Operator News
US – Sandy’s Racing and Gaming to open as East Kentucky’s first gaming venue
By Phil - 24 October 2023
Doors will open in two weeks at Eastern Kentucky’s first gaming and entertainment center, a $75m investment creating nearly 250 new jobs and generating millions of dollars in new tax revenues.
Sandy’s Racing and Gaming is set to open to the public on October 26 with eager players anticipated to be lined up even earlier.
“With a world-class gaming floor, locally sourced dining options, multiple entertainment stages and an unbelievable BetMGM sportsbook lounge, Sandy’s will be the area’s premier entertainment destination,” said John Marshall, President of Sandy’s Racing & Gaming. “There is nothing else like Sandy’s and we can’t wait for everyone to experience it.”
Those over 21 will be able to play nearly 700 slot-like games, enjoy nightly musical performances, watch live sporting events on three cinema-sized screens, all while indulging in a Big Sandy’s Burger, Sandy’s Ale and Sandy’s soon-to-be-famous homemade pies.
Construction on the 75,000 square-foot gaming facility, located at 10699 U.S. 60 in Ashland, began in April and is led by Kentucky-based D.W. Wilburn Construction and the Tri-State Building Trades. More than 300 local union workers were employed throughout the project and 90% of all materials and supplies were made in the U.S. When the doors open, Sandy’s will employ nearly 250 additional local residents.
“We are incredibly proud to be part of the Tri-State community and even more proud to support the area with new jobs and new tax revenues,” said Larry Lucas, Chairman of Revolutionary Racing, which is leading the project in partnership with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and the Kentucky Quarter Horse Racing Association.
Sandy’s Racing & Gaming will feature Kentucky’s first quarter horse racetrack, equestrian center and gaming facility. Construction on Sandy Ridge – the racetrack that will be located on 182 acres behind the gaming facility – is set to begin in early 2024, with the first races anticipated to happen there in 2025.
