Richie,

I have been a supporter of the Fairgrounds for many years and look forward to the return of racing to New Orleans. However, I don't share your enthusiasm that this will be a very good meet. Recently I was in NO and what I saw left me feeling that the city was a long, long way from being back to pre hurricane. I think that many of the trainers who raced elsewhere last winter are not ready to return just yet. I hope you're right and we have a topnotch meet with some great grass racing and exciting young horses but I have my doubts.