Churchill Downs will open a new on-track simulcast area on Wednesday, Jan. 16 with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for 11 a.m. The Parlay, named after the gambling term to use winnings from one wager to make on another wager, is housed on the first floor in what used to be the Churchill Downs Inc. offices and what will become the track’s media operations during the live racing meet. For those unfamiliar with the track layout, the Parlay is in the building across from the paddock stage used during the fall meet and below the jocks room, on the Kentucky Derby Museum side of the paddock.
The Parlay is a newly-renovated 14,000 square foot facility that boasts walls of 42 televisions with 70” high-definition screens, plus 18 32” screen televisions in other areas throughout the facility. The 600 capacity venue includes a 24-foot bar and “grab-and-go” food service offering sandwiches, soups, salads, and snacks. Seating will be available at the bar, in a lounge area, and at 320 individual carrels. The venue will also house the TSC Elite Gold Room for high-roller VIP players.
“We are excited to unveil The Parlay and believe off-track betting patrons will share our enthusiasm,” said Ryan Jordan, Churchill Downs Race Track General Manager. “It is a beautiful facility filled with large televisions that provide vivid images of races from North American tracks and major international events. The Parlay will provide our OTB patrons with quick and convenient access to food, beverages and a full-range of amenities.
“This versatile new venue is a right-sized space for our simulcast wagering audience. It will enable our team to more effectively serve our patrons and will allow greater efficiency throughout our OTB operations.”
Beginning April 1 and through the remainder of the spring meet, Churchill Downs’ media operations will overtake the Parlay and simulcast wagering will move to its previous location on the second-floor Clubhouse near the food court. Simulcast wagering will remain there during Churchill Downs’ three live meets which will run Apr. 27 – Jun. 30, Sept. 5-29, and Oct. 27 – Nov. 30.
Simulcasting is available Wednesday through Sunday. Admission for adults is $3 and seniors (age 60+) $1. Guests should enter at Gate 1 next to the Kentucky Derby Museum. Free parking is available at Gate 1.
Photos: Churchill Downs
