The rise of Sportsman’s Park, constructed on the southeastern edge of Hot Springs in the early 1890s, ignited an enthusiasm for thoroughbred horse racing in the area. After the anti-gambling laws were repealed in 1903, Essex Park was established in 1904. The owners of the Southern Club—Charles Dugan, Dan Stuart, and John Condon—then decided to create a racetrack in a location closer to downtown. The racetrack was named “Oaklawn” as it was built in the quaint community of Oaklawn, its name inspired by the majestic ancient oaks surrounding the area.
The new Oaklawn racetrack officially opened on February 15, 1905, featuring a 1,500-seat grandstand that quickly established it as a hub for horse racing enthusiasts in the region. The Arkansas State Fair and Livestock Show was held on Oaklawn’s grounds in 1906. By 1907, Oaklawn stood out as the last remaining horse racing venue in Hot Springs, affirming its importance in Arkansas's sports community.
A defining moment in Oaklawn’s legacy arrived in 1936, with the launch of the Arkansas Derby. Initially boasting a purse of $5,000, this race rapidly rose in stature, becoming a key event for three-year-old Thoroughbreds on their journey toward the prestigious Triple Crown. Over time, the Arkansas Derby has given rise to multiple Kentucky Derby champions, such as Sunny's Halo in 1983 and American Pharoah in 2015, who achieved the Triple Crown victory.
Oaklawn has also hosted other high-profile races, including the Apple Blossom Handicap, which debuted in 1958, and the Whitmore Stakes, originally known as the Hot Springs Purse since 1944. These events have drawn the finest talent, helping to solidify Oaklawn's reputation as a premier destination for racing.
Though Oaklawn is rooted in horse racing, it has continually adapted to meet the evolving needs of its visitors. Most recently, a remarkable $100 million expansion completed in 2021 marked a new chapter for Oaklawn. This transformation introduced a luxury hotel, enhanced gaming options, fine dining experiences, and a world-class spa, turning Oaklawn into a full-fledged resort destination. In 2019, the venue’s name was officially changed to Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort.
The resort's gaming options have expanded to include a full-service casino with slot machines, table games, and sports betting, offering guests a wide range of entertainment beyond horse racing.
Oaklawn's impact is felt far beyond just sports and entertainment. Over the years, Oaklawn served as a popular gathering spot for notable personalities and everyday fans alike. Baseball greats like Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, and Honus Wagner were known to frequent Oaklawn during their visits to Hot Springs for spring training.
In addition, Oaklawn has contributed to the rich tapestry of Hot Springs, a city that once gained fame for its thermal baths and was a refuge for gangsters in the early 20th century. The track's enduring legacy has significantly shaped the city's identity and economic health.
From its modest beginnings in 1904 to its present-day status as a premier tourist destination, Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort is a blend of history, tradition, and progress. With its dedication to excellence in horse racing, alongside its expansion into luxurious accommodations and gaming options, Oaklawn continues to be a beloved part of the Valley of the Vapors.
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