Baffert Establishing String at Oaklawn Park

For the upcoming Oaklawn Park meeting, Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert will maintain a stable division in Hot Springs, Ark., for the first time. The trainer has enjoyed tremendous success shipping horses to Oaklawn throughout his career and will now have horses based on the grounds.

Oaklawn will kick off its 2026-2027 live racing season Nov. 27, the day after Thanksgiving and the earliest opening day in track history. The Holiday Season runs through Jan. 10. Following a brief January break, the Classic Season begins Jan. 22 and continues through May 1.

Demand for stalls remains strong, with more than 2,300 horses submitted for consideration for approximately 1,500 available stalls. Stall allocations have been made to 111 trainers representing 18 states and two countries, bringing together a deep and accomplished roster of horsemen for the upcoming 65-day season.

"The continued strong demand for stalls reflects the strength of Oaklawn's racing program and the confidence horsemen have in racing here," said Oaklawn president Louis Cella. "With another outstanding group of trainers and horses coming to Hot Springs, along with a record stakes schedule and nearly $60 million in purses, we're looking forward to an exceptional season."

All of Oaklawn's top 10 trainers from the 2025-2026 season are set to return, led by Hall of Famer Steve Asmussen. Last season, Asmussen earned his record-extending 15th Oaklawn training title with 62 victories and also finished as the track's leading owner with 24 wins.

Oaklawn's stakes schedule features a record 61 stakes races worth $18.79 million, highlighted by the $1.5 million Arkansas Derby (G1), $1.5 million Apple Blossom Handicap (G1), $1.5 million Oaklawn Handicap (G2), $1.25 million Rebel Stakes (G2), and $1 million Fantasy Stakes (G2).

Two of Oaklawn's signature races for 3-year-olds will also have new dates this season. The Arkansas Derby moves from March 28 to April 10, while the Rebel Stakes moves from March 1 to March 13. The Arkansas Derby remains Oaklawn's final stop on the Road to the Kentucky Derby, offering 100 qualifying points to the winner.

See condition books, the stakes schedule, and additional information for horsemen.