Churchill shifts simulcast site

Churchill Downs is temporarily moving its primary offtrack simulcasting operations to its former longtime base, the Trackside simulcast annex, during the three-week Keeneland meet, April 7-28. The track said the switch is to prepare the main Churchill facility better for the April 29 opening of the spring meet without inconveniencing customers.

Churchill took over from Trackside as host of off-season simulcasting last July. Business has decreased markedly since then, slipping about 15 percent from corresponding 2004-05 figures, according to track officials.

Both Churchill and Trackside will be open during the first weekend of Keeneland. Also, the Gold Room on the sixth floor at Churchill will remain open for high-level Twin Spires Club members for the entire Keeneland meet.