Oaklawn’s 25/26 Season Recap

OAKLAWN CONTINUES UPWARD TREND WITH INCREASED HANDLE, DEEP FIELDS, MILESTONE ACHIEVEMENTS, AND ELITE COMPETITION IN 2025–2026 SEASON

Contact: Chris Ho Vice President of Marketing

cho@oaklawn.com, 501-623-4411 ext. 4201

Tuesday, May 5

For Immediate Release

HOT SPRINGS, AR (May 2026) – “Another remarkable season at Oaklawn,” said Louis A. Cella, President of Oaklawn. “From the level of competition on the track to the continued support from our fans and horsemen, this meet showcased the strength and momentum of our program. Each season builds on the last, and we’re proud to see Oaklawn continue to elevate the standard for racing in America.”

Oaklawn wrapped up its 2025–2026 live racing season Saturday with strong numbers across the board, highlighted by increased handle, competitive racing, and significant career milestones.

Oaklawn conducted 627 races over 62 race days, an increase from 621 races last season, while distributing $54,477,160 in purses. The daily average purse of $878,663 remained among the strongest in the country. With an average of just over 10 races per day, Oaklawn continued to deliver competitive racing, averaging 8.81 starters per race.

The average daily handle rose to $6,938,183, an increase over last year’s $6,737,332, generating a total meet handle of $430,167,353—surpassing last season’s total of $417,714,571. On-track handle reached $27,723,037, while average handle per race climbed to $686,072.

Participation remained strong, with 1,968 individual horses making at least one start, contributing to 5,527 total starts. A total of 85 jockeys and 196 trainers competed during the meet, with 522 individual horses recording at least one victory.

“Our team and horsemen continue to deliver a high-quality product day in and day out,” said Wayne Smith, General Manager of Oaklawn. “To see growth in handle and maintain this level of competition speaks to the strength of our racing program. The consistency we’ve built here is something we’re extremely proud of, and it continues to resonate with fans both on-track and across the country.”

2025–2026 Season Leaders

Steve Asmussen led all owners with 24 wins, while John Oxley topped all owners in purse earnings with $1,187,500.

Hall of Fame trainer Steve Asmussen secured another Oaklawn training title, winning 62 races and earning $5,338,521.

Ramon Vazquez captured the riding title with 76 wins and $4,284,296 in earnings.

A total of 12 trainers surpassed $1 million in purse earnings this season, combining for $25,431,520. Meanwhile, 18 jockeys exceeded the $1 million mark—up from 16 last year—earning a combined $44,742,408.

2025–2026 Season Milestones and Highlights

Steve Asmussen reached 1,000 career Oaklawn victories, further extending his legacy as the track’s all-time winningest trainer.
Ricardo Santana Jr. recorded 800 career Oaklawn wins.
Ramon Vazquez achieved 500 career Oaklawn victories during his riding title season.
Ron Moquett reached 400 career Oaklawn wins.
William “Jinks” Fires retires at Oaklawn as a Thoroughbred horse trainer for approximately 60 years, with a career starting in 1966.

“This season once again demonstrated the depth of talent and the significance of racing at Oaklawn,” Cella added. “From milestone achievements to continued growth in handle, Oaklawn remains committed to providing a premier experience for our fans and horsemen.”

ABOUT OAKLAWN

Founded in 1904 and located in Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas, Oaklawn is the world’s premier Thoroughbred racetrack and casino resort. Renowned for its vibrant racing atmosphere, world-class gaming, destination sportsbook, Forbes® Four-Star full-service spa, Forbes® recommended luxury hotel, and Forbes® recommended fine dining. Oaklawn continues to expand its offerings as the top tourism destination in the state. www.oaklawn.com | 1-800-OAKLAWN.