Alabama Horsemen Respond to Sale of Birmingham Race Course to PCI

(from Alabama HBPA news release)
In response to the announcement of the sale of the Birmingham Race Course (BRC) to PCI Gaming, a subsidiary of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians (PBCI), Alabama’s horsemen and women are expressing cautious optimism for the future of the state’s long-dormant horse racing industry. After more than 25 years since racing was last held in Alabama, the sale of the Birmingham Race Course marks a potential turning point in the state’s effort to revive and grow its horse racing and pari-mutuel wagering industries.

While acknowledging that uncertainty remains about the exact future of the facility, Alabama’s horsemen are hopeful that PCI’s investment in the BRC could signal the beginning of a new era for horse racing in the state. The Birmingham Race Course, once a vibrant venue for thoroughbred racing, halted racing in 1995. The revitalization of the facility is seen as a crucial step in restoring Alabama’s legacy as a key player in the racing world.

A New Era for Alabama’s Horse Racing Industry
“We welcome this opportunity to reintroduce racing to Alabama, and we see PCI’s purchase of the Birmingham Race Course as a step in the right direction for the future of the sport in our state,” said David Harrington, President of the Alabama Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (ALHBPA). “Horse racing has not been held in Alabama since 1995, and we believe that with the right investment, this sale could lead to the revitalization of not only the BRC, but the entire state’s equine industry. We look forward to working with PCI to bring horse racing back to Alabama and ensure the continued growth of this important industry.”

Commitment to Jobs and Economic Growth
Horse racing has been a significant economic driver for the Southeast, supporting thousands of jobs across a wide range of industries, from breeders and trainers to stable hands, jockeys, veterinarians, and support staff. The horse racing industry is also critical to the agricultural sector and tourism economy, and its revival could provide a major boost to both local and state economies in Alabama.

“We are optimistic that PCI’s investment in the Birmingham Race Course will lead to the creation of new jobs and opportunities for Alabama’s horsemen and women,” said Kent Gremmels, a member of the AHBPA. “This sale could be a game-changer for the state’s racing and breeding community, and we look forward to collaborating with PCI to restore Alabama’s reputation as a leader in the equine industry.”

Collaboration to Preserve Racing Traditions
The Alabama Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, along with other key stakeholders, is committed to working alongside PCI to ensure that horse racing can once again flourish in Alabama. This includes safeguarding existing jobs, protecting the traditions of the sport, and fostering the growth of the breeding and training industries.

Looking Ahead
“We are excited to engage with PCI as they take over the Birmingham Race Course, and we are optimistic that this will be the first step in bringing horse racing back to Alabama,” said Harrington. “With the right leadership and investment, we believe that Alabama’s horse racing industry has the potential to thrive once again, providing economic benefits and creating jobs for many years to come.”