Oaklawn canceled their Saturday program because of below-freezing
temperatures. Temperatures were lingering around 25 degrees at 10 a.m. (CST) and
not supposed to get above freezing until later in afternoon.
Meanwhile, the Arkansas Racing Commission unanimously approved a request by
Oaklawn to add two Wednesdays to its 2015 racing season — March 18 and March 25
— to compensate for days lost to weather.
“We are simply trying to make the best of a bad situation,” Oaklawn General
Manager Eric Jackson said. “The last two weeks have been hard on everyone —
racing fans, horsemen, jockeys, employees, Oaklawn itself — as well as local
businesses. The two additional days means we will essentially be racing five
days a week for the last month of our season. That is not ideal, but under these
stressful circumstances, we believe it is the best option.”
Oaklawn management presented the additional dates idea to horsemen Saturday
morning, and after their receiving full support, made the request to the Racing
Commission at an already scheduled meeting. Management and horsemen also agreed
to bring back the $75,000 Downthedustyroad on March 6 and the $75,000 Nodouble
on March 8. The two Arkansas-bred stakes were scheduled to be run Saturday.
Steve Hobby, a top trainer at Oaklawn who has been meeting with track
officials daily this past week, said the horsemen recognize what Oaklawn is
trying to do.
“They’ve been on the track night and day for almost two weeks now, trying to
save racing,” Hobby said. “Offering to come up with two additional race days is
really appreciated, and reflects on the great working relationship horsemen have
with Oaklawn management.”
The two additional days will result in a 53-day race season if there are no
additional cancellations.
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