Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs, Ark., offers a low takeout show pool wager for on-track fans, with a 10% takeout compared to the 17% off-track. This has proven popular with fans, especially families, young people, and new racing fans, resulting in higher show pool payouts for those who attend in person. Through the first 38 days of the 2024-25 meeting, on-track handle at Oaklawn reached $14,322,812, with the show pool accounting for $2,773,637.
The show pool at Oaklawn is particularly popular on big race days, with significant amounts wagered on-track during events like the Rebel Stakes and the Azeri Stakes. The track’s focus on providing affordable entertainment for fans has been successful in attracting a more novice crowd and encouraging them to engage with the sport through simpler wagers like the show pool. Oaklawn’s president, Louis Cella, emphasizes the importance of fan-friendly initiatives like low concession prices and the show bet bonus.
Oaklawn’s approach to marketing horse racing as affordable entertainment has been successful in growing the sport in Arkansas and attracting a younger demographic of fans. By rewarding on-track fans with lower takeout and higher show pool payouts, Oaklawn has seen an increase in attendance and engagement with the sport. This strategy of focusing on the entertainment value of horse racing and providing a fun, accessible experience for families has proven effective in developing a loyal fan base.
