CDI, the company behind the Kentucky Derby which it hosts at its Churchill Downs track, is believed to be among a number of buyers looking at the 3,700-acre base in Irvine which goes under the auctioneers hammer later this year.
Although CDI is officially not commenting on the claims, US media reports quote senior figures in Irvine as confirming its interest.
CDI, headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, owns and operates horse racing venues throughout the US. The company's racetracks in California, Florida, Illinois, Indiana and Kentucky host 115 graded-stakes events and many of North America's most prestigious races, including the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks, Hollywood Gold Cup and Arlington Million. CDI racetracks have hosted nine Breeders' Cup World Thoroughbred Championships.
US race track owner Churchill Downs Inc (CDI) is planning a major bid for a former Marine Corps air base in California and if successful will turn it into a racetrack, say reports.
