Calvin Borel and Robby Albarado, who rode Street Sense (Street Cry [Ire]) and Curlin (Smart Strike) to victory in the Kentucky Derby (G1) and Preakness S. (G1), respectively, are set to renew their rivalry in the Inaugural Cajun Jockey Challenge at Evangeline Downs on Friday evening. The Cajun Jockey Challenge is a four-race contest featuring 12 accomplished riders who began their career in Louisiana and/or have strong "Cajun" roots.

The official line-up for the Challenge, which will comprise the 3RD, 5TH, 7TH and 9TH races, is Borel, Albarado, Mark Guidry, Curt Bourque, Gerard Melancon, Corey Lanerie, Larry Melancon, E. J. Perrodin, Tracy Hebert, Kerwin Clark, Steve Bourque and B. J. Hernandez Jr.

"Interest in the Challenge has been overwhelming," Evangeline Downs Racing Secretary Jason Boulet said. "All of these athletes have strong ties to this area, even though many no long compete here on a regular basis this is and always will be home to them. We, as their family, friends, and fans have followed them on their various paths to success in our great sport and are tremendously excited to welcome them all back home on this special night."

In addition to the regular prize money, first place as well as bragging rights is worth $5,000 in cash; second place earns $2,500; and third place receives $1,000. The points will be awarded as follows: five points for each win, three points for each runner-up finish, and one point for each third-place finish. In the case of any late scratches, one point will be awarded to the corresponding rider.

The festivities on Cajun Challenge Night will begin at noon (CDT) with a brunch hosted by retired Hall of Fame jockey Pat Day in the Silks Dining Room on the third floor of the facility. A portion of the proceeds from the event will benefit the Racetrack Chaplaincy fund. The brunch will also feature appearances by jockeys slated to compete in the Challenge as well as retired riders that are being honored. Tickets can be purchased for $75 each.

Following the brunch, from 3:30-5 p.m., fans will have an opportunity to meet the riders in an autograph signing session to be held at Mojo's, Evangeline Downs' sports bar located adjacent to the paddock. There will also be a welcome ceremony in the winner's circle introducing all of the participants prior to the night's 1ST race. Evangeline Downs is also issuing a souvenir program to commemorate the evening.

Long known as the birthplace of riders, Evangeline Downs and the surrounding area has been home to and/or the starting off point for dozens of jockeys who have succeeded at the highest levels of the sport. They include Hall of Fame inductees Eddie Delahoussaye, Kent Desormeaux, and Eric Guerin, as well as Borel, Albarado, Randy Romero, Shane Sellers, Ray Sibille and Ronald Ardoin.