Horse racing season at Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs, Arkansas typically runs from January through April. The track hosts live racing on Tuesdays through Saturdays, with first post time varying depending on the day of the week. The highlight of the season is the Arkansas Derby, which is held in early April and is a major prep race for the Kentucky Derby. In addition to live racing, Oaklawn also offers simulcast wagering on races from around the country.
When and Where to Catch the Thrills of Horse Racing in Hot Springs, Arkansas
Nestled amidst the picturesque Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs, Arkansas, is renowned for its natural thermal waters and vibrant horse racing scene. Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, the state’s premier racing destination, hosts a thrilling season of live racing every year. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the dates, events, and amenities you can enjoy during your visit:
Oaklawn Racing Festival and Spa
The Oaklawn Racing Festival, a prestigious event in the racing calendar, takes place annually in April. The festival features the Arkansas Derby, one of the most prestigious prep races for the Kentucky Derby. You can witness the excitement unfold as top jockeys and horses compete for the coveted prizes.
While attending the races, take advantage of the luxurious amenities at Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort. Indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, relax in comfortable seating, and savor fine dining at the Racetrack Restaurant. The resort offers a seamless blend of racing thrills and relaxation.
2023 Live Racing Season
Mark your calendars for an electrifying horse racing season at Oaklawn Park in 2023:
- Opening Day: Friday, January 27
- Live Racing Dates: January 27 – April 9
- Dark Days: Mondays and Tuesdays
- Post Time: 1:00 PM CST
Admission and Amenities
General admission to Oaklawn Park is $5, while premium seating options are also available for purchase. The resort offers a range of amenities, including:
- Comfortable grandstand seating
- Luxury suites with private balconies
- Extensive dining options, from casual to fine dining
- Modern simulcast wagering facilities
Whether you’re a seasoned racing enthusiast or a first-time visitor, Hot Springs, Arkansas, offers an unforgettable horse racing experience. Immerse yourself in the excitement of live racing, indulge in luxurious amenities, and savor the vibrant atmosphere of Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort.
| Oaklawn Racing Season and Admission | ||
|---|---|---|
| Event | Dates | Admission |
| Live Racing | January 27 – April 9 | $5 |
| Arkansas Derby | April 15 | Varies (reservations required) |
Spring Meet at Oaklawn Park
Oaklawn Park, located in Hot Springs, Arkansas, is one of the premier horse racing tracks in the United States. The track hosts two racing meets each year, the Spring Meet and the Racing Festival of the South in the fall.
The Spring Meet typically begins in late March and runs through early May. The meet features a number of stakes races, including the Grade II Arkansas Derby, which is a major prep race for the Kentucky Derby.
In addition to the stakes races, the Spring Meet also offers a variety of other races, including allowance races, claiming races, and maiden races. There is also a simulcast center where fans can bet on races from other tracks around the country.
Here is a list of the key dates for the 2023 Spring Meet:
- Opening Day: Friday, March 31
- Arkansas Derby Day: Saturday, April 15
- Closing Day: Saturday, May 6
The following table provides a summary of the stakes races that will be run during the 2023 Spring Meet:
| Date | Race | Grade | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| March 31 | Razorback Handicap | III | 1 1/16 miles |
| April 1 | Southwest Stakes | III | 1 1/16 miles |
| April 8 | Honeybee Stakes | III | 1 1/16 miles |
| April 15 | Arkansas Derby | II | 1 1/8 miles |
| April 29 | Oaklawn Handicap | II | 1 1/8 miles |
Hot Springs Racing Season
Horse racing is a popular sport in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and the city is home to one of the oldest racetracks in the country, Oaklawn Park.
- The racing season at Oaklawn Park typically runs from late January to early May.
- During the season, races are held six days a week, with the exception of Mondays.
- Post times vary depending on the day of the week, but generally speaking, races start around 1:00 PM.
In addition to the regular racing season, Oaklawn Park also hosts a number of special events throughout the year, including the Arkansas Derby and the Rebel Stakes.
| Event | Dates |
|---|---|
| Arkansas Derby | April 1-2 |
| Rebel Stakes | February 25 |
Arkansas Derby at Oaklawn Park
The Arkansas Derby is one of the most prestigious horse races in the United States. It is held annually at Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs, Arkansas.
- The race is open to three-year-old colts and fillies.
- It is run at a distance of 1 1/8 miles on the dirt track.
- The purse for the race is $1 million.
The Arkansas Derby is a major prep race for the Kentucky Derby. In recent years, several horses have won the Arkansas Derby and gone on to win the Kentucky Derby, including Smarty Jones (2004), Curlin (2007), and American Pharoah (2015).
Schedule
| Date | Time | Event |
|---|---|---|
| April 15, 2023 | TBD | Arkansas Derby Day |
Well folks, that’s it for our little trip to the world of horse racing in Hot Springs, Arkansas. I hope you found this article informative and entertaining. If you’re looking to catch some exciting races and soak up the vibrant atmosphere, make sure to plan a visit to the historic Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort. And don’t forget to check back later for more updates and insights into the fascinating world of racing. Until then, keep your eyes on the prize!