HENDERSON, Ky. — In a multi-million dollar agreement, Churchill Downs Incorporated said it has plans to obtain even more racing and gaming in Kentucky. This time, in Henderson. It’s a move many people say is exciting. 

What You Need To Know

  • Churchill Downs is acquiring Ellis Park Racing in Henderson for $79 million

  • The deal is contingent upon approval from the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission

  • Local and state leaders are optimistic that a nationally-known brand like Churchill Downs can really reinvigorate the track and local economy

  • Plans also include building Owensboro Racing and Gaming, a track extension and entertainment venue at Owensboro's town square mall

With $79 Million in cash in hand, Churchill Downs Incorporated said it inked a definitive deal to acquire Ellis Park Racing and Gaming. It is located just north of the Ohio River, in Henderson. Churchill Downs Incorporated would acquire it from Enchantment Holdings. 

“I think anytime you can become partners with a company with as much global recognition and financial wherewithal as Churchill Downs, it’s got to be good for a place like Ellis Park.” Brad Schneider, Henderson County’s judge executive explained to Spectrum News. “There is no more permanent a brand in thoroughbred racing than Churchill Downs. So, I thought it was great.”

Ellis park recently celebrated 100 years of racing this year. People in the community believe the announcement is an enormous boost for the community and its economy.

“I know a lot of people here who go to college, got their tuition money paid for by working part time at Ellis park in the Summer. I hope that tradition continues as well. For lots of reasons, for lots of the companies that do business with Ellis Park, this is a good thing. So, I do believe it’ll have a positive, really positive impact here.” Schneider explained.

Churchill Downs Incorporated said it has started planning to make critical investments in Ellis Park’s racing infrastructure, as well as to build Owensboro Racing and Gaming, a track extension and entertainment venue at Owensboro’s town square mall. That venue will have 600 historic racing machines, a simulcast wagering center, plus food and drink options.

“I’m eager to see how quickly Churchill Downs can move to actually make this all come to fruition. I know it’ll take time, but to see activity right away in improving both the look of the track and other good reasons to come even when the live meet’s not in session are, I think, all positive signs. I hope they succeed wildly in their off-track parlor over in Owensboro.” Schneider explained.

According to Churchill Downs Incorporated, the agreement closing depends on approval by the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission. If that change of control is approved, the companies involved expect to close on the deal a short time after that.

Several leaders released statements about the announcement via a press release provided by Churchill Downs Incorporated:

“This is an exciting announcement for the horse racing industry, the cities of Henderson and Owensboro, and the entire Commonwealth of Kentucky,” said Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear. “Churchill Downs has proven it has the experience, resources and desire to reinvigorate Ellis Park into a premier racing destination and provide unmatched gaming entertainment.”

“We are very enthused to welcome Ellis Park to the Churchill Downs racing family,” said Bill Carstanjen, CEO of CDI. “Our team is committed to building a summer meet at the ‘Pea Patch’ that keeps more Kentucky-bred horses and Kentucky-based trainers’ in their home state while attracting top horse racing talent from across the country to the Bluegrass State each July and August.”

“Churchill Downs Incorporated is a proven partner in communities it already operates in, providing both entertainment and economic development benefits,” Kentucky House Speaker David Osborne said. “This acquisition is also a boost to one of our state’s signature industries and the direct result of legislation we passed to help make our tracks more competitive. Churchill Downs’ commitment to a year-round horse racing circuit in the Commonwealth is not only a smart business move, but also necessary to sustain and grow an industry that provides 80,000 jobs and millions to local and state economies.”

“Churchill Downs Incorporated is stepping up to the plate as we push towards our common goal of ensuring Kentucky has the strongest year-round horse racing circuit in the country,” said Kentucky State Sen. Damon Thayer. “With Churchill Downs’ commitment to upgrading the racetrack infrastructure and enhancing the experience for equestrians and visitors, Ellis Park will now become an even better choice for summer racing. Investments like this were partly made possible by the great work of the General Assembly to adopt SB 120 in 2021. I look forward to continuing our work of bolstering Kentucky’s signature equine industry in coming legislative sessions.” 

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