Gaming software developer Castle Hill Gaming has announced its first installation of Historic Horse Racing (HHR) machines in Kentucky with the firm placing 24 machines at the Ellis Park race track.

In a statement the company said that as a proud member of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association it was delighted to support Kentucky’s renowned horse racing industry.

“Castle Hill is excited to begin operations in Kentucky,” said Arthur Watson, the firm’s CEO. “We are proud of our quality fun machines that are already being enjoyed by patrons throughout the United States.”

HHR machines have raised $87m in taxes in Kentucky since 2011, and $33m of these taxes have supported Kentucky’s thriving horse industry, an industry employing approximately 80,000 people and contributing $1.6bn to the state’s GDP.

Ellis Park is a longstanding fixture of Kentucky’s horse racing history. Once limited to only live horse racing, Ellis Park is now on track to become a year-round entertainment and gaming destination bringing tourism and strengthening the local economy. 

“The installation of Castle Hill’s HHR machines is a part of our ongoing, exciting developments.” said Jeff Inman, General Manager of Ellis Park Racing and Gaming.