Some of the top trainers, jockeys, and horses are gathering in New Orleans as Fair Grounds kicks off its 76-day meet, running through March 23. Despite smaller purses compared to Kentucky and other tracks, the meet attracts top talent, including Derby winners and Breeders’ Cup standouts like Mystik Dan, Thorpedo Anna, and Sierra Leone. Purses for key stakes races, such as the Lecomte and Risen Star, have been increased, totaling nearly $9 million for the stakes program. The turf course has improved, and notable trainers like Kenny McPeek, Steve Asmussen, and Brad Cox will compete alongside jockeys like Jose Ortiz. The meet opens Friday with two Louisiana-bred stakes featuring standout contenders Voila Magic and Hay Jude.