2026.01.27 Southwest Stakes Weekend Rescheduled to February 5-8

Southwest Stakes Weekend Rescheduled to February 5–8

Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026

Hot Springs, AR. — Due to inclement weather and out of an abundance of caution for the safety of both equine and human athletes, Oaklawn has canceled live racing scheduled for this weekend, January 30 – February 1. All affected race days and associated events will be rescheduled for the following weekend, February 5–8, preserving one of the most significant racing weekends of the season.

The rescheduled weekend will offer the richest purse structure in North American racing, highlighted by championship-caliber fields.

The Southwest (G3) card, as originally drawn, will now be contested on Friday, February 6.

The American Beauty Stakes will move to Saturday, February 7, joining the Bayakoa (G3), which will also feature the highly anticipated 2026 debut of Nitrogen, the reigning Eclipse Award–winning three-year-old filly.

The originally scheduled Friday, January 30 card, will move to Thursday, February 5. Races originally planned for Sunday, February 1, will be moved and run on Sunday, February 8, an added race day.

Oaklawn’s premier horseplayer events will also shift with the new schedule. The Southwest Showdown horseplayer contest will move to Friday, February 6, while the Oaklawn Horseplayer Championship will take place on Saturday, February 7.

“We never take the decision to cancel racing lightly,” said Louis A. Cella, President of Oaklawn. “However, the safety of our horses, jockeys, and all participants is always our top priority. We appreciate the understanding and flexibility of our fans and horsemen as we work to deliver an outstanding weekend of championship racing and host the richest road to the Kentucky Derby.”

Additional information regarding promotions, on-track events, and adjusted schedules will be shared soon across Oaklawn’s website and social media platforms.

ABOUT OAKLAWN

Founded in 1904 and located in Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas, Oaklawn is one of the premier winter racing venues in North America. 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.