Wind Creek Acquires Birmingham Racecourse: Transforming Alabama’s Entertainment Landscape

November 19, 2024 Catherine Williams Entertainment
News Context
At a glance
  • Wind Creek Hospitality, owned by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, will acquire the Birmingham Racecourse from the McGregor family.
  • Wind Creek plans to turn the Birmingham Racecourse into a top entertainment destination in the Southeast.
  • Lewis Benefield, President of Birmingham Racecourse and VictoryLand, stated that the McGregor family has contributed significantly to the local economy, generating substantial tax revenue for Alabama and supporting...
Original source: windcreek.com

Wind Creek Hospitality to Acquire Birmingham Racecourse

Wind Creek Hospitality, owned by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, will acquire the Birmingham Racecourse from the McGregor family. The sale should finalize by early 2025.

Wind Creek plans to turn the Birmingham Racecourse into a top entertainment destination in the Southeast. The facility will continue offering parimutuel and historical horse racing games that are currently in place.

Lewis Benefield, President of Birmingham Racecourse and VictoryLand, stated that the McGregor family has contributed significantly to the local economy, generating substantial tax revenue for Alabama and supporting local charities. Benefield highlighted the challenges of differing state laws and enforcement actions that limited their ability to compete effectively in the gaming industry.

The McGregor family will now focus on their other property, VictoryLand, and advocate for unified gaming legislation in Alabama.

Wind Creek Hospitality, based in Atmore, is one of the fastest-growing gaming companies in the U.S. They plan to invest further in the Birmingham Racecourse, collaborating with local officials during the transition.

Jay Dorris, President and CEO of Wind Creek Hospitality, expressed excitement about the acquisition. He acknowledged the shared goals of providing entertainment and driving economic growth in Alabama.

Stephanie Bryan, Tribal Chair and CEO of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, emphasized their commitment to enhancing the community. She indicated that Wind Creek aims to create jobs and keep tourism dollars in Birmingham, reinforcing its role as an economic driver.

Wind Creek Hospitality manages multiple gaming facilities, including those in Aruba, Atmore, and Bethlehem, along with racetracks in Alabama and Florida. For more information, visit www.windcreek.com.

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