In a strategic location at the junction of U.S. Highway 60 and Wrights Landing Road, the new Owensboro Racing & Gaming complex officially opens on Wednesday, February 12. This sprawling 20-acre site is now home to a state-of-the-art facility designed to transform local entertainment and boost regional economic activity. The venue, complete with advanced gaming technology and multiple dining options, is set to become a cornerstone of leisure in Owensboro.
Churchill Downs enhances Kentucky’s gaming landscape:
Managed by Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI), a titan in the racing industry, Owensboro Racing & Gaming is the latest addition to the company’s expanding portfolio in Kentucky. This facility is not just another gaming venue; it serves as a critical extension of the Ellis Park racetrack located in Henderson, linking two significant locations in Kentucky’s horse racing network.
With an investment totalling approximately $100 million, the new facility covers 71,500 square feet and is projected to influence the regional economy with an annual impact estimated at $125 million. The construction phase alone has provided 200 jobs, and the operational phase has introduced 150 permanent job opportunities, significantly benefiting the local workforce. General Manager Steve Roof elaborated on the extensive employment opportunities generated over the past year due to this project.
Owensboro Racing & Gaming is equipped with 600 historical racing machines, thoughtfully distributed across smoking and non-smoking sections to cater to all guests. The non-smoking area houses 350 machines, while the smoking section includes 250. According to Spectrum News, Roof praised the sophisticated HVAC system, saying: “Our HVAC system will push in clean air and pull out smokey air. This will also be negatively pressurized, so the clean air from the non-smoking can come in here, but the smoky air cannot go out to the non-gaming room.”
A distinctive feature of the venue is a mural composed ofevery Kentucky Derby logo, reflecting the rich history of one of the most prestigious horse racing events. This decoration complements the historical racing machines, which allow patrons to wager on races from various Derby events throughout history, from the very first to recent races.
Comprehensive betting and support for the racing economy:
The venue’s offerings extend beyond historical racing machines to include retail sports wagering and simulcast betting on horse races, providing a full spectrum of betting experiences. These features are designed to support purse funding for Ellis Park’s summer racing meet, ensuring a sustainable future for horse racing in the region.
The launch of Owensboro Racing & Gaming marks a key milestone in CDI’s strategic expansion across the United States. Following the opening of other properties like Rosie’s Emporia in Virginia and ahead of the upcoming Rose Gaming Resort, CDI continues to enhance its network of historical racing and gaming venues. This expansion is backed by strong financial results, with CDI reporting a significant increase in revenue and adjusted EBITDA in its latest quarterly report, emphasizing the success of its growth strategy.
CDI’s investment in Owensboro and other locations underscores its commitment to revitalizing and sustaining the horse racing industry in Kentucky. The state has shown strong support for historical horse racing venues, which play a crucial role in funding live horse racing events and contributing to the local economy.
