Oaklawn’s 2025 thoroughbred racing season kicked off with a bang, showcasing robust attendance, record-breaking betting, and remarkable on-track achievements, highlighted by an outstanding opening weekend. Over three days, total attendance reached 36,750, with 15,000 fans attending Friday and 19,000 on Saturday, both surpassing the previous year’s opening weekend numbers of 13,000 on Friday and 15,500 on Saturday. Sunday’s crowd totaled 2,750 attendees.
The betting action was just as strong, fueled by competitive races averaging more than 10 horses each. Oaklawn recorded its highest cumulative opening weekend betting handle since December racing began, nearing $21 million wagered. For context, the last opening weekend from Friday to Sunday during the 2022-2023 season saw about $15.5 million wagered. Sunday’s betting alone increased by 37% compared to the previous year’s opening Sunday (December 11, 2022).
Among fans, both new and continuing wagers have gained popularity, including:
– Early Pick 5: Average handle $240,812 with an average payout of $13,522.40
– Late Pick 5: Average handle $277,455.67 with payouts averaging $19,390.48
– Late Pick 4: Average handle $197,469.33 with payouts averaging $2,827.23
– NEW – $3 Get Out Pick 3 (15% takeout reduction): Average handle $111,544 with payouts around $4,840
– NEW – $5 Late Daily Double (15% less takeout): Average handle $115,465.67 and payouts averaging $924.83
– Return of Classix Pick 6 with a $45,113 Triple Carryover scheduled for Friday, December 19th.
The weekend also celebrated a significant milestone for the Oaklawn community. Forty jockeys competed, with 15 securing wins; top performers were Ramon Vazquez and Cristian Torres, each claiming five victories. A total of 103 trainers entered horses, with 23 managing wins, led by Mark Casse and Kenny McPeek, each with three wins expected. Participation by owners was strong, with 241 owners involved and 28 winning, spearheaded by Tom Durant and John Hallman with two wins apiece.
A historic moment arrived on Friday when John Ed Anthony earned his 300th career win at Oaklawn. His first victory here dates back to February 16, 1972. Anthony is Oaklawn’s all-time leading principal owner since February 26, 2022, and was inducted into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame in 2001. As the force behind Loblolly Stables and then Shortleaf Stables, Anthony has been a cornerstone of Oaklawn’s horse racing heritage for over five decades.
On Saturday, the excitement extended beyond the races to a special promotion featuring Oaklawn’s well-loved corned beef sandwich, which saw about 6,000 sold, adding to the vibrant atmosphere across the venue.
Luis A. Serra, Oaklawn’s President, expressed enthusiasm about the opening weekend’s energy and engagement: “From record-breaking wagers to historic milestones and strong participation, this weekend sets a promising tone for what could be a remarkable season. Our team is dedicated to offering a top-notch racing experience, and the excitement seen this weekend is just the beginning.”
The 2025 Oaklawn racing season resumes Friday, building anticipation for memorable moments at one of the nation’s most historic racetracks.
—
Fan Take: This impressive opening weekend is a thrilling signal for horse racing fans, highlighting renewed interest and growing excitement in the sport. With record attendance and betting momentum, Oaklawn is poised to lead the charge in elevating thoroughbred racing’s popularity and fan engagement in 2025 and beyond.
