Calling it an example of one great Arkansas sports institution lending a hand to another, Louis Cella announced today that Oaklawn has made a $500,000 contribution to the Razorback Foundation at the University of Arkansas. In addition, he is asking for other Arkansas businesses to consider also making a contribution to support the Razorbacks.
Cella, a graduate of the University’s Law School, said it’s no secret these are tough financial times for college sports, especially those at the University of Arkansas. “They are competing in the toughest conference in the nation, and regularly going up against schools with far greater resources,” said Cella. “If the Razorbacks are going to remain competitive, it’s going to take backing from all of us.”
“The University sincerely appreciates what Louis and other business leaders are doing,” said Razorback head football coach Sam Pittman, “and Louis is correct. This is what it is going to take for us to compete in the SEC and nationally.”
For more than 100 years, the two largest sports programs in Arkansas have been the Razorbacks and Oaklawn. Cella pointed out it wasn’t that many years ago when Oaklawn was struggling itself, trying to somehow find a way to compete with all the changes in the racing industry. “We know what it is like to feel outgunned,” he said. “So I’m pleased to now be in a position where we can help. I realize this doesn’t solve the financial crunch for U of A athletics. But if more Arkansas businesses will consider pitching in too, it will be a huge step in the right direction for Razorback nation.”
Moving forward, Oaklawn is working on adding the Razorback Foundation to the Everi Cares Giving Module that is already installed on our gaming voucher kiosks which our patrons use to donate to local charities.
Founded in 1904 and located in Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas, Oaklawn is one of the premiere Thoroughbred racetracks in the country. The casino features slots, live table games and sports betting year-round. Live racing is held between Dec-May and simulcast racing throughout the year. Come visit the Forbes Travel Guide Recommended Oaklawn Hotel, multi-purpose event center, Arkansas’ only Forbes 4-Star Astral Spa, and several dining options. Oaklawn.com, 1-800-OAKLAWN.
