Daktronics Technology Installed at Churchill Downs

Churchill Downs, in Louisville, KY, installed another Daktronics video display so patrons, wherever seated, didn’t miss any Derby action during the 133rd “Run for the Roses” on May 5. The approximately 12-ft. x 16- ft. ProStar® video display helped provide racing fans at the Kentucky Derby, including Queen Elizabeth II, a good look at Street Sense pulling ahead from 19th place to win.

“Daktronics is excited to be the LED-technology supplier for this historic track once again,” said Bo Ivers, Daktronics pari-mutuel manager.

The new video display replaced an older one in the racetrack’s paddock area, where the horses are assembled, saddled and paraded before each race. Churchill Downs uses the new display to run live video clips of the races for standing-room only crowds that fill the paddock and infield for high-profile events. The video board’s LED technology’s brightness withstands even direct sunlight so that fans in the paddock view the same exciting details as people seated trackside. This visibility, in addition to wide viewing angles, powerful image processing and a 4.4 trillion-color capability, enrich the racing experience.

Daktronics technology has assisted Churchill Downs to deliver essential information to racing fans since 1993. Fourteen years ago, Daktronics designed and manufactured two electronic tote board digit displays installed in the infield winner’s circle and the digits for the odds board overlooking the paddock area. In 1997, the company also designed and manufactured two incandescent message displays installed in the same area as the tote boards. As part of Churchill Downs’ 2003 renovation, Daktronics provided two video boards that the racetrack uses to run odds, live video and instant replays.