The group has met stiff resistance from local politicians, who bristle at the idea of a new track to compete with Oxford Downs’ premier location and county fair atmosphere.Īmong other improvements, South Marion Real Estate Holdings, pari-mutuel permit holder for Oxford Downs, is starting construction of a card room based on current law. The FTBOA, representing Thoroughbred breeders and owners statewide, is not facing easy odds.
Looking to develop a new horse racing facility in Marion, Ocala-based Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association (FTBOA) joined forces with a questionable trade organization in the yearlong effort to stamp out one of the region’s up-and-coming entertainment venues.
Florida’s thoroughbred industry is going all out in a high-stakes race against Oxford Downs, the quarter-horse track near The Villages in southern Marion County.
