While these gambling laws of Kentucky have been explicitly clear, the lines have been blurred recently due to horse racing tracks introducing the Historical Horse Racing Machines (HHR machines) beginning in 2011. With that said, horse racing wagering is the only type of gambling that is legal in the state of Kentucky (excluding charitable gaming and the state lottery) and is regulated by section 528 of the Kentucky statutes and the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (KHRC). Wagering is the main appeal for horse racing fans, and it is what has kept the sport alive in an age where professional team sports dominate the sporting industry. The overall economic impact the industry has on Kentucky is extensive, accounting for thousands of jobs and millions in revenue, with wagering revenue accounting for a substantial amount. Patrons pick horses for a multitude of reasons, such as recent horse performance, favorite trainer or jockey, or their favorite color worn by the horse and jockey. Fans flock to the betting windows at Churchill Downs, Keeneland, and Red Mile to bet on the races they are spectating, or even other races at different tracks through simulcasting. Along with “bourbon” and “fried chicken,” Kentucky is interconnected with the horse racing industry and is commonly known as the “Horse Capital of the World.” Gambling has always been an integral part of horse racing in Kentucky ever since tracks began to open in 1875.

If you ask the average American what Kentucky is known for, the words “horse racing” are a likely answer to follow.

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