(Edited press release)
In November 2009, Charles Town Races & Slots will join a select group of racetracks offering live racing to its on-track customers in high definition.
Charles Town follows in the footsteps of Keeneland and Churchill Downs who became the first tracks to upgrade its production to HD in the fall of 2008. Barring any setbacks, Charles Town expects the high definition system to be operational for its races on Nov. 25.
Charles Town’s HD signal will offer on-track customers a much improved viewing of its races through a full 16:9 high definition format. Outside of the signal itself, graphical displays exhibiting racing and wagering information will be presented in high definition as well.
“We’re leveraging the VLT’s success into another substantial improvement to our overall, finished racing product,” said Erich Zimny, racing administrator at Charles Town. “Watching sports, especially racing, in high definition is a big enhancement for both the core and casual fan’s experience.”
Following the changeover to high definition, overseen by Teleview Racing Patrol, more than 200 televisions at Charles Town Races & Slots will benefit from the HD signal. Over half of the monitors receiving the upgraded signal are located in the Skyline Terrace restaurant, which overlooks the track.
Nearly 130 personal televisions located at the Terrace’s dining tables will offer patrons the opportunity to watch Charles Town’s races in high definition, as well as racing and sporting events from around the country. Owners’ boxes will also be equipped with televisions supporting the HD signal. The remainder of the monitors will be spread around the main simulcasting areas on the first floor of the facility. The switch to high definition will be overseen and conducted by Teleview Racing Patrol.