The famed horse racing company, Churchill Downs Incorporated, is expanding its reach into New Hampshire with the purchase of the Chasers Poker Room. While poker is part of the equation, the real story is the introduction of historical horse racing to the state. Opened in 2017, Chasers is poised to transform into a center for this novel form of wagering. In 2021, New Hampshire opened the door for existing charitable gaming establishments to incorporate historical horse racing. Recognizing a promising venture, Churchill Downs intends to undertake a significant enlargement in Salem to house historical horse racing terminals. Chief Executive Bill Carstanjen expresses eagerness to bring their proficiency to the expanding New England market. Naturally, the agreement awaits approval from the New Hampshire Lottery Commission, but should it receive the green light, anticipate a fresh age of gaming in Salem!
The Granite State is on track to be the fourth location where Churchill Downs Inc. will oversee live equine competitions. This follows Kentucky, Virginia (after the Peninsula Pacific Entertainment purchase), and Louisiana (pending HRM expansion completion) – should existing proposals succeed.
New Hampshire regulations stipulate that a percentage of charitable gaming revenue be distributed to authorized non-profit groups within the state.