Triple Crown hopeful American Pharoah, seen winning the Arkansas Derby
Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson signed a proclamation Friday declaring Saturday, June 6, “American Pharoah Day” throughout the entire state. The winner of Oaklawn’s Arkansas Derby and Rebel Stakes will attempt to become the first Triple Crown winner since 1978 when he runs in the Belmont Stakes Saturday at Belmont Park.
Trained by Hall of Famer Bob Baffert and owned by Zayat Stables, LLC, of Ahmed Zayat, American Pharoah followed up his Arkansas Derby win with victories in the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes and now attempts to win the most elusive prize in not only racing, but the entire sports world.
In the proclamation, Governor Hutchinson acknowledges “the national and international attention and immeasurable fame and recognition to Hot Springs and the State of Arkansas” that American Pharoah has brought and urges all citizens join him in “recognizing the positive notoriety American Pharaoh has brought to Arkansas and to cheer him on at the 2015 Belmont Stakes as he competes to win the Triple Crown.”
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Oaklawn is honoring the winner of its two premiere races for 3-year-olds with American Pharoah Fest and has planned a day full of activities that include the full simulcast of the races from Belmont Park. Fans can get two American Pharoah trading cards and a souvenir poster beginning at 1 p.m. while supplies last and everyone in attendance will also have the chance to win a $100 Win bet on the Belmont Stakes. The betting vouchers will be given away every 15 minutes from 11 – 1 p.m. and 2 – 4 p.m. The festivities will also include live music on the apron until 5 p.m. and a beer garden.
Gates will open at 9:30 a.m. for both racing and gaming Saturday. Post time for the Belmont Stakes will be at 5:36 p.m. Reservations can be made in the Post Parade or Carousel restaurants by calling (501) 623-4411 ext. 340. For more information, visit www.oaklawn.com.
