Glenn Deloussay, a seasoned horseman from Louisiana and a longtime member of the Louisiana HBPA board, was deeply saddened this week upon learning about the passing of his friend and former employee, Jason Fowle. At 53 years old, Fowle was set to succeed Deloussay upon his retirement in 2024 and had already secured two stakes victories in his inaugural year as a trainer.
“This marks the closing of a chapter that was just beginning to flourish,” Deloussay reflected. “Our story spans three generations—my father, a highly accomplished trainer in Louisiana, myself, and Jason. Though not related by blood, I always considered him like a son.”
According to reports from klfy.com, Fowle was reported missing to the Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office on February 8. His body was discovered the following morning near a campground in neighboring St. Landry Parish. There were no indications of foul play, although Deloussay mentioned the death would remain under suspicion pending autopsy results.
“This situation doesn’t make sense, nor does it fit the young man I knew,” Deloussay said mournfully. “He didn’t drink, do drugs, chase women, or gamble. He cared about three things: his family, his horses, and his faith in God.”
“He was an outstanding individual—trustworthy and reliable. No words can fully capture the kind of person he was. He lived his dream, his best life, training horses alongside people who loved him and shared his passion.”
From 1990 to 2009, Fowle competed as a jockey in 692 races, winning 27 times, according to Equibase. However, he was most renowned for his unique talent to bond with horses that others struggled to manage. He worked alongside Deloussay for more than 30 years before taking over training duties at the end of 2024.
At the time of his passing, Fowle was training 20 thoroughbreds at the Copper Crown Training Center in Opelousas, Louisiana. He had recently returned to racing at the fairgrounds on February 6. Since becoming an independent trainer late in 2024, he had guided nine winners from 123 starters, earning over $350,000, per Equibase.
Two of those victories were stakes wins by the Louisiana-bred Gangster Flash, who remains undefeated with a flawless 3-for-3 record. Deloussay named the 2023 foal, out of Instagrand, on behalf of Fowle’s owner Alfredo Romito. The filly won the DS Shine Young Futurity at Evangeline Downs in only her second race. Deloussay described that event as “central Louisiana’s version of the Kentucky Derby.”
“I was incredibly proud to watch him win that race in his first year as a trainer,” Deloussay shared. “This is a rural market filled with hardworking, blue-collar folks. Jason has done an amazing job, continuing the legacy we built together for many years. I couldn’t be happier for his success.”
Deloussay has since transferred 20 horses previously under Fowle’s care to other trainers across Louisiana, ensuring they remain well looked after throughout this transition. He has also helped all of Fowle’s former employees find new employment.
“Jason was truly one of a kind, irreplaceable,” Deloussay emphasized.
A memorial service for family and friends is scheduled for Saturday in Carencro.
Fan Take:
This news is a profound loss for the horse racing community, highlighting the impact one dedicated individual can have on a sport rooted in passion and tradition. Jason Fowle’s story is a reminder of the deeply personal connections behind the scenes, and his untimely death may inspire the industry to honor and support the people who are the heart and soul of racing.
