NASH scoring the Hot Springs Stakes at Oaklawn Park. (McCarlee Perkins/Coady Media)
Record Stall Applications Highlight Strong Demand for Oaklawn’s 2025–26 Racing Season
Oaklawn Park Release
HOT SPRINGS, Ark. – Oaklawn is preparing for its highly anticipated 2025–26 racing season, which opens with the Holiday Meet from Friday, December 12, through Sunday, January 4, followed by the Classic Meet from Friday, January 30, through Saturday, May 2. For the first time in its history, Oaklawn will implement a three-week January hiatus between the two premier meets, marking a new milestone in the track’s storied tradition.
Demand for stalls has reached unprecedented levels. A total of 130 trainers have submitted applications, including all last season’s top 10 trainers, with nearly 2,500 horses competing for just 1,470 available stalls. This overwhelming interest underscores Oaklawn’s reputation as one of the nation’s most competitive racing venues, ensuring fans will see the finest Thoroughbreds and leading connections from across the country. Stall applications will be finalized in early October.
“Oaklawn has always been committed to providing the very best racing experience for horsemen and fans alike,” said Louis A. Cella, President of Oaklawn. “The record demand for stalls this season underscores the strength of our racing program, and our continued investments in facilities reflect that commitment.” Offering over $60M in purses, Oaklawn continues to lead the nation in winter/spring daily purse distribution.
To meet this growing demand, Oaklawn is expanding its backstretch facilities with two new barns currently under construction: a 24-stall receiving/stakes barn and a 36-stall pony/outrider barn. Horses may begin arriving on Friday, October 24, with the track opening for training on Tuesday, October 28, giving horsemen ample preparation time ahead of what promises to be an action-packed season.
Horsemen can download condition books and other racing information by visiting oaklawn.com/racing/horsemen/.
