Miscommunication could change Expo Square agreement with Creek Nation; horse racing could remain

TULSA - Tulsa horse racing may not be packing up just yet.

A deal was recently announced with Muscogee Creek Nation that would rename the QuikTrip Center to "MCN" and end racing at the facility.

In a statement released Monday, Expo Square officials admitted confusion that could give Fair Meadows racing another year of life.

The release states that Fair Meadows race director Ron Shotts signed two agreements with the Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred associations in October guaranteeing horse racing through 2013, an act performed without the consent of the Tulsa County Public Facilities Authority board.

"The TCPFA board and legal counsel had no knowledge of the signed agreements. I apologize to all parties for any inconvenience and take full responsibility for my actions," Shotts said in the statement. "The agreements, which I have executed for many years, were commonplace for receiving the annual racing licenses. I will work with the associations and my staff to conduct the 2013 race meet to the best of our ability.”

A TCPFA meeting has been called for Wednesday to address the issue, along with a new naming rights agreement with Muscogee Creek Nation.