It has been reported that Manitoba’s Peguis First Nation bought Assiniboia Downs from the Manitoba Jockey Club on September 17 and that, in turn, the Manitoba Horse Racing Commission could suspend simulcast wagering at the raceway effective January 1.
An article by the Winnipeg Free Press has quoted MHRC Chair Tom Goodman as saying that the commission has suspended consideration for the track’s 2014 racing license at this time.
The report explains that the MHRC wants particular information regarding the $15-million deal – which includes a 25-year, interest-free mortgage – divulged to the commission.
It was reported last week that the MJC and Peguis First Nation will be holding a press conference on Thursday, December 19 to announce a new endeavour.
A report by Global News explains that a lawyer for the MJC has now filed an application for a judicial review of the MHRC’s threat to suspend the track’s license.
The Global News article states that the MJC is taking the position that the MHRC has no authority to take away the track’s license.
(With files from Global News and the Winnipeg Free Press)