Wind Creek Hospitality completes Birmingham Racecourse acquisition
The Poarch Creek Indians’ gaming and hotel business has purchased the Alabama venue.
US.- The Poarch Creek Indians’ (PCI) gaming and hotel business Wind Creek Hospitality has completed the purchase of the Birmingham Racecourse in Alabama. The agreement with the McGregor Family was announced in November.
PCI expects to finalise the transfer of operations this year and will survey the region to better understand customer demands and solidify plans to expand facilities and operations. It said it would work with elected and racing officials as plans are developed. In the meantime, the facility will continue to offer parimutuel and historical horse racing games.
PCI said the investment would create a world-class destination resort in Birmingham, creating good jobs, economic growth and long-term benefits.
Jay Dorris, president and CEO of PCI Gaming Authority, said: “We are excited to finalize this acquisition and begin a new chapter for the Birmingham Racecourse. Our vision is to build upon the strong foundation that is already in place while enhancing the facility to create a first-class entertainment destination that benefits the Birmingham community and the region.”
PCI Tribal chair and CEO Stephanie Bryan commented: “As a Tribal people, we are committed to being good neighbors and to being a force for economic growth and positive change. We are very excited to have this wonderful opportunity in Birmingham, and we look forward to creating a top-tier entertainment venue that will bring a boost to the local economy, provide good jobs, and attract tourists from all over the country to one of America’s most dynamic cities.”
Lewis Benefield, president of VictoryLand and former president of the Birmingham Racecourse, added: “This property has been a key asset for the Birmingham area for years, and today’s announcement marks a commitment to elevating the Birmingham Race Course to new heights. The McGregor family is proud to have operated this property over the past three decades, and we are confident that it will be in great hands under the leadership of Wind Creek Hospitality.”
Birmingham mayor Randall L. Woodfin said: “More and more, Birmingham has a growing reputation as a destination for entertainment and sporting events, and this investment from the Poarch Creek Indians is a testament to the potential and vibrancy of our community. The redevelopment of the Birmingham Race Course will create jobs, drive tourism, and further establish our city as a key player in the entertainment and hospitality industry.”
Alabama introduces gambling bill
Alabama lawmakers recently introduced House Bill 490, which would create an Alabama Gaming Commission and establish a framework for electronic games of chance, sports betting and a lottery. The bill was introduced by Rep. Jeremy Gray and four co-sponsors.
According to the proposed legislation, sports betting would be taxed at 10 per cent of revenue. An undetermined number of licenses would be issued for online and retail betting. No suggested licence fee is included in the text. An NIL Oversight Committee would have the responsibility of regulating name, image, and likeness (NIL) compensation for high school student-athletes.
