Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission Approves Ogallala Casino, Horse Track

The Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission (NRGC) approved a racing license application from Hastings Exposition and Racing, Inc. to establish a new casino resort and Quarter Horse track in Ogallala near Lake McConaughy.

Hastings Exposition and Racing Inc. partnered with Elite Casino Resorts to develop a 5/8-mile horse track

Hastings Exposition and Racing Inc. partnered with Elite Casino Resorts to develop a 5/8-mile track on a 178-acre site. Elite Casino Resorts currently operates the Grand Island Casino Resort in Grand Island, Nebraska.

Brian Becker, founder of Hastings Exposition and Racing Inc., said: “There are over 79,000 Quarter Horses, with over 13,500 owners in Nebraska, most in western Nebraska. We look forward to highlighting the valuable role these Nebraska bred horses have played in our history and growing Quarter Horse racing in our state.”

Elite Casino Resorts submitted a gaming application to build a casino resort next to the track. Of course, the planned casino resort complex includes a hotel, restaurants, and truck stop. It will be owned and operated by Elite Casino Resorts.

“We are thrilled to bring a first-class resort, grow out of state tourism, add jobs and invest $100 million into Ogallala and western Nebraska” said Dan Kehl, CEO of Elite Casino Resorts.

Moreover, the project is pending Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission approval.

Detailed plans were submitted as part of the application for the racetrack and facilities and the casino resort complex. Construction on the racetrack is expected to begin as soon as zoning is approved.

Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission now requires license applicants to send applications via mail

According to the NRGC’s website, a license may be obtained by filling out a license application online. However, due to security issues, the commission is no longer accepting online applications.

In the past, NRGC applicants were required to attach the application in an email to [email protected]. For another option, applicants can also print off their application and mail it with payment to the following address:

NE Racing & Gaming Commission, 700 E Stolley Park Rd, Grand Island NE 68801.

Furthermore, those applying for a license must have fingerprints processed in the State of Nebraska every five years. Applicants between the ages of 18 and 75 are subject to fingerprinting.

However, if an individual is unable to get printed in Nebraska, the applicant must mail in a card with their fingerprints. A first-time applicant must stop by the licensing office to receive a license badge. This will allow the applicant access to restricted areas.

Elite Casino Resorts owns and operates the Midwest’s premier gaming and resort destinations. In fact, it runs three casino resorts in Iowa: Riverside Casino & Golf Resort in Riverside, Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort in Larchwood, and Rhythm City Casino Resort in Davenport.

Additionally, the casino owns Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort in Carterville, Illinois. Grand Island Resort Casino is located at Fonner Park, the Nebraska springtime tradition.