Oaklawn to race without spectators through March 30

Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs, Ark., will race spectator-free through March 30, the track announced overnight. The casino will close from Monday through March 30.

The voluntary move comes after two positive tests for coronavirus in Garland County, the county in which Oaklawn is located. The temporary closure of the casino includes its sports book.

Oaklawn raced spectator-free last Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

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Employees will continue to receive their paychecks from Oaklawn.

“As good community citizen, we felt this was the right thing to do for public health,” said Oaklawn president Lou Cella. “As for the nearly 1,000 team members we have on staff during this live racing season, including all year round and seasonal team members, we will continue to pay their salary and benefits during this two-week period.

“As for racing, it has always been the life blood of Oaklawn and we are happy to offer the horsemen an avenue for racing their horses in these challenging times.

“We continue to monitor everything on a day-to-day basis. We appreciate the patience of our guests, team members and horsemen.”

Oaklawn’s meet is scheduled to continue through May 2.