December 30, 2014
MGCB: Swartz Creek track must cease live horse racing, simulcasting and wagering if an agreement is not reached
Detroit—The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has warned the Sports Creek Raceway and the Michigan Harness Horsemen’s Association that all live horse racing, simulcasting and pari-mutuel wagering at the Swartz Creek track must stop if the parties don’t sign a contract for live racing before Jan. 1, 2015. Michigan law strictly prohibits tracks from offering live or simulcast racing without a contract with a horsemen’s organization.
“The Horse Racing Act is clear and unequivocal—tracks may not simulcast, or accept wagers on other races unless they have signed contract for live racing,” said Richard Kalm, MGCB executive director. “While I am sorry it has come to this, we do not have any discretion in the matter.”
Since Oct. 31, 2014, the MGCB has urged the parties to reach an agreement.
“The law requires that I issue an order tomorrow to cease and desist unless an agreement is signed,” Kalm said. “It’s not too late to sign a contract. I call upon both parties to set aside their differences and cooperate for the good of horse racing and the Swartz Creek community.”
If the track is shut down, Sports Creek must arrange for bettors to redeem any unpaid winning pari-mutuel wagering tickets issued at the track by March 2, 2015.
"The Michigan Gaming Control Board shall ensure the conduct of fair and honest gaming to protect the interests of the citizens of the State of Michigan.”
