Churchill Downs, which became the first racetrack in the United States to
offer simulcasting in high definition (“HD”) last year, will unveil a new
graphics package designed specifically for the HD experience when racing returns
on Saturday.
“We were very pleased with the reception that our high-definition signal
received last fall, and the positive feedback from customers both on-track and
at simulcasting outlets across the country convinced us to move forward with
this redesign,” said Kevin Flanery, senior vice president for Churchill Downs
Inc. “Our customers were instrumental in helping to create this new look for the
Churchill Downs signal through their recommendations and suggestions. Our
ambition is to provide them with the best possible experience when wagering with
Churchill Downs, and we believe the new design of and added information within
this new HD graphics package will move us closer to that goal.”
Churchill’s new graphics package will be available on both high and standard
definition signals. The new design features bold colors and easy-to-read
information in a clean, streamlined presentation, created to maximize visibility
and improve the overall end-user experience. Because high definition offers
additional viewing space in the widescreen 16:9 format, the new design
eliminates the standard HD “side panels,” shifting the main screen to right and
using the additional screen space for exclusive wagering and handicapping
information from BRIS. While this information will not be displayed on
traditional standard-definition televisions in order to prevent distortion, both
signals will include the same handicapping and wagering information that has
historically been available.
The new Churchill Downs graphics were designed by Reality Check out of Los
Angeles. The studio has extensive experience in HD brand-quality graphics, and
has designed for ESPN, CBS, FOX, the National Football League and Major League
Baseball. The look of the new package and the information included was developed
based on customer research and feedback.
Churchill Downs continues to work with simulcast outlets across the country
to make the HD experience available to as many customers as possible.
“We look forward to continuing our expansion into high definition and making
additional improvements,” Flanery added. “We remain open to any interest from
simulcast outlets that may want to offer the Churchill Downs signal in high
definition, and look forward to working with them to continue enhancing our
product.”