Oaklawn To Stay Open For Rebel Day Amid Coronavirus Concerns

Oaklawn Park is not afraid of the Coronavirus. The spread of the coronavirus has had a major impact in sports across the globe. Particularly in the United States. Since Wednesday, the NBA has suspended the remainder of its season due to a player testing positive for the virus. The NCAA conference tournaments and the NCAA tournament itself has been cancelled, and MLB has canceled Spring Training and pushed back the start of its season. What else will get cancelled? Is the 2020 Kentucky Derby still on?

Despite the recent rash of cancellations, Oaklawn Park announced Thursday morning it intends to race on.

Races scheduled from Thursday to Saturday at the Hot Springs, Ark., track will go on as planned.

“Our Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort currently intends to remain open during our regular operating hours. All scheduled events are continuing as planned at this time,” a statement from the track reads.

Now Oaklawn, Coronavirus, and Horse Racing

However, Oaklawn is “actively taking the appropriate preventative measures” to prevent coronavirus’ spread and “expanded many of our sanitary procedures” for on-site patrons. Unless there is a mandatory curfew, Oaklawn will be open.

They include:

* Providing more hand sanitizer dispensers across our property.

* Increasing the frequency of all of cleaning activities in racing and casino areas, including, restrooms, restaurants, bars, entrance/exit doors, etc.

* Ensuring our protocols for cleaning and sanitation meet or exceed the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and that of local and state health authorities.

In addition to Oaklawn, other tracks have announced plans to continue races as scheduled with increased sanitary standards. However, Churchill Downs officials said they will continue to monitor how other sports leagues handle coronavirus in the weeks leading up to the first Saturday in May. As of today there is still a chance. Updated: The Kentucky Derby has been moved to Saturday, September 5th, 2020.

Due to a policy implemented by California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who called for gatherings of 250 or more people to be canceled. The Stronach Group. Which owns Santa Anita Park and Golden Gate Fields in California said that the two venues will race on. However, will do so without the general public on site. Can you imagine a Derby without fans?