Indiana Panel Asked to Reconsider Track Rejection

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The developer of a proposed second horse racing track in Indiana has filed a petition with the state racing commission seeking reconsideration of his license rejection.

According to the Indianapolis Star, developer Paul Estridge Sr.'s petition for reconsideration of the 3-1 vote against his license application addresses one of the concerns cited by the commission. The petition states that Estridge would be willing to discuss compensation for Hoosier Park, the only track currently operating in Indiana. One reason cited for rejection of Estridge's license application for the proposed Indianapolis Downs in Lawrence, Ind., was its location within 25 miles of Hoosier Park in Anderson and would have a financial impact on the track.

Despite Estridge's willingness to discuss compensation to Indiana's existing racetrack if his track is licensed, Hoosier Park spokesman Tom Bannon told the Star the track still believes there is insufficient need for a second track.

Estridge's petition requests a conditional license be granted Indianapolis Downs to give Estridge a chance to "create appropriate financial recourses" to Churchill Downs, which is a part owner of Hoosier Park, which it also manages.

Estridge's attorney, Doug Brown, told the Star that if the commission still is not satisfied with the proposed Indianapolis Downs' location once the conditional license is granted and Estridge attempts to seek financial remedy with Churchill Downs, then his client would try to find another location for the track.

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