Kentucky is set to introduce two new Historical Horse Racing (HHR) venues, operated by Churchill Downs and a joint venture between Kentucky Downs and Keeneland. These venues will add over 1,200 machines to the state, offering players the opportunity to engage with slot-like machines that utilize horse racing data to determine betting outcomes. The approval for HHR machines was granted in 2020, although they have been in operation for more than a decade.
New HHR Venues in Kentucky:
1:Churchill Downs at Turfway Park:
Churchill Downs will operate a new venue at Turfway Park near Florence.
The facility will feature 800 HHR machines, providing players with an exciting gaming experience.
Alongside the gaming options, the venue will offer two restaurants, enhancing the overall entertainment value for visitors.
2:Joint Venture between Kentucky Downs and Keeneland in Williamsburg:
A joint venture between Kentucky Downs and Keeneland will establish a new venue in Williamsburg.
This will be the first historical horse racing hub in Eastern Kentucky.
The venue will include a restaurant and a bar, creating a vibrant and social atmosphere for patrons.
Impact of HHR Machines in Kentucky:
1:Wagering Statistics:
In the 2021-22 fiscal year, over $6.8 billion was wagered on HHR machines in Kentucky.
June records showed 5,569 machines across seven tracks and satellite facilities in the state, generating nearly $592 million in revenue for the fiscal year.
2:Ellis Park Off-Track Betting Site in Owensboro:
Ellis Park received approval to construct an off-track betting site in Owensboro.
The non-contiguous extension, situated in the Towne Square Mall development, will house hundreds of historical horse racing machines.
The facility, set to open in early 2023, will feature 600 HHR machines, expanding the gaming offerings in the region.
Expanding Historical Horse Racing:
1:Exacta Systems Launches HHR System in New Hampshire:
Exacta Systems introduced its HHR system at Ocean Gaming Casino in New Hampshire.
The launch included 50 terminals featuring popular gaming providers such as IGT, AGS, and IntuiCode.
Tax revenue generated from HHR wagers in New Hampshire contributes to the New Hampshire Education Trust Fund and local charitable organizations.
Kentucky’s introduction of two new Historical Horse Racing venues, operated by Churchill Downs and a joint venture between Kentucky Downs and Keeneland, signifies the growth of the HHR industry in the state. With over 1,200 machines set to engage players in an innovative gaming experience, these venues will enhance the overall entertainment offerings in Kentucky. The success of HHR machines, as demonstrated by significant wagering statistics, showcases the appeal and economic impact of this form of gambling. As HHR systems continue to expand to new states like New Hampshire, it is evident that they are gaining popularity and contributing to various local initiatives.