The present track head's father, the late John G. Cella, led Oaklawn for three decades, prior to his death in 1968. Charles J. was a young man when he succeeded John G. at Oaklawn's helm. He had since become one of the most widely-known and respected track operators and today, his enthusiasm for the sport has never wavered. Whereas my grandfather and uncle had five or six tracks at one time, I have never cared to have more than one. After Charles' father sold Fort Erie to E. P. Taylor and the Ontario Jockey Club in the early 50's, the Cellas have only Oaklawn.
Big numbers are commonplace here.
From a single live meeting, Oaklawn has been multifaceted. Our live racing on track, our live racing going out to others. Then other people's races we bring here from May to December. No longer does Oaklawn shut down. This has had a profound affect on the staffing.