While Santa Anita Park remains closed, Oaklawn Park is picking up a bit of the slack in terms of graded action this weekend. The venue has split the Rebel Stakes (G2) into two divisions on March 16, resulting in a redistribution of the Kentucky Derby points being offered. Each division will now be worth 37.5 points to the winner, 15 points to second, 7.5 points to third and 3.75 points to fourth. The total purse has also been increased to $1.5 million, resulting in each division being worth $750,000.
Also on tap March 16 at Oaklawn is the Azeri Stakes (G2), the major local prep for the April 14 Apple Blossom Handicap (G1).