Brad Cox, a two-time Eclipse Award-winning trainer of the year, has left an indelible mark on the Fair Grounds. From 2016 to 2020, he achieved a remarkable feat by winning four consecutive leading trainer titles. His success continued last season as he won the 2024 Louisiana Derby with Catching Freedom. Moreover, he swept the Road to the Kentucky Oaks series with Alpine Princess in the Untapable Stakes, West Omaha in the Silverbulletday, and Tarifa in the Rachel Alexandra and Fair Grounds Oaks. Cox's expertise and determination make him a force to be reckoned with at the Fair Grounds.
His ability to train horses to perform at their best is truly remarkable. Each of his victories showcases his strategic approach and understanding of the racetrack. Cox's consistent performance over the years has earned him a well-deserved reputation as one of the top trainers in the industry.
Cherie Devaux is one of the up-and-coming trainers in the sport, and her stable is steadily gaining notoriety. This year, she achieved a significant milestone by winning her first Breeders Cup title with More Than Looks in the Mile. Her horse Brilliant Berti is also set to make waves at the meet. Brilliant Berti won the Grade III Bryan Station at Keeneland earlier this year, adding to Devaux's growing list of achievements. Her dedication and talent are evident in the success of her stable.
Devaux's rise to prominence is a testament to her hard work and passion for the sport. She is constantly striving to improve and bring out the best in her horses. With her continued success, she is sure to become a household name in the racing world.
Steve Asmussen, the sport's winningest all-time trainer, has been a mainstay on the Fair Grounds back side for decades. Since 2000, he has won an impressive 10 leading trainer titles, more than any other trainer. His presence at the Fair Grounds is always a sign of quality and competitiveness. Asmussen will once again be a factor in both the Fair Grounds Oaks and Louisiana Derby trails.
His extensive experience and knowledge of the sport give him a distinct advantage. Asmussen's ability to train horses to win in various conditions is unparalleled. His success at the Fair Grounds is a testament to his skill and dedication.
The Kentucky native Ken McPeek made a significant move a few years ago when he shifted his stable from Florida to New Orleans and has become a regular at the Fair Grounds ever since. Last year, he achieved a remarkable feat by winning the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks with Mystik Dan and Thorpedo Anna. These horses went on to win the Breeders Cup Distaff last month, further solidifying McPeek's reputation as a top trainer.
McPeek's ability to train horses to perform at the highest level is evident in his consistent success. His presence at the Fair Grounds adds to the excitement and competitiveness of the racing season.
Shane Wilson, a Louisiana native, had a breakthrough last year when he won the meet's training title for the first time with 50 victories and more than $2 million in earnings. His journey to success was not easy, as he started as a former assistant for trainer Sam David and later became the primary conditioner for leading owner Evelyn Benoit's stable. Wilson's hard work and determination paid off, and he is now one of the leading trainers at the Fair Grounds.
His local knowledge and understanding of the racetrack give him an edge. Wilson's success is a source of inspiration for aspiring trainers and a testament to the fact that with hard work and perseverance, anyone can achieve their dreams.