Churchill to Unveil New HD Graphics for 2009 Spring Meet

Apr 24, 2009 Jennifer Stevens

Churchill Downs, which became the first racetrack in the United States to offer simulcasting in high definition (“HD”) last year, will unveil a new graphics package designed specifically for the HD experience when racing returns on Saturday, April 25.

“We were very pleased with the reception that our high-definition signal received last fall, and the positive feedback from customers both on-track and at simulcasting outlets across the country convinced us to move forward with this redesign,” said Kevin Flanery, senior vice president for Churchill Downs Incorporated.  “Our customers were instrumental in helping to create this new look for the Churchill Downs signal through their recommendations and suggestions.  Our ambition is to provide them with the best possible experience when wagering with Churchill Downs, and we believe the new design of and added information within this new HD graphics package will move us closer to that goal.”

Churchill’s new graphics package will be available on both high and standard definition signals.  The new design features bold colors and easy-to-read information in a clean, streamlined presentation, created to maximize visibility and improve the overall end-user experience.  Because high definition offers additional viewing space in the widescreen 16:9 format, the new design eliminates the standard HD “side panels,” shifting the main screen to right and using the additional screen space for exclusive wagering and handicapping information from BRIS.  While this information will not be displayed on traditional standard-definition televisions in order to prevent distortion, both signals will include the same handicapping and wagering information that has historically been available.

The new Churchill Downs graphics were designed by Reality Check out of Los Angeles.  The studio has extensive experience in HD brand-quality graphics, and has designed for ESPN, CBS, FOX, the National Football League, and Major League Baseball.  The look of the new package and the information included was developed based on customer research and feedback.

Churchill Downs continues to work with simulcast outlets across the country to make the HD experience available to as many customers as possible.  “We look forward to continuing our expansion into high definition and making additional improvements,” Flanery added.  “We remain open to any interest from simulcast outlets that may want to offer the Churchill Downs signal in high definition, and look forward to working with them to continue enhancing our product.”

Churchill Downs, the world’s most legendary racetrack, has conducted Thoroughbred racing and presented America’s greatest race, the Kentucky Derby, continuously since 1875. Located in Louisville, the flagship racetrack of Churchill Downs Incorporated (NASDAQ Global Select Market: CHDN) also operates Trackside at Churchill Downs, which offers year-round simulcast wagering at the historic track. Churchill Downs will conduct the 135th running of the Kentucky Derby on May 2, 2009.  The track’s 2009 Spring Meet will take place from April 25 through July 5.  Churchill Downs is scheduled to host the Breeders’ Cup World Championships for a record seventh time on Nov. 5 and 6, 2010.  Information about Churchill Downs can be found on the Internet at www.churchilldowns.com.