Oaklawn

cal828 · #1 01-17-2008, 07:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Danzig

long article in the paper today about the track surface. there were quite a few complaints about the surface last year, and they really put a lot of work into it. made sure that the mix was proper (x amount of sand, clay, etc) and test it constantly. been a project since the season ended last april. they said the track is the same mix as churchill and belmont. all three incredibly similar according to the article.
they also said that some of the problems were caused by trying to keep the track open on some days that it probably shouldn't have been, and that it will not happen this year. unlike some tracks, they do not spray chemicals on the surface here to combat freezing, due to runoff/environmental concerns.

we made reservations today, will be in hot springs the wknd of march 21 for anniversary #22.
will be contacting oaklawn tomorrow for carousel tix. can't wait!

In recent years, they seem to be taking the maintenance of the track surface a lot more seriously. I can remember going by the track in the summer and the track would be full of tall weeds, but you don't see that anymore. I think they maintain it year round now. Something strange I have noticed is that the track appears pink or reddish on TV, but when you're there at the track, it's really a sandy light brown or beige color. I guess TV doesn't duplicate colors as naturally as I had thought.

Danzig · #2 01-17-2008, 09:35 PM

they said the 'bounce is back'. from what i read, they are very, very pleased with the results from all the hard work.

anyone going tomorrow, enjoy!!!

Danzig · #3 01-18-2008, 10:41 AM

holy crap.

had to wait til oaklawn opened today to arrange two carousel tix for march 22.

had to wait forever for an operator, and then didn't get very good seats (we wanted as close to the glass as possible, but now we must settle for closer to the buffet and bar). but at least we got seats! we usually just hang out on the apron but when we go for this certain wknd, we do the carousel.

anyway, point being, if you want special seating for the season, esp on a wknd, you better get on the phone.

Borntorun · #4 01-18-2008, 12:50 PM

Great info - thanks to all. My parents moved to Arkansas a couple years ago and we are planning a trip to Oaklawn. I play at the OTB on weekends but never really followed the track during the meet other than playing the Stakes races. Please let me know how the track is playing. How crowded will it be on President's Day - SW Stakes is the feature, advance tickets necessary? Thanks again!