Kentucky sports betting handle hits $250m mark
Governor’s office lauds strong market debut, revealing 500,000 mobile sportsbook accounts have been created since September's launch
Kentucky’s combined retail and online sports betting operators have racked up $250m in handle since the launch of sports betting in September, the state’s Governor’s office has revealed.
According to estimates released by Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear’s office, $15.7m in handle has been collected by retail sports book operators in the Bluegrass State since the regulated retail market went live on September 7.
Latest estimates provided by the same office state that more than $232.3m has been wagered on mobile and online since the regulated online sportsbook market opened on September 28.
Beshear’s office has also confirmed that almost 500,000 betting accounts have been set up with mobile and online operators since market launch.
“Kentucky is approaching $250 million wagered. That is a strong number that certainly reflects excitement for the opening of sports wagering,” Kentucky Governor Beshear said in a press release.
“It has taken many years to get here, but sports wagering is finally a reality in Kentucky. This is a win-win for Kentuckians, who can enjoy a quality entertainment experience and benefit from funds staying right here in our state to help us build a better Kentucky,” he added.
Officials in Kentucky have revealed that in-person wagering will soon begin at the Sandy’s Gaming and Racing facility in Ashland, where a 5,200 sq ft retail sportsbook will open in partnership with BetMGM on October 26.
In comments accompanying the Governor’s office release, Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (KHRC) chairman Jonathan Rabinowitz lifted the lid on the regulator’s impressions of sports betting gleaned from resident Kentuckians.
“We are hearing very positive feedback from both our licensees and people wagering in Kentucky,” Rabinowitz said.
“Thanks to the dedication and hard work of the team, this launch has exceeded our expectations. Our work continues to protect the bettors in the state and support the best customer experience,” the KHRC chairman added.