A new facility featuring Thoroughbred and Standardbred racing is expected to open in 2014 near Calgary, Alberta, the partners in the project announced Dec. 4.
United Horsemen of Alberta and Century Casinos said the racetrack and gaming facility will be called Century Downs Racetrack and Casino. The partners said funding of about $24 million for the project has been secured.
Harness racing would begin by the end of 2014, according to projections. The first Thoroughbred meet would be held in 2016.
Calgary was home to Stampede Park, where horse racing ended in 2008. United Horsemen of Alberta has spent more than a decade attempting to develop and open a racetrack and entertainment center in Calgary.
Officials said Century Downs will have a 5 1/2-furlong racing surface, 550 gaming machines, an off-track betting area, and a bar, lounge, and restaurant. The track will be located less than a mile north of Calgary not far from the Calgary International Airport.
Northlands Park, the province's major racetrack, is located in Edmonton about three hours north of Calgary.