Churchill Downs will open its new multipurpose, on-track simulcast venue The Parlay Jan. 16. The approximately 14,000 square-foot facility will accommodate 600 patrons. The venue includes the TSC Elite Gold Room, an area dedicated to Churchill Downs' VIP players.
The Parlay is located on the track's first floor at its Gate 1 entrance off Central Avenue. Patrons will enter the venue via the track's admission gates located adjacent to the Kentucky Derby Museum. Ample free parking is available in lots near the Gate 1 entrance.
While The Parlay will be home to Churchill Downs' simulcasting product during the months outside of its live racing meets, it also will house the track's media operations in the weeks leading up to the 2013 Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) and Kentucky Oaks (gr. I) and during its three live racing meets.
"We are excited to unveil The Parlay and believe off-track betting patrons will share our enthusiasm," said Ryan Jordan, CDRT 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.
The Parlay is one of four capital projects valued at $9 million launched in mid-2012 by CDRT. The others are: The Mansion, a distinctive hospitality venue set for early spring completion; the Plaza, an open-air space adjacent to the Paddock and Gate 1 that opened during the 2012 Fall Meet; and a second-floor Clubhouse Gold Room, which was unveiled in August, 2012 and will continue to serve VIP players during live racing meets.
Foremost among the amenities available to off-track betting patrons in The Parlay are 42 televisions equipped with massive 70-inch, high-definition screens that fill the walls throughout the venue. Additionally, there are 18 32-inch TVs positioned around the facility.
The Parlay features a 24-foot bar and a food service area that will offer grab-and-go sandwiches, soups, salads and other OTB fare.
The 600-person capacity includes 320 individual carrels and table seating. There also is seating at the bar and some lounge chair seats will be available.
Churchill Downs will continue its Wednesday-through-Sunday simulcast schedule in The Parlay, depending on availability of signals. The daily admission price remains at $3 and $1 for seniors ages 60 and up. Admission gates will open at 11:30 a.m. (all times Eastern) unless otherwise noted.
