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HOT SPRINGS MEETING I POSSIBLE IN SPRING i. A NEW ORLEANS, La., Jan. 1. Plans for a revival of racing at Hot Springs have been making very favorable progress and announcement as to when, or if, a resumption of racing in that substantial resort city, famous for its great health restoring waters, will be attempted soon may be known within the next two weeks. So stated Mayor Leo P. McLaughlin of that city during an interview over long distance phone last night. All Hot Springs is anxious to participate in an attempt to revive racing and numerous civic bodies, business organizations and individuals are backing Mayor McLaughlin in his vigorous endeavor to open the way for racing there next spring. Those working for the return of Hot Springs to the racing fold are satisfied that, properly supervised, high class racing would have beneficial effect upon the business welfare of the city and greatly enhance its features to visitors or tourists. At this time Mr. McLaughlin and others active in the movement await representatives of the Cella family of St. Louis, owners of the Oaklawn track, the only race course in or near Hot Springs and a very up-to-date plant. A meeting between representatives of the Oaklawn owners and Hot Springs leaders in the racing revival drive, while at this time not definitely scheduled, is promised within two weeks. Oaklawn, one of the finest racing properties in the South, is the only plant available for the possible spring revival of racing. It is a part of the distinctive racing background which gives Hot Springs a big advantage over a new territory and if Mr. McLaughlin and his supporters succeed in arranging for a return of the sport under such splendid facilities as are to be found at Oaklawn, the racing will attract many of the leading stables and the more substantial horsemen. There has been some talk of a new track, financed by Hot Springs sportsmen and business interests, being constructed but the racing boosters are confident of working out a plan whereby the Oaklawn course can be re-opened. It the Oaklawn owners decline to go ahead with a meeting, almost fully guaranteed against loss, or operation of the track under lease cannot be arranged, Hot Springs may have an entirely- new course. Oaklawn Park can be prepared for a meeting upon short notice and if it is to be available for the revival meeting, there is every prospect of racing in March and early April. Mr. McLaughlin, however, said that a report as to dates circulated in parts of the country this week was not authentic.
