Playfair Deal Closer, Tribe Reports

The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe moved toward assuming ownership of Playfair Race Course Wednesday by announcing that its application to operate the Spokane horse racing track has reached the Washington Horse Racing Commission.

Along with the necessary paperwork, New Playfair Park, Inc., formed during the spring to manage the tribe’s racing interests, submitted its $50,000 filing fee and its list of directors.

Phil Ziegler, who manages the tribe’s off-track betting facility at the Muckleshoot Casino in Auburn, will serve as president.

“The commission has indicated they will process the application as soon as possible,” said Ziegler, who has acted as spokesman for the tribe.

New Playfair Park, Inc., has requested 92 racing days between Sept. 25 and March 30. The track opened for training last weekend and more than 120 horses are on the grounds and preparing for Playfair’s 60th season.