Oaklawn Park to Further Increase Purses

Paulick Report

For the second time this race meet, Oaklawn will increase all overnight purses between $1,000 and $3,000 starting Thursday, Feb. 26. Maiden Special Weights and Allowances races are increasing by $3,000, bringing maidens to $64,000 and Allowances to as high as $69,000.

Oaklawn, which has among the highest average field size in the country currently with 9.6 horses per race through Feb. 21, has enjoyed increases in off-track wagering as well as strong business in its newly expanded game room despite losing four race days to winter weather. A meet high 24,000 turned out for the races Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14

“Despite some unfortunate winter weather, I wouldn’t trade places with any other racing secretary right now,” said Racing Secretary Pat Pope. “We appreciate the support of our horsemen and the cooperation they showed in having to reschedule such an important 3-year-old prep race as the Southwest Stakes. I’m really excited about our racing program heading into the later part of the season.”

The 2015 Oaklawn season continues through Saturday, April 11 when it culminates with the $1 million Arkansas Derby (G1).