When Mobile Greyhound Park officially opened its gates and turned the greyhounds loose in August 1973 something special began that would benefit the lives of Mobilians for years to come. From that moment on, great transformations started taking shape in Mobile. The Park quickly became one of the city's biggest industries, providing hundreds of jobs, and was recognized as one of the top tourist attractions in the state of Alabama.

"We are proud to have been a part of Mobile's success during our first 25 years," said Franklin D. Brown, chairman of the board for Mobile Greyhound Park. "Through the years, Mobile Greyhound Park has generated a great deal of excitement and tax revenue for the area," he said.

"With over $130 million collected by the racing commission and $115 million distributed to municipalities, schools and agencies in the area, everyone is a winner through the Park's success."

Seven Mobilians, chosen by the Mobile County Racing Commission, formed the partnership that built and operated Mobile Greyhound Park. With no idea of how it would be received by the public, Franklin D. Brown, Lum Morrison, E. L. McDonald, Aldon L. Smith, Herman Maisel, Joseph C. Martin and Joe Wilson introduced Alabama's first racing facility by making Mobile Greyhound Park a reality.

Any anxious moments were cast aside on opening night, when crowds crammed the facility and frustrated motorists sat on Interstate 10 waiting for the opportunity to participate.

Mobile Greyhound Park, in accordance with the enabling legislation, provided generous contributions to institutions of higher education and various agencies. One of the largest benefactors was the University of South Alabama's College of Medicine where the Park played an integral role in its establishment. Other such institutions and agencies such as Bishop State Community College, the County Law Enforcement Firefighters Pension Fund, Mobile City Schools, mobile County and its municipalities have also benefitted from Mobile Greyhound Park's tax funding.

Because of the Park's commitment to excellence, it attracts top owners and trainers of greyhounds.

"We are proud of this accomplishment, as well the success of the Adopt-A-Greyhound program, whereby retired greyhounds are found loving homes," said Brown.

Over the years, Mobile Greyhound Park has positioned itself not only as a premiere racing establishment, but as a leading contributor to Mobile's economy and quality of life through jobs, tax revenues and private contributions."

"Today we celebrate 25 years of excellence in the entertainment industry," said Brown, "We believe in Mobile and its people. This is our home. We are excited to rededicate ourselves to an ongoing commitment of excellence to our community, staff and patrons."

When the Mobile Greyhound Park opened, not only did the area gain a great new source of entertainment and a tourist attraction, but it also gained a new source of financial support.

MGP's contributions have made possible outstanding, activities within Mobile and surrounding, areas. The seven percent allocated to the local community and the one to two percent designated for the state of Alabama General Fund has helped provide many needed materials and programs for the city and state.

The park taxes have been distributed throughout the Mobile community. Education and law enforcement have reaped the largest rewards. Since 1973, the University of South Alabama's Medical College has gained over $44 million. The Mobile School Board has acquired $18 million since the tracks opening, dates. S. D. Bishop State Junior College was rewarded $12 million and the County Law Enforcement Firefighters Pension Fund has received over $6 million. The complete distribution report is listed below.

Mobile Greyhound Park brings many wonderful aspects to the area. For some, the park is a source of recreation and entertainment. For others, it's the provider of new opportunities and ideas. Perhaps the greatest aspect of Mobile Greyhound Park is that it allows everyone in the Mobile area to be winners.