A group that includes attorney John Morgan says it has secured control of more than 300 acres in Marion County for a proposed Thoroughbred racetrack and year-round entertainment destination.
The Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association and its development partner, Gilligan Racing LLC, announced the milestone Wednesday. The project remains in early planning, with approvals, infrastructure arrangements and other details still to be worked out.
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Channel 9 previously reported on the group’s plans to develop a Marion County racetrack. The partners now say they have selected a property based on its size, terrain and accessibility, with its exact location to be announced later.
Preliminary plans call for dirt and turf racing courses, grandstands, hospitality facilities and dining, entertainment and event venues intended to operate year-round.
Morgan, founder of the Morgan & Morgan law firm, said the development would bring racing to a community already known for breeding and training Thoroughbreds.
“Some of the greatest Thoroughbreds in history have been bred, raised and trained right here,” Morgan said. “Now we have an extraordinary opportunity to bring world-class Thoroughbred racing to the very community that produces these magnificent athletes.”
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Gilligan Racing’s partners also include former Miami Beach Mayor Philip Levine. Its team includes Ron Winchell, co-owner of Kentucky Downs and head of Winchell Thoroughbreds.
Winchell said his experience at Kentucky Downs demonstrates the importance of combining racing with competitive purses and a strong guest experience.
The partners say the track would operate under a racing permit held by Ocala Thoroughbred Racing, a wholly owned nonprofit subsidiary of the breeders’ and owners’ association.
The nonprofit structure is intended to support racing purses, breeder incentives and investments in racing infrastructure, according to the announcement.
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Association CEO Lonny Powell called securing the site a meaningful step toward establishing a racing facility in the county.
“For generations, Marion County has been the heart of Florida’s Thoroughbred breeding and training industry,” Powell said.
Gilligan Racing will coordinate with Marion County, state officials and regulators on the approvals and infrastructure needed to advance the project, the partners said.
The announcement did not disclose a project cost, construction start date or opening date. Additional details are expected as planning progresses.
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