Marion County racecourse project reaches milestone with land acquisition

A group that includes attorney John Morgan says it has secured control of more than 300 acres in Marion County for a proposed Thoroughbred racetrack and year-round entertainment destination.The Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association and its development partner, Gilligan Racing LLC, announced the milestone Wednesday. The project remains in early planning, with approvals, infrastructure arrangements and other details still to be worked out.Channel 9 previously reported on the group’s plans to develop a Marion County racetrack. The partners now say they have selected a property based on its size, terrain and accessibility, with its exact location to be announced later.What the project could includePreliminary plans call for dirt and turf racing courses, grandstands, hospitality facilities and dining, entertainment and event venues intended to operate year-round.Morgan, founder of the Morgan Morgan law firm, said the development would bring racing to a community already k