The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma is getting out of the racetrack business.
The tribe purchased the Blue Ribbon Downs in 2003 for $4.25 million. The move drew controversy because the Cherokee Nation was planning to buy the failing facility.
The Choctaws at the time bragged of outsmarting the Cherokees but now the track is going to be sold to an Arkansas company. "It's not been a business that fits with the tribe," Choctaw spokesperson Judy Allen told The Tulsa World. "It's outside our boundaries, and we need to focus on the businesses that are successful within our nation's boundaries."
The facility will be able to continue operating electronic gaming machines under a state law approved by voters.
Get the Story:Choctaw Nation has pact for track (The Tulsa World 6/11)