Race Tracks > California Race Tracks > Oak Tree Racing Association
Oak Tree Racing Association
The Oak Tree Racing Association is an American not-for-profit corporation that exists to conduct live thoroughbred horse racing in Southern California.
History
In 1968, the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club the operators of Del Mar Racetrack in Del Mar, California decided to inform California racing authorities that they did not intend to use the fall dates they were granted and to instead race only a summer meet. Clement L. Hirsch, Louis R. Rowan, both leading horse owners, and veterinarian Dr. Jack Robbins, as well as other horsemen and fans were deeply opposed to the move which had the effect of ending live racing in Southern California from September 1 to November 1.
Hirsch, Rowan, Robbins, and several others decided to do something and formed the Oak Tree Racing Association. Dr. Jack Robbins, was a founding Director and became its President. The Association decided against purchasing a racetrack or constructing a new one. Instead they rented Santa Anita Park for the first time in 1969 and they remain there to this day. Generally run in September/October, Oak Tree is considered to be one of the finest race meetings in the country and is renowned for excellent turf racing.
The track conducts many races that lead up to the World Thoroughbred Championships. Oak Tree has held the Breeders' Cup in 1986, 1993, 2003, 2008 and 2009.
