Zack Gillham was born and raised in Hot Springs, so he has always understood, on some level, the significance of Oaklawn Hot Springs to his community. A little more than a decade ago, however, that passing knowledge became real to him in a new way — one that ended up launching his career, as well.
“Watching American Pharoah win both the Rebel Stakes and the Arkansas Derby in 2015 gave me a completely new appreciation for the sport,” Gillham said. “Seeing a future Triple Crown winner compete in my hometown made me realize that the biggest stage in horse racing wasn’t somewhere else; it was right here in Hot Springs.”
Gillham joined Oaklawn in player development the following year and has since grown his skills across multiple departments, including mutuels, sportsbook and wagering operations. Each role has given him a deeper understanding of what sets the organization apart both in the state and the region and prepared him well for his role as vice president of racing and wagering.
“What I enjoy most is the variety,” Gillham said. “Every day presents a new challenge, whether it’s working on the live racing product, overseeing wagering operations, planning for future racing seasons or identifying new opportunities to enhance the guest experience. I enjoy the strategic side of the business, but I also appreciate that everything we do ultimately supports the fans, horsemen, owners, team members and community who make Oaklawn what it is.”
While the live racing season only runs for part of the year, pulling it all off is a year-round effort. Several pieces must come together long before opening day, from scheduling and purse structures to wagering operations, regulatory coordination and countless other behind-the-scenes details. It takes an “incredible team of professionals” to make the excitement of race day possible, Gillham said, and he feels fortunate to play a role in preserving a century-plus-old tradition while continuing to modernize the organization for future generations.
“At Oaklawn, we strive to create a memory that lasts a lifetime, whether someone is attending their very first race or they’ve been coming here for decades,” he said. “We want every guest to feel welcomed, entertained and excited to return.”
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