Bush Tracks: Acadiana's Unsanctioned Horse Racing Past Revealed
For over a hundred years the unsanctioned bush tracks of Acadiana drew horse racing fans from near and far. Today it is easy to drive by the locations, which exhibit none of the equine excitement that once flourished at places like Tee Maurice, Cajun Downs, Broussard Downs, Linzay Downs, Carencro Raceway, the Quarter Pole.
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The Legendary Carencro Raceways: From Dirt to the Derby
On Friday nights we would make a supper—a free supper—and people would enter their horses. After Cajuns have a few beers, their horses are faster and the women are prettier.” The celebrated Don Stemman, owner of Carencro Raceways, 1968-1973.
The 440 Yard Journey: Cajun Downs, 1898-1998: The Foundation of Cajun Horse Culture
Barefoot and in your underwear. This is not how most people start an important journey...
Lâche pas la Patate: The Quarter Pole Training Center: The Remnant
A white sign with red letters tells you that you found the right place—the last operating bush track in the state...
Allons Chez Tee Maurice: Tee Maurice Race Track and Dance Hall, 1902-1983: Furlongs and Fais Do Dos
The rhythmic sound of hooves flying across the dirt. The cheers of racegoers. The melody of a fiddle and accordion lingering in the evening air. Feet shuffling to a two-step or Cajun waltz. The voices of families happily greeting their friends and neighbors. These were the sounds of the weekend at Tee Maurice.Tour curated by: Laura Hughes