Alpena Magic to begin new career at Ellis Park

Shortly after being scratched from Wednesday's 3RD race at Ellis Park, track President

Ron Geary announced that he had privately purchased 17-year-old ALPENA MAGIC (L'Enjoleur)

from his owner/breeder Kenneth

J. Robinette.

"It's time for a new career for

Alpena Magic," Geary said. "This horse enjoys being around people and the

racetrack. His new role will allow him to be our 'equine ambassador' for our new

Early at Ellis and backside tour programs."

Alpena Magic was originally

retired at the age of 15, but that kind of life didn't suit him and he became so

depressed that those around him didn't think he would survive. Trainer Bill

Hicks brought the bay back to the races, and back to health mentally. He had

five works at Ellis Park in preparation for his return to racing.

"I applaud the owner and trainer

of this horse for allowing us to give him a new life here at Ellis Park," Geary

said.

Alpena Magic won 16 races from 154

starts and earned $206,482. He will begin his new career on Saturday as the

featured guest at the track's family focused Early at Ellis program.