Alabama Thoroughbred Owners Push to Revive Horse Racing NOW

URGENT UPDATE: Thoroughbred owners in Alabama are rallying to bring horse racing back to the state after a staggering 30 years of absence. As the Magic City Classic Stakes unfolds this Friday at the New Orleans Fairgrounds Race Course, local horse breeders are expressing their determination to revive the sport in Alabama.

The race, featuring a one-mile contest with an $85,000 purse, highlights the ongoing passion for horse racing among Alabama’s thoroughbred community. The last thoroughbred race in the state was held at the Birmingham Race Course in 1995, leaving a significant gap in the local racing culture.

Officials from the Alabama Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association are optimistic about reintroducing live thoroughbred racing. President 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. Thoroughbred racing will add thousands of jobs and boost Alabama’s economy.”

The Birmingham Race Course was once a thriving hub, drawing over 13,000 visitors on its opening day in March 1987. Despite its initial grandeur, including a seven-story grandstand, the venue struggled financially and closed after just 175 days of operation. It was briefly revived for greyhound racing but has not hosted thoroughbreds since the mid-’90s.

Kent Gremmels, a key player in today’s efforts, emphasized the emotional connection to racing in Alabama, stating, “I love promoting Alabama thoroughbreds. The one thing that would make it better is being able to bring our horses home and do it in the state where we live.”

While horse racing in the U.S. has faced challenges, with more than 40 tracks shutting down since 2000, advocates point to successful renewals in states like Kansas and Virginia as encouraging examples.

The Alabama Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association is actively lobbying for a revival. A statement from the organization revealed that discussions have taken place with the Birmingham Race Course, but no decisions have been made yet.

As the excitement builds around the Magic City Classic Stakes, Alabama racehorse owners remain hopeful. The potential return of thoroughbred racing could not only restore a beloved local tradition but also create jobs and enhance the economy.

With the stakes high and momentum growing, all eyes will be on Alabama’s racing prospects in the coming days. The community’s passion for thoroughbreds could soon translate into a new chapter for horse racing in the state.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.