Carson Conrad has previously participated in races at Harrah's Hoosier Park, but Friday will mark a unique experience for the 19-year-old. As a fifth-generation horseman, he will make his debut at the Central Indiana oval on opening night.
“It’s awesome. Obviously, I’m excited because I’ve been waiting all winter. It’s different driving on the first night than just coming in during the middle of the year. A bunch of people are going to be watching, but you can’t let that affect you. You just have to pay attention and do your thing. I’m driving with some great drivers; we’re going to be back all together again and get started up,” said Conrad.
Conrad, the son of trainer/driver Charlie Conrad, achieved four out of his 25 victories in 2023 at Hoosier Park. Among drivers on the circuit, he secured a top 10 finish with 13 triumphs at the Indiana fairs and added eight more wins while competing in Kentucky. In a total of 242 starts, his horses placed in the top three in 88 races, earning a total of $214,808.
During the year 2022, Conrad participated in 121 races, winning five times and accumulating $75,842 in prize money. His career began in 2021 with 13 races, where he clinched his first victory at the Fayette County Fairgrounds in Connersville, Indiana.
Racing begins at 6:15 p.m. (EDT) on Friday at Hoosier Park.