Horse Racing Gets Under Way Saturday At Will Rogers Downs

NewsOn6.com

CLAREMORE, OK. – And they're off! Live horse racing gets under way at 1:35 p.m. Saturday at Cherokee Casino Will Rogers Downs.

"This is always an exciting time for us. It's been a long winter looking at the calendar in anticipation for this weekend," said Kelly Cathey, racing secretary for Cherokee Casino Will Rogers Downs.

"Our staff has worked really hard to make sure we can provide high quality racing that will entertain our guests."

Saturday's debut of the spring meet boasts 10 races with a combined purse of more than $150,000. Fans will see old and new favorites.

"This is my first year here. I'm just getting a feel for the track, but I'm ready. I'm a really competitive person, so I'm looking forward to racing," said Travis Wales, a jockey from Selah, Washington.

"My goal is no different than anyone else's. I came here to win."

The month-and-a-half-long meet brings thousands of horsemen and spectators to the area, helping out local business, Cathey said.  

Country performer Eddy Raven will be on hand to welcome the races. He will kick off the meet by singing the national anthem at 1:05 p.m., just prior to post time. Raven will be the first national entertainer to perform the national anthem prior to race day kick off at Will Rogers Downs.

Following Saturday's debut, live racing's 32-day spring schedule resumes Monday and Tuesday, with post time at 1:35 p.m. for both days.

Cherokee Casino Will Rogers Downs is located three miles east of Claremore on Highway 20. For more information, visit www.cherokeestarrewards.com, or call (918) 283-8800.