The state’s rich culture steeped in Native American influences will be celebrated during a one-night only event later this month. Remington Park and Red Earth, Inc. will present Oklahoma Classics – an evening filled with Indian dancers, Native American storytelling and more than $1 million in purses during live Oklahoma-bred horse racing. Oklahoma Classics will take place Friday, Oct. 19, beginning at 5 p.m., with all activities free and open to the public. Racing begins at 6:30 p.m.
Scott Wells, Remington Park president and general manager, said this year’s Classics partnership will build upon last year’s inaugural endeavor, giving families the opportunity to immerse themselves in a fun, exhilarating atmosphere.
"As we celebrate 20 years of the Oklahoma Classics, it is an honor to host an evening that lets both Oklahoma-bred horses shine and celebrates our state’s history and culture," Wells said. "Whether in agriculture or competition, horses have played an integral role in many parts of state history."
Combining the excitement of live horse racing and family-friendly activities celebrating the state’s Native American influences, this event will include Oklahoma-bred horses racing for more than $1 million in purses, Red Earth dancers in full regalia, painted ponies, Native American storytelling, guided tipi tours and a special artists’ market.
Janet Dyke, president of the Red Earth board of directors, said this event furthers the statewide nonprofit organization’s mission as it enhances the public’s knowledge of Native American cultures.
"Partnering with strong organizations like Remington Park helps us expand the cultural understanding of Native Americans and the ways in which those cultures have shaped our state," Dyke said. "Oklahoma Classics is a celebration of the continual Native American spirit that is alive and well in Oklahoma."
Oklahoma Classics list of activities
- National Anthem singing by Kimberly DeJesus, former Oklahoma City Pow Wow Club princess
- Painted ponies. Native American artists, including well-known Harvey Pratt, will paint 12-14 ponies in the manner in which their respective tribes would have hundreds of years ago
- Teepees will stand erect on the track’s Plaza. The teepees will be open to the public and members of the Indian Community Church will be on hand to provide historical information about the use and meaning of teepees in Native American culture
- Native American storytelling
- Red Earth dancers dressed in Native American regalia demonstrate traditional dances throughout the evening
- Red Earth Invitational Artists’ Market
Oklahoma Classics will take place at Remington Park on Friday, Oct. 19, with activities beginning at 5 p.m. and continuing throughout the entire evening. Live Thoroughbred racing will begin at 6:30 p.m., with more than $1 million in purses up for grabs. Admission to Oklahoma Classics activities is free and open to the public. Attendees must be at least 18 to wager or enter the casino at Remington Park. General and valet parking as well as admission always are free at Remington Park. For more information, visit www.RemingtonPark.com or call (405) 424-1000.
