The Bluegrass State is preparing for the debut of legal sports wagering on September 7th, with Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) receiving approval to manage six retail sports and equine wagering venues throughout Kentucky.
These CDI-sanctioned establishments will feature expansive viewing displays, enabling guests to follow all the excitement of professional and collegiate athletic events while placing wagers.
For added convenience, a dedicated “Bet & Jet” program will provide designated short-term parking spaces. These 15-minute zones are ideal for individuals aiming to swiftly place a bet at CDI facilities.
The six wagering venues will be distributed across the Commonwealth in locales such as Churchill Downs Racetrack in Louisville, Derby City Gaming in Louisville, Turfway Park Racing & Gaming in Florence, Newport Racing & Gaming in Newport, Oak Grove Racing, Gaming & Hotel in Oak Grove, and Ellis Park Racing & Gaming in Henderson.
Save the date! Each location will be organizing grand opening festivities around September 7th, featuring themed cuisine and beverages.
William Carstanjen, Chief Executive Officer of CDI, conveyed his organization’s enthusiasm about introducing their proficiency in retail sports wagering to the state of Kentucky. He also acknowledged the Kentucky legislative body, Governor Beshear, the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (KHRC), and the Kentucky Justice and Public Safety Cabinet for their contributions in realizing this endeavor. Carstanjen highlighted how sports gambling will draw new patrons to Kentucky’s storied racetracks, stimulating tourism and the state’s financial well-being. This, he added, will further cement the heritage of Kentucky’s renowned horse racing sector.
CDI has already pinpointed six venues for their horse racing and sports wagering activities. Furthermore, they have obtained the requisite permits to provide online sports betting as well. They have collaborated with three prominent entities in the online sports betting realm: FanDuel, Fanatics, and Penn Sports Interactive. All of these platforms will be operational and accepting wagers commencing on September 28th.
With legalized sports betting imminent, Kentucky is abuzz with preparations. Operators are diligently finalizing arrangements. DraftKings, as an example, recently secured an agreement with ECL Corbin, signifying their entrance into the Kentucky market.
