Oaklawn Park Adds New Eclipse Stakes to Schedule
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Photo: Coady Photo/Renee Torbit
Racing at Oaklawn Park
Oaklawn Park has adjusted its stakes schedule after losing four cards earlier this year to winter weather.
The $200,000 Lake Ouachita Stakes for older horses at 1 1/16 miles, originally May 3, has been moved to May 5. Oaklawn has added the $175,000 Eclipse Stakes for older horses at six furlongs April 7.
Oaklawn's 2023-24 season had been scheduled to end May 4, with April 7 originally a dark day. The two racing dates (April 7 and May 5) were added to help offset cancellations Jan. 14 and Jan. 19-21.
Nominations to the Eclipse close March 29. The race is open to horses that haven't won a stakes race in 2023-24. First post April 7 is 12:30 p.m. CDT. Gates open at 11 a.m.
The Eclipse Stakes will be run one day before a well-publicized total solar eclipse. Because it will be visible in Hot Springs, Ark., Oaklawn is hosting an Eclipse Festival April 4-8 with a special infield event April 8. Admission to the event is $20, with children under 12 free. The event will feature live music, concessions, and attractions for children.