First online horse racing bets accepted in Maine

All bets are being placed through Penn National-owned Hollywood Races.

US.- The first online bets on horse racing having been placed in the US state of Maine after the state’s Gambling Control Board gave the green light last week.

Whilst racing in Maine itself is still off-limits due to Covid-19 lockdown orders, bettors have started to wager on races online for the first time.

All bets are being placed through Penn National-owned Hollywood Races, which went live last week in the state.

In a statement, Penn National VP of Racing, Christopher McErlean, said: “We are excited to bring this form of gaming to Maine.

“This is a tried and tested use of technology for more people to get excited about the sport of horse racing, any time of day, any day of the year, and allows Mainers to enjoy races taking place across the world from the comfort of their own home.

“With more and more racing coming back around the world, this is nice timing for any racing enthusiast in Maine who has missed visiting simulcast wagering facilities, OTBs, or the tracks.

“Importantly, a percentage of revenues from Hollywood Races will go to the state and support the harness racing industry in Maine, similar to what is in place at Hollywood Casino.”

In April, it was reported that horse racing wagering had dramatically increased in the US since the pandemic.