UPDATE: Thoroughbred owners in Alabama are urgently advocating for the return of horse racing to the state, marking a significant push after a staggering 30 years since the last race. As excitement builds, they are closely watching the Magic City Classic Stakes this Friday, a race taking place at the New Orleans Fairgrounds Race Course with an $85,000 purse.
The last thoroughbred race at the Birmingham Race Course occurred in 1995, but hopes are high among local horse breeders and racing enthusiasts. President of the Alabama Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, David Harrington, stated, “We’re hoping to eventually return live thoroughbred racing to Alabama. We have the infrastructure to do so, and many parts of Alabama’s agricultural industry would benefit.”
The Birmingham Turf Club, which opened on March 4, 1987, once attracted over 13,000 visitors on its first day, showcasing the potential popularity of horse racing in the region. Despite its initial success, the facility struggled financially, closing after just 175 days and costing investors approximately $50 million. The track was later sold to Milton McGregor, who incorporated greyhound racing, but it has remained without thoroughbred events since 1995.
Wind Creek, the new owners of the Birmingham Race Course, have expressed intentions to develop it into a premier entertainment venue, which could potentially include a return to horse racing. The Alabama Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association emphasizes the economic benefits of reviving the sport, predicting thousands of new jobs and a substantial boost to the state’s economy.
While horse racing has faced challenges nationwide, with over 40 tracks closing since 2000, recent successful renewals in states like Kansas, Nebraska, and Virginia inspire hope for Alabama’s racing prospects.
“The Birmingham Race Course has been approached about bringing back horse racing, but it has not been considered to date,” officials report. Kent Gremmels, a key player in organizing the Magic City Classic, advocates for the return of racing, stating, “I love promoting Alabama thoroughbreds… being able to bring our horses home would be incredible.”
As the Magic City Classic Stakes unfolds, the eyes of Alabama horse racing advocates are focused on the potential for revival. The push to reinstate thoroughbred racing in the state is a developing story that could reshape the local economy and community engagement in the coming months.
Stay tuned for updates as this situation evolves and Alabama’s horse racing future hangs in the balance.
