Churchill Downs Incorporated: Expanding the Gaming and Entertainment Empire
Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) recently celebrated the grand opening of a new Rosie’s Gaming Emporium in Emporia, Virginia. The venue boasts 150 Historical Horse Racing (HHR) terminals, resembling slot machines but utilizing results from previous races. Amenities include a dedicated space for virtual races, a dining establishment, and a beverage service area. To commemorate the occasion, CDI generously contributed $25,000 to five local charitable organizations.
This latest addition in Emporia brings the total count of Rosie’s Gaming Emporiums to seven, with rumors circulating of further expansion plans.
CDI has been actively expanding its portfolio, making significant strides in the corporate realm. In August, they finalized the acquisition of Exacta Systems, a prominent player in HHR technology. This $250 million transaction is projected to solidify CDI’s position in the HHR market and enhance operational efficiency.
In November 2022, CDI partnered with DraftKings, the fantasy sports leader, to introduce DK Horse, a dedicated mobile application for wagering on horse races.
However, CDI remains committed to prioritizing safety, particularly following a series of equine injuries that led to a temporary suspension of racing activities at Churchill Downs Racetrack in June 2023. This decision was made in collaboration with the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (KHRC) and the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA).
Looking towards the future, CDI is focused on developing new entertainment venues. They recently unveiled plans to construct a cutting-edge HHR entertainment complex in eastern Daviess County, Kentucky.
This brand-new establishment is going to be incredible! It will feature all the HHR entertainment options you adore, in addition to simultaneous race broadcasts, fantastic dining and beverage choices… essentially, everything required for an enjoyable experience. CDI is truly excelling with their development strategies – their growth is phenomenal! Their earnings in 2021 reached an astounding $1.59 billion, representing a 52% surge compared to the preceding year. Furthermore, their modified EBITDA achieved an unprecedented $627 million. Their success is remarkable!