Sportsbook operator William Hill US and Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino are aiming to get ahead of the curve should Ohio become one of the growing number of states to offer legal sports betting. The two organizations have paired up in what they described as “…an innovative partnership that makes William Hill the casino’s official sportsbook operator” if and when sports wagering is sanctioned in the state.
Pending Iowa sports betting legislation and regulatory approvals, William Hill will operate a more than 8,600 square foot sports book on the casino’s Level 4, near the property’s racing center. The area will feature a new bar surrounded by state-of-the-art video wall technology for viewing sporting events, complete with live betting odds.
Hill CEO Joe Asher explained: “We are excited about the prospect of sports betting in Iowa and are thrilled to partner with Prairie Meadows to be ready for the day when sports betting is legal in the state. We are building a first-class sports book that will make Prairie Meadows the place to bet and watch the games.”
“Prairie Meadows is thrilled to partner with William Hill, the best name in sports betting, to establish a world-class sports betting experience for our guests,” said Gary Palmer, President and CEO of Prairie Meadows.
Brad Rhines, Senior Vice President and Chief Strategic Officer at the facility, added: “We are excited to expand our resort offerings with a fully renovated clubhouse that includes both our racing center and new William Hill sports book. Once the legislative process is complete, this innovative partnership will provide many fun and unique sports betting options for our guests.”
Ohio Democratic state senator Sean O’Brien has been working for several months to attract co-sponsors for a bill that would legalize sports betting throughout the state.