The Poarch Creek Indians (PCI) and the McGregor Family announced this week that Wind Creek Hospitality, the Tribe’s gaming and hotel business, has completed the purchase of Birmingham Race Course Casino in Alabama.
Poarch Creek Indians Seek Job Creation, Economic Growth
This financial investment is part of the Tribe’s long-term commitment to developing a world-class destination resort in Birmingham for job creation, economic growth, and benefits to the city and region.
PCI Tribal Chair and CEO Stephanie Bryan said:
“As a Tribal people, we are committed to being good neighbors and to being a force for economic growth and positive change. We are very excited to have this wonderful opportunity in Birmingham, and we look forward to creating a top-tier entertainment venue that will bring a boost to the local economy, provide good jobs, and attract tourists from all over the country to one of America’s most dynamic cities.”
The initial agreement between PCI and the McGregor Family was announced on Nov. 18, 2024. The McGregor Family also owns Victoryland Casino in the city of Shorter.
Wind Creek Hospitality is based in Atmore, where the Tribe’s reservation is located. The company owns and operates three 4-Diamond properties in the Yellowhammer State. It also owns deluxe hotel and casino properties in Florida, Illinois, and Pennsylvania, along with resorts in the Caribbean.
“We are excited to finalize this acquisition and begin a new chapter for the Birmingham Race Course,” said Jay Dorris, President and CEO of PCI Gaming Authority.
“Our vision is to build upon the strong foundation that is already in place while enhancing the facility to create a first-class entertainment destination that benefits the Birmingham community and the region.”
Birmingham Race Course Casino To Continue Offering Parimutuel, Horse Racing Games
Birmingham Race Course Casino will continue to offer the parimutuel and horse racing games currently in operation. Wind Creek leaders will also be collaborating with local elected and racing officials as expansion plans are developed.
Lewis Benefield, President of VictoryLand, said:
“This property has been a key asset for the Birmingham area for years, and today’s announcement marks a commitment to elevating the Birmingham Race Course to new heights. The McGregor family is proud to have operated this property over the past three decades, and we are confident that it will be in great hands under the leadership of Wind Creek Hospitality.”
Birmingham Mayor Randall L. Woodfin added:
“More and more, Birmingham has a growing reputation as a destination for entertainment and sporting events, and this investment from the Poarch Creek Indians is a testament to the potential and vibrancy of our community. The redevelopment of the Birmingham Race Course will create jobs, drive tourism, and further establish our city as a key player in the entertainment and hospitality industry.”
The Poarch Creek Indians expect to finalize the transfer of operations sometime this year. The Tribe also intends to study customer demands in the region to put forth the best plan to expand operations in the future.
Jose is an iGaming analyst with wide experience within the sector. He has been working as content writer on casino and betting websites for more than 10 years, contributing on websites like Pokerlistings, Casinobee, Betpack among others, sharing his insights and perspective for the future ofthe iGaming market.
