URGENT UPDATE: Thoroughbred horse owners in Alabama are intensifying efforts to bring horse racing back to the state after a staggering 30 years without live races. As thoroughbreds compete in the Magic City Classic Stakes at the New Orleans Fairgrounds this Friday, Alabama’s racing advocates are rallying support for a revival that could significantly benefit the local economy.
Despite the absence of thoroughbred racing since 1995, Alabama Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association President David Harrington is optimistic. “We’re hoping to eventually return live thoroughbred racing to Alabama,” Harrington stated. “We have the infrastructure to do so, and many parts of Alabama’s agricultural industry would benefit. Thoroughbred racing will add thousands of jobs and boost Alabama’s economy.”
The Birmingham Turf Club, which opened on March 4, 1987, initially attracted over 13,000 visitors but struggled financially and closed after just 175 days. It was built with a cost of $85 million and featured a grandstand seating 5,200, but investors lost approximately $50 million due to insufficient attendance. After various ownership changes, the club pivoted to greyhound racing, which ended in 2020.
Wind Creek, the current owner of the Birmingham Race Course, has announced plans to transform the venue into a “premier entertainment destination.” However, the return of thoroughbred racing has not yet been seriously considered. Advocates are urging Wind Creek to reevaluate this potential.
Horse racing has been declining nationally, with over 40 tracks closing since 2000. Yet, recent resurgences in states like Kansas, Nebraska, and Virginia offer hope. “Birmingham Race Course has been approached about bringing back horse racing, but it has not been considered to date,” an official statement revealed.
Advocates like Kent Gremmels, who is involved in promoting the Magic City Classic stakes, believe Alabama thoroughbreds deserve a home race. “I love promoting Alabama thoroughbreds. The one thing that would make it better is being able to bring our horses home,” Gremmels expressed.
With the backdrop of the New Orleans race, the Alabama Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association is more determined than ever. They emphasize the need for local racing as part of Alabama’s agricultural growth and job creation.
As the pressure mounts for a revival, all eyes are on the Birmingham Race Course. Will Alabama finally see the return of live thoroughbred racing after three decades? The coming days will be critical in determining the future of horse racing in the state.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
