[bigboydan]

I sure hope they do a lot of renovation at Hazel park if it does

Thoroughbred racing may return to state in '08

Posted by The Associated Press September 22, 2007 17:01PM
Categories: Breaking News

It's no sure bet that thoroughbred horse racing will return to Michigan next year, although the odds greatly improved within the past few weeks.

Pari-mutuel horse racing featuring thoroughbreds has been held every year in Michigan since 1933, according to the state's Office of Racing Commissioner. The 75-year streak appeared likely to end next year when the operator of the state's lone thoroughbred track announced in January that the 2007 meet would be its last.

As with other states where there are alternative forms of legalized gambling such as casinos and lottery games, the popularity of horse racing in Michigan has been on the decline for years.
However, the sport got a boost when the state received applications from two experienced horse racing enthusiasts who want to conduct thoroughbred meets in 2008. Racing Commissioner Christine White has scheduled an Oct. 8 hearing to consider the applications, and she is to announce any approved race dates on Oct. 31.