Likely new Okla. track owners plan major updates

Chickasaw subsidiary says plans for Remington Park include flat-screen TVs, corporate boxes

• By Murray Evans, Associated Press Writer
• On 4:57 pm EDT, Thursday October 15, 2009

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- The likely new owners of Remington Park said Thursday that patrons of the track soon will see amenities including flat-screen televisions and renovated corporate boxes as well as new or updated gaming machines in its casino.

Officials from Global Gaming RP LLC, a subsidiary of the Ada-based Chickasaw Nation, told the Oklahoma Horse Racing Commission their intent is to update Remington Park, which opened in 1988.

"Over a period of time Remington Park has declined somewhat from its former glory," said John Elliott, the CEO of Global Gaming Solutions LLC, the parent company of Global Gaming RP, which is buying the track for $80.25 million. "You can't overturn that overnight, but that is our focus."

The sale of Remington Park is part of the bankruptcy proceedings of the track's current owner, Magna Entertainment Corp. The Canadian company, which is the largest horse track owner in the U.S., filed for Chapter 11 protection March 5.

A bankruptcy judge in Delaware approved the sale last month, but the state racing commission still must grant Global Gaming RP a racing license before the sale can become final.

The commission could grant preliminary approval at its Nov. 19 meeting. If that occurs, Global Gaming RP would ask for a special meeting in December for final approval, said Randy Calvert, an attorney for Global Gaming RP and a former commission chairman.

No one spoke in opposition Thursday to Global Gaming RP's application for a racing license.

Commission Chairman Patrick Grimmett said it was "exciting for Oklahoma horse racing to have a partner that will invest money into the business that we all love," and commissioner John Smicklas also expressed support.

Both of the state's major horsemen's groups, the Thoroughbred Racing Association of Oklahoma and the Oklahoma Quarter Horse Racing Association, have submitted letters in support of Global Gaming RP's application.

Elliott said the new owners plan to spend about $12 million during the next few years on improvements at the track. He said the initial plan is to replace old televisions with flat-screen TVs, replace carpet in high-traffic areas, modernize the air conditioning system and update the building's facade and signs.

The track's casino, which opened in 2005, also needs attention, Elliott said, noting that Global Gaming RP officials have estimated about 300 of the casino's 700 gaming machines will need to be updated or replaced. Elliott noted that's an area of expertise, as the Chickasaws operate successful casinos including the WinStar Casino in Thackerville and the Riverwind Casino in Goldsby.

He said Remington Park will have a long-term focus on helping develop Oklahoma City's "Adventure District," an area that includes the track, the Oklahoma City Zoo, Science Museum Oklahoma, the National Softball Hall of Fame, the Oklahoma State Firefighters Museum and other attractions. It's possible a hotel could be added into that mix, Elliott said.

"We've operated under difficult circumstances the last year," said Scott Wells, Remington Park's general manager. "To see some clarity brought to the situation by a group that has such enthusiasm for Remington Park is exciting. It's good for the state and the city."

Buzz up!