Gamblers along the Gulf Coast have something to cheer about today. The Palace Casino Resort in Biloxi, Mississippi, is opening the first race book on the Gulf Coast and it comes just ahead of the Triple Crown Races, which will kick off with the Kentucky Derby on May 4. The race book follows the launch of the CONTACT sportsbook last August.
According to a press release, the race book will allow patrons to place bets on nationwide horseracing events using either self-service terminals or through teller windows. The release explains, “Guests will be able to place wagers every day on nationwide horse racing events at teller windows and at self-service terminals located in the newly renamed CONTACT Sports & Race Book. House rules and well-trained tellers are available to assist guests with common and more advanced wagers.”
Palace GM Keith Crosby adds, “We’re thrilled to be able to bring pari-mutuel wagering on horse racing to the Mississippi Gulf Coast… This is a project we have worked on for several years, and we are excited to offer our guests the best possible wagering opportunities on all major U.S. tracks.” He adds that the venue is forming partnerships with three national content providers and will add more options based on customer feedback.
The goal behind the race book is to create a seamless betting experience available for all major U.S. race track events. The system to be used at the Palace is being facilitated by United Tote, a company owned by Churchill Downs. That system has already been tested and is now operational.
Palace is owned by Robert and Lawana Low, owners and breeders of Thoroughbred horses. The couple operates a 300-acre farm, “Primatara,” in Springfield, Missouri and have owned several winning racers. Magnum Moon, the 2018 Arkansas Derby (G1) winner and Kentucky Derby contender, Real Cozzy, G1 winner Capote Belle and 2006 Kentucky Derby third-place finisher Steppenwolfer all have belonged to the Lows.
The sportsbook at Palace is operated by William Hill. It is located in the Contact Lounge & Sports Bar at the casino. With the addition of the race book, the sportsbook is now receiving a new name, the Contact Sports and Race Book.
