Oaklawn raises purses $10K daily

Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs, Ark., has increased overnight purses $10,000 a day in a move that began with Thursday's 10-race card. Purses will now average approximately about $310,000 a program, according to David Longinotti, the track's assistant general manager of racing.

The distribution level is a record for the track. The increase is attributed in part to the success of Oaklawn's expanded gaming center, which opened this winter. In addition, handle and attendance levels are contributing to the increase, which comes at the halfway point of the meet.

"On the days when we've had good weather, our numbers have been strong," said Longinotti.

The increase boosts the purses for all maiden special weight and allowance races by $2,000 each. Purses for claiming races have been upped $500 each. Oaklawn's season continues through April 10.