contemplation a revival of the Crescent City Derby, with its pristine glory and interest. Tlie added money to this will be at least ; 0,000 and if we have assurances that some of the crack three-year-olds will engage in it, we will, raise the prize accordingly. Some might argue against the running of a Derby so early in the year, but this prejudice can be overcome by making the distance of the race a mile and an eighth. Many three-year-olds engage at this distance during the winter and have older horses to compete with. "Since the close of racing last winter tlie Fair Grounds has undergone a complete rejuvenation. Now everything is modernized and improved to a state where it will no longer be recognized as tlie Fair Grounds of old. "Kvcry stall at the track has received attention. The old flooring lias been dug up and replaced by new river sand and a liberal application of disinfectant. From twelve to sixteen inches of now dirt was put into each stall. "The entire infield has been plowed and scraped and is now sightly and as level as a billiard table. UP-TO-DATE DRAINAGE INSTALLED. "Rroad ditches have been installed on both sides of the track and a miniature canal dug right through the center field, connecting with the aqueduct which goes under tlie track on the back stretch. Concrete walls and arches will show this drain off. The gigantic pump that will be installed before the meeting opens will assist in draining the course to an extent where the severest rainstorm will show but the s-liglitest trace. "At present the track proper is at an elevation of nearly two feet above the level of the other ground. This will he of great aid in tlie draining plan. "The grandstand has come in for vast attention and at present then; is a big force at work in the pavillion tearing out partitions and offices and making the ground floor spacious and unobstructed. This construction is witli a view to the use of the pavilion as a convention hall, when necessary. "A modern and ornate club building will also be erected near the former entrance before the racing resumes. This building will afford an exclusive rendezvous for tlie social element and their guests. "Rleachcrs will be eroded to the left of the paddock. From this vantage point owners and trainers will have opportunity to witness the racing. It will also assist in providing space on big days for many visitors to view the sport in comfort. "We are also intending to change the approaches to the track. The main entrance is being altered with a view to affording better accommodation for our patrons. "landscape gaidemrs are now going over the ground thoroughly and planning extensively with a view to the beautificatioii of the plant in its entirety. Flower beds in profusion will bo installed and gravel paths will give the place a parklike appearance."
