After the purchase, Boyd Gaming made over $120 million in capital improvements. Shortly thereafter, it was sold for over $100 million to Boyd Gaming after a law was passed allowing for slot machines at Delta Downs. In the 1990s, the track was bought by developer Shawn Scott for $10 million. Delta Downs in Vinton would hold both Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred race meetings, some years in a mixed format. Berwick was primarily looking for a recognized facility to run Quarter Horses, having earlier held races on his farm in St. The track opened in September 1973, under the direction of Lee Berwick. Delta Downsģ0☁1′38″N 93☃7′23″W / 30.194°N 93.623°W / 30.194 -93.623ĭelta Downs Racetrack, Casino and Hotel is an American thoroughbred and quarter horse racetrack in Calcasieu Parish, near Vinton, Louisiana in the southwest portion of the state. For the cattle station in Queensland, see Delta Downs Station.

He would later gain diplomas from the John Brooks Broadcasting School and the Oklahoma Auctioneering Academy.īefore joining Remington Park as a backup track announcer in 1995, Stevens worked in radio and spent several years with the Hertz Corporation as a group sales representative.ĭon's exciting race calls, combined with his handicapping prowess, make an enjoyable night at the races a sure thing for all in attendance.This article is about the racetrack in Louisiana. Although the historic racetrack no longer exists, Stevens' love for the sport runs deeper and stronger than ever.Īfter graduating high school in 1981, Stevens' attended Art Instruction Schools in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and earned a diploma in commercial art. Stevens' enthusiasm for racing dates back to 1977, when he attended his first live horse race at Longacres in Renton, Washington.

Delta Downs' Television Host And Racing Analystįrom high atop Delta Downs Racetrack Casino and Hotel, veteran track announcer Don Stevens brings the racing action to life for fans watching via simulcast from coast to coast, and for those folks attending the races live in Vinton, Louisiana each evening.

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