Oaklawn is a historic horse racing track located in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The track has been operating for over a century, and is one of the oldest and most respected thoroughbred tracks in the United States. Oaklawn is home to the prestigious Arkansas Derby, an annual Grade I race for three-year-olds. In addition, the track hosts a wide variety of other races throughout the year.
Live Racing Schedule
Oaklawn offers both live and simulcast racing throughout the year. The live racing season typically runs from early January to mid-April. During the live racing season, the track hosts races on most days of the week, with the exception of Mondays and Tuesdays. On a typical day, there will be 9-10 races, with post time beginning at 1:05 p.m. CT.
Types of Races
Oaklawn offers a wide variety of racing events. The most common type of race is the allowance race, which is open to horses of all ages and experience levels. The track also offers stakes races for three-year-olds and up, as well as maiden races for horses running in their first race. In addition, Oaklawn hosts several claim races, which are open to horses that have been claimed in the past.
Purse Money
Oaklawn is known for its generous purses. The track typically offers a purse of at least $200,000 per race, and some of the more prestigious races can offer purses of up to $1 million. The purses are funded by the Arkansas Racing Commission, as well as the track’s owners and sponsors.
Notable Races
Oaklawn hosts a wide variety of notable races throughout the year. The most prestigious race is the Arkansas Derby, which is a Grade I race for three-year-olds. The track also hosts the Rebel Stakes, a Grade II race for three-year-olds; the Fantasy Stakes, a Grade II race for three-year-old fillies; and the Oaklawn Handicap, a Grade II race for three-year-olds and up. In addition, the track hosts several other stakes races throughout the year.
Jockeys and Trainers
Oaklawn is home to some of the best jockeys and trainers in the business. Notable jockeys include Ricardo Santana Jr., who has won two Kentucky Derbies and three Preakness Stakes; and Calvin Borel, who has won three Kentucky Derbies and four Preakness Stakes. Notable trainers include Steve Asmussen, who has won two Kentucky Derbies and two Preakness Stakes; and Bob Baffert, who has won five Kentucky Derbies and six Preakness Stakes.
Racing Facilities
Oaklawn offers a wide variety of facilities for both horse racing and equestrian events. The track has a one-mile dirt oval, as well as a seven-furlong turf course. In addition, the track features a grandstand, paddock, and stables for the horses. The track also features a variety of dining and shopping options, and a full-service casino.
Betting Options
Oaklawn offers a wide variety of betting options for horse racing fans. Fans can place their bets on the track, or via an online betting platform. The track offers both win and exotic bets, including quinellas, exactas, trifectas, superfectas, and daily doubles.
Safety Protocols
Oaklawn takes the safety of its horses and riders very seriously. The track has implemented a variety of safety protocols to ensure a safe and fair racing environment. These protocols include drug testing of horses, the use of outriders, and the presence of a veterinarian on the track.
Oaklawn Rewards Program
Oaklawn offers a rewards program for its patrons. Fans who sign up for the program can earn points for every dollar spent on bets and purchases. These points can then be redeemed for rewards, such as free admission, food and beverage discounts, and more.
Conclusion
Oaklawn is a historic horse racing track that has been operating for over a century. The track offers both live and simulcast racing throughout the year, with races taking place on most days of the week, excluding Mondays and Tuesdays. The track offers a wide variety of races, including allowance races, stake races, and claim races, as well as generous purses and rewards for its patrons. Oaklawn also has a variety of safety protocols in place to ensure a safe and fair racing experience.