The never-ending saga continues as yet another obstacle has been placed in the path towards acquiring the rights to Aqueduct Race Track’s proposed Video Lottery Terminals, causing at least one bidder to bow out of the competition.

The six bidders vying for the ever-elusive contract to bring 4,500 electronic slot machines to Aqueduct were recently informed by Gov. David Paterson that the state is seeking a minimum of $200 million in upfront payments to be delivered within 30 days of being awarded the bid. The six bidders have until this Friday to respond to the Governor’s letter and provide proof they have the funds on hand.

Las Vegas Gambling Giant Wynn Resorts, widely considered a front runner, has since retreated from the bidding war, according to a number of media outlets.

Wynn representatives could not be reached for comment.

On the contrary, a number of the bidders have already confirmed they will meet the Governor’s demands.

Allegedly, Penn National already pledged $250 million upfront, the highest amount thus far, as part of its initial proposal.

William Bissett, president of Delaware North Companies Gaming & Entertainment, the lead partner in Aqueduct Gaming LLC and the company that previously won the bid, but was unable to deliver a promised $370 million upfront payment, said the group will be able to comply with the state’s current request.

“We have no problem meeting the terms outlined in the letter regarding a minimum upfront payment,” Bissett said. “Our reply will provide confirmation of our ability to meet the state’s terms and will underscore the strengths of our bid.”

Frank Marino, a spokesman for the Peebles MGM team, said the coalition recognizes the difficult economic situation the state is facing and welcomed its request to secure the funds are available, especially in light of what occurred with the last contract.

“We have been saying that it’s important for everyone there to see that the money is hard and that the money is there,” Marino said.

He added that the request will equalize the playing field, in terms of the up front payment, and allow the state to examine the overall proposal more carefully.

“We think this is actually a step in the right direction in terms of bringing closure to the project,” Marino said.

Reach Reporter Kaitlyn Kilmetis at kkilmetis@queenstribune.com, or (718) 357-7400, Ext. 128.