Expanded Gaming Coming To West KY Racetrack
The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission has approved the first expanded gambling games at a state horse track.
Kentucky Downs in western Kentucky wants to implement the game in which gamblers bet on old horse races – without names of the horses, jockeys and trainers – using slot-like devices. The game is known as Instant Racing at Oaklawn Park in Arkansas, where it has been a strong moneymaker since it began a decade ago.
Kentucky Downs President Corey Johnsen said the track plans to invest $3 million and hire 85 workers to implement the game. The commission approved the request by a voice vote with no opposition.
The devices could possibly be in operation when the Franklin track near the Tennessee border begins its meet Sept. 10.
