Oaklawn Park will race without spectators due to coronavirus

HOT SPRINGS, Ark. - Oaklawn Park will not allow spectators ontrack this weekend in the wake of the international coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the track announced Thursday night. The policy will be in place for at least Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The races, which include three stakes Saturday, will go on as scheduled.

Oaklawn joins a growing list of racetracks suspending ontrack spectators. Officials said in the press release they will be working closely with government officials to determine when the racing side of operations can be reopened to the public. Oaklawn will allow licensed owners, trainers, and stable staff access to certain areas of the grandstand this weekend, according to a notice from the racing office. The track is requesting licenses be visible at all times.

The casino will remain open at Oaklawn.

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The Saturday card is one of the biggest of the meet. It features the Grade 2, $1 million Rebel Stakes, which is a points race for the Kentucky Derby. The field includes the undefeated Nadal and Grade 1 winner Basin.

Also on the program is the Grade 2, $350,000 Azeri and $350,000 Essex Handicap. Oaklawn’s infield was scheduled to be open, weather permitting, but there is rain in the forecast for Saturday. Last year, when Oaklawn ran two divisions of the Rebel, the attendance ontrack was an estimated 45,500.

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“We represent the Sport of Kings,” Oaklawn president Lou Cella said in the press release. “As such, we will act in a similar fashion to other sports organizations throughout the country. The health and safety of our fans, horsemen, and team members have always been and will continue to be our top priorities.”

Training activity will continue as scheduled Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, according to a notice from the racing office at Oaklawn.

The Dawn at Oaklawn program for Saturday morning has been canceled, as have barn tours and infield activities.

Patrons who purchased tickets for Friday, Saturday, or Sunday will receive a full refund on those purchases, according to the press release.

Sam Houston suspends simulcasting, racing will continue

Earlier on Thursday night, Sam Houston Race Park in Houston announced it will be suspending simulcast operations at the recommendation of a Harris County judge suggesting all public gatherings of 250 or more people be called off due to concerns over the spread of the coronavirus.

Sam Houston will continue to race live, but without spectators, the track announced late Thursday. The only individuals allowed on the grounds will be those licensed by the Texas Racing Commission.

The track hopes to resume normal simulcast operations in the near future.