Birmingham, Ala. – The Poarch Creek Indians and the McGregor Family today announced that Wind Creek Hospitality, the Tribe’s gaming and hotel business, has   purchased the Birmingham Racecourse. This significant financial investment on the part of the Tribe signals its long-term commitment to developing a world-class destination resort in Birmingham that will create good jobs, spur economic growth, and bring significant long-term benefits to the city and the region. The initial agreement between PCI and the McGregor Family was announced on Nov. 18, 2024.

Wind Creek Hospitality, which is based in Atmore, Alabama, where the Tribe’s reservation is located, owns and operates three 4-Diamond properties in the state. It also owns deluxe hotel and casino properties in Florida, Pennsylvania, and Illinois, as well as resorts in the Caribbean. In each locale, Wind Creek Hospitality has brought the Tribe’s commitment to offering a deluxe entertainment experience for its customers and to improving the quality of life for citizens in the community.

“We are excited to finalize this acquisition and begin a new chapter for the Birmingham Racecourse,” 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.”

The facility will continue to offer the parimutuel and historical horse racing games currently in operation. Wind Creek leaders will be working closely with local elected and racing officials as expansion plans are developed.

PCI Tribal Chair and CEO Stephanie Bryan emphasized the Tribe’s dedication to investment in the Birmingham community.

“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.”

Lewis Benefield, President of VictoryLand and former President of the Birmingham Racecourse, said he is excited about the future of the property under PCI’s leadership.

“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,” he said. “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 said he welcomes the investment and the positive impact it will have on the city.

“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,” he said. “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.”

During 2025, the Poarch Creek Indians expect to finalize the transfer of operations, survey the region to better understand customer demands, and solidify plans to expand facilities and operations in the future.