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Hot Springs Today
By the People, for the People
Record Crowd Attends 90th Arkansas Derby Day at Oaklawn
Hot Springs racetrack sees highest attendance ever for annual Kentucky Derby prep race.
Mar. 30, 2026 at 5:00pm
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The Arkansas Derby's vibrant energy and high-stakes competition are captured in a cubist-inspired illustration that deconstructs the race into dynamic geometric forms.Hot Springs TodayOaklawn Race Track and Casino Resort in Hot Springs, Arkansas celebrated the 90th running of the Arkansas Derby, a key Kentucky Derby prep race, drawing a record crowd of over 73,000 attendees to the annual event. The race, which awards 100 qualifying points to the winner, is seen as a crucial step for owners and trainers looking to reach the Triple Crown.
Why it matters
The Arkansas Derby is one of the most prestigious annual events in Arkansas, drawing thousands of fans to Hot Springs and putting the state in the national spotlight for horse racing. The record attendance underscores the continued popularity and importance of the race as a Kentucky Derby qualifier.
The details
Oaklawn's Vice President of Marketing, Chris Ho, said the high stakes of the Arkansas Derby make it a dream opportunity for owners and trainers looking to reach the Kentucky Derby. TV host Nancy Holthus highlighted the unique access the event provides, including time in the paddock with the horses and connections, as well as opportunities to interview winning teams throughout the day. The infield contributed to a festival-like atmosphere, featuring a Kids Zone, live music and plenty of opportunities for attendees to showcase their race-day fashion.
- The 90th annual Arkansas Derby was held on March 30, 2026.
- Oaklawn had hoped to surpass 70,000 attendees, exceeding the population of Hot Springs.
The players
Chris Ho
The Vice President of Marketing at Oaklawn Race Track and Casino Resort.
Nancy Holthus
A TV host who highlighted the unique access and atmosphere of the Arkansas Derby event.
Oaklawn Race Track and Casino Resort
The racetrack in Hot Springs, Arkansas that hosts the annual Arkansas Derby, a key Kentucky Derby prep race.
What they’re saying
“The stakes make the race a dream opportunity for owners and trainers looking to reach the Triple Crown.”
— Chris Ho, Vice President of Marketing, Oaklawn Race Track and Casino Resort
“The energy of the fans is what makes the day special, with thousands gathering to watch the races and support their favorite jockeys and trainers.”
— Nancy Holthus, TV Host
The takeaway
The record-breaking attendance at the 90th Arkansas Derby underscores the continued popularity and importance of the race as a key qualifier for the Kentucky Derby, drawing thousands of horse racing fans to Hot Springs and putting Arkansas in the national spotlight.
