Recent Updates From the Horse Racing World Unveil a Tale of Sighs of Relief for Turf Paradise?s Future

Turf Paradise, the iconic horse racing track in Phoenix, Arizona, found itself at a crossroads. An uncertainty extended its ominous shadow over dozens of off-track betting (OTB) sites scattered across the state. The imminent threat stemmed from a contract between Turf Paradise and the Arizona Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA), scheduled to expire on October 1. The expiration of this contract cast a pall of doubt over the continued operations of these betting locations, leaving the fate of Arizona’s horse racing and betting industry in limbo.

However, within the incredibly short span of less than 24 hours, the Arizona HBPA expediently extended their agreement with Turf Paradise. This not only granted the OTBs the continued privilege of operation until November 12, but also witnessed the entrance of a mysterious buyer into the picture.

A mystery buyer steps forward

Nickens, a Louisiana native with a background in overseeing major industrial projects and gold mining, learned about Turf Paradise’s imminent closure and the loss of thousands of horse industry jobs. Inspired to take action, he initiated contact with track owner Jerry Simms.

Their conversation led to a potential deal, one that could save jobs, preserve history, and transform Turf Paradise into a top-tier facility.?I had several buyers for the track and I chose the buyer who I signed an agreement and moving ahead with because he plans to run racing,? Simms said to Paulick Report. ?He’s very much an enthusiast, wants to have racing, is not interested in putting data centers on the property. He wants racing.

Nickens and his partner, Richard Moore, are prepared to invest upwards of $50 million in redeveloping the track. This redevelopment may encompass the addition of a hotel, restaurants, and businesses beneficial to horse racing, such as RV and trailer sales and services. Their vision is to establish Turf Paradise as one of the best facilities in the country. Leroy Gessman, executive director of the Arizona HBPA, told Steve Byk on his At the Races radio show Thursday morning, ?It’s a crazy story and I’m still a little suspicious of everything.? They have even planned a future for it.

Turf Paradise’s horse racing and its promising future

During a virtual meeting of the Arizona Racing Commission, it was revealed that Nickens and Moore, operating under the newly formed LLC, Turf Paradise Land Trust, aim to purchase the racetrack. Their statement conveyed a commitment to live racing, the preservation of historical significance, and the safeguarding of thousands of jobs associated with horse racing.

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The plan includes opening a live race meet as early as January 2024, signaling a swift turnaround for the racetrack’s fortunes. The Arizona Racing Commission approved simulcasting and ADW contracts tied to Turf Paradise, indicating a level of confidence in the potential buyer’s ability to revitalize the facility.

Turf Paradise faced an uncertain future, but a quick extension of their agreement with the Arizona HBPA and the emergence of mystery buyer Frank Nickens, promise to revive the iconic racetrack. The Arizona Racing Commission’s approval and a potential live race meet in January 2024 signal a positive turnaround for this beloved institution.

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