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Originally Posted by oaklawnhogg

I really appreciate what OP does. The ownership could easily take the casino earnings and increase profits, but they put those resources into the racing side and it's paid off for them. I remember when Mr. Cella passed thinking the family may be less interested in the racing side, but that has not been the case at all --- purses have increased, making OP more attractive to some of the best connections in the country.

The place treats the customers very well. I'm by no means a high roller, but I get constant casino free play offers (not the piddly $10 offers you see at big casinos), free bets at the track, etc. I make it to 15-20 dates per year and the management and employees are super friendly and many of them actually know my name. Admission is free, Vic and Nancy started a really nice handicapping show that people seem to enjoy, the fields are full, the value is there, the Derby Trail runs through OP, and although the sun really doesn't ALWAYS shine there, the weather is usually pretty good. With the meet beginning later (1/25) and extending to Derby Weekend, the weather will be much better than we've experienced in the past.

The new hotel and casino upgrades will be great. We just passed a gambling / casino bill in Arkansas that will allow OP to go full blown casino. Previously they tip toed the laws--- casino closed daily, drinks are not free, slots are considered "games of skill"and table games do not use live bets (computer based only). Sports betting will be allowed in the new casino as well. IF history is any indication, Oaklawn will keep it classy and put resources back into the racing side.

As for a turf course, I'm torn. I enjoy turf racing, but I don't know that it would bring any more fans or any better horses than what we see now. I'm afraid it would take a total restructuring of the existing track to incorporate a turf track. OJC owns alot of property in the area, but I think they'd still have to acquire more land to do it right. So, a turf course would be nice, but I have a feeling its not high on the ownership's list of importance.

now they need to lower the takeout and put a live feed on the website. They should use Woodbines website and presentation as a guide. They should also have contests hosted on their website for the people that can't get there everyday, but would still like to play their races in contests. There are a lot of states that havent legalized online wagering, but can play in contests.