NASCAR And Casinos Could Mix-In Kentucky?

Earlier this month a new Hollywood Casino opened in Kansas. That event alone isn’t very interesting, but the location is. The new gaming palace overlooks turn two of Kansas Speedway. This interests me for several reasons. First of all, I’ve never heard of auto racing and casinos mixing unless it happens in Monte Carlo. Next, I’m intrigued that the subject hasn’t come up here in Kentucky—yet.

With new proposed gaming legislation allowing up to seven casinos across the commonwealth, is it possible we could see one at Kentucky Speedway? I really don’t know because I don’t think the question has been asked yet. It makes a lot of sense because the speedway is centrally located, and after parking and road upgrades could handle any casino crowd. The only caveat causing trouble would be the 60 mile distance from any existing gaming. But think about this. Leave Lexington out of the mix for a casino, and put the casino in the speedway. Close enough to draw from Lexington, Cincinnati and Louisville. Now this would also knock out Turfway Park if the 60 mile limit is maintained, but there are such thing as waivers that could certainly make it possible.

I just hope someone asks if this is even possible. Might be fun to hear politicians and other folks try to stammer out answers.