Prairie Public Broadcasting

State's Only Thoroughbred Track Closing GRAND RAPIDS, MI (Michigan Radio) - The state's only thoroughbred race track will close tomorrow.

The owner of Great Lakes Downs in Muskegon announced last January that this was to be the track's final year.

Magna Entertainment says its track couldn't compete with Indian casinos able to offer slots and other games not available at the horse tracks.

Chrissy Dailey is an executive assistant with the Muskegon track.

She says the race track was a significant contributor to the local economy.

"There are so many other things to offer for tourism, but this was a draw for West Michigan tourism. So, it's definitely the end of an era."

Last week, Michigan's racing commissioner gave tentative approval for thoroughbred races in Detroit next year.

Final approval is pending review of the track's facility.
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