Excitement filled the air Monday afternoon as elected officials and Churchill Downs leadership joined community members for an exclusive preview of Owensboro Racing & Gaming ahead of its official grand opening to the public. The event featured speeches from key leaders and a first look at the highly anticipated gaming and entertainment venue.
The public grand opening will kick off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 a.m. Wednesday, followed by a special donation presentation by Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) to Fight Like a Dozer and The Opportunity Center, two local nonprofit organizations.
Located at 460 Wrights Landing Road, the $100 million gaming and entertainment complex features 600 state-of-the-art historical racing machines, a retail sportsbook, simulcast wagering, and multiple dining and beverage options. The facility is expected to generate $125 million in annual regional economic impact. It will operate as an annex of Ellis Park, supporting the racetrack’s traditional summer meet in Henderson.
The first 1,000 guests in attendance Wednesday will receive branded trucker hats, and the grand opening festivities will continue throughout the day with live entertainment, food trucks, and the official launch of Trackside Kitchen, Starting Gate, and Center Bar.
A soft opening was held Monday night, during which several elected officials and community members got a first look at the facility. Daviess County Commissioner Janie Marksberry and Kentucky Horse Racing Commission Chairman Jon Rabinowitz placed the inaugural bets at 4:27 p.m.
Owensboro Racing & Gaming General Manager Steve Roof, a Kentucky Wesleyan College graduate, expressed gratitude to those who contributed to the facility’s development.
“This has been a journey,” Roof said. “We owe this moment to the unwavering support of our elected officials, community partners, and our incredible team members. Owensboro Racing & Gaming is more than just a venue – it’s a world-class experience that brings the best in gaming, dining, sports betting, and horse racing right here to Daviess County.”
Roof emphasized the facility’s economic contributions, including 220 permanent jobs and its role in supporting local businesses and nonprofit organizations. He also highlighted the significance of Fight Like a Dozer, which assists families with children battling pediatric cancer, and The Opportunity Center, which provides resources for individuals with disabilities.
“(Fight Like a Dozer) touches me personally because my 7-year-old grandson just finished his five-year cancer-free journey,” Roof said. “We’re honored to support these organizations that make such a profound impact.”
Churchill Downs Incorporated CEO Bill Carstanjen echoed Roof’s sentiments, acknowledging the hard work behind the project.
“This is a proud day for Churchill Downs,” Carstanjen said. “A project like this requires an immense amount of effort from a lot of people over an extended period. It’s incredibly humbling to come into this community and see the finished product. We hope this facility becomes a jewel for Owensboro and an integral part of the community.”
Carstanjen noted the broader impact of the facility on the horse racing industry, as a portion of all wagers placed will be reinvested into Kentucky’s thoroughbred industry.
“This investment is about more than just this building – it supports Ellis Park, Kentucky’s racing circuit, and the agricultural community surrounding it,” he said. “Every bet placed here contributes to growing the horse industry across the state.”
State Senator Gary Boswell praised the development for its job creation and economic impact.
“This project has been over a year in the making, and tonight, we get to see the vision come to reality,” Boswell said. “Anytime we have a chance to celebrate more jobs and opportunities for Daviess County, I’m thrilled to be a part of it.”
State Rep. Suzanne Miles emphasized the facility’s strategic location between Ellis Park and Churchill Downs, calling it an asset for the region.
“This location puts us in a great spot for people traveling through our area,” Miles said. “We’re grateful for Churchill Downs’ investment in this community and the people of Daviess County.”
Marksberry highlighted the significance of government collaboration in fostering business growth.
“This facility is a prime example of the economic opportunities available when government steps out of the way and allows the private sector to flourish,” she said. “I am excited for the impact this project will have on horse racing and tourism both locally and statewide.”
Rabinowitz stressed the broader implications of gaming revenue in the state.
“In 2024 alone, Kentucky saw a wagering handle of more than $13.2 billion,” Rabinowitz said. “Revenue from facilities like Owensboro Racing & Gaming contributes to everything from equine drug research to funding scholarships for Kentucky students. This facility represents another step forward for the thoroughbred industry.”
As Owensboro Racing & Gaming prepares to open its doors to the public, officials and community members alike anticipate its long-term benefits.
“This is a great day for Owensboro, a great day for Kentucky, and a great day for the future of racing and gaming,” Rabinowitz said. “We look forward to seeing this facility thrive and contribute to the continued success of our industry.”
