A key Philadelphia sportsbook opened this week and another opens its doors next week as PA sports betting expands.
The South Philadelphia Turf Club took its first wagers this week, marking the fifth opening in just two months in Pennsylvania. Legal Sports Report first reported last week that the Kambi-powered operation would commence operations this week.
The South Philly opening marks the second in a week for Kambi after Parx started up just outside Philadelphia. A sixth PA sports betting option will join the market Tuesday when Harrah’s Philadelphia opens its shop.
In the shadow of the stadium
The location of the South Philly sportsbook merits the most attention. Just how close to the action is the turf club book? Let Parx explain:
The South Philadelphia Turf Club is situated next to Citizens Bank Field, home of the Phillies, Lincoln Financial Field and Stadium, where the Eagles play, and just blocks from the Wachovia Complex, home of the Flyers and the 76ers.
The value of locating a sportsbook within shouting distance of pro sports is clear from the Meadowlands in New Jersey. Located adjacent to MetLife Stadium, FanDuel Sportsbook at Meadowlands Racetrack clearly paced all retail outlets in the Garden State with more than $3.5 million in December revenue. Monmouth Park came in second with more than $1 million in retail.
The benefit from NFL Sundays with the New York Giants and New York Jets next door clearly shows. That could be magnified in Pennsylvania for as long as sports betting finally remains only land-based.
Harrah’s helps Philly burst with options
Next in line to start PA sports betting is Harrah’s Philadelphia. The Caesars-owned property begins its state-mandated testing period Tuesday and holds its grand opening Thursday.
The revamped space will feature 45 large-screen TVs and various seating options for patrons.
“We are excited to bring sports betting to Delaware County and allow our guests from the tri-state area to experience our property in a whole new way,” said Harrah’s Philadelphia Senior Vice President & General Manager Chris Albrecht.
Christian Stuart, Caesars Entertainment EVP of Gaming & Interactive Entertainment:
“The Harrah’s Philadelphia offering is fully integrated into Total Rewards, so customers can easily earn and redeem points for all Caesars amenities worldwide. The Caesars brands powered by SG Digital technology will be a powerful player as we expand across the U.S. in retail and mobile sports betting (pending regulatory approval).”
PA sports betting ramps up in December
December marked the first full month of PA sports betting and the three active casinos posted strong early returns. Bettors put up more than $16 million in sports wagers in the month. That resulted in a hold of more than $2 million, a 12.4 percent hold.
Here’s the handle breakdown for December:
- Rivers (Pittsburgh): $5,581,553
- SugarHouse (Philadelphia): $5,539,806
- Hollywood (central PA): $5,051,730
Rivers and SugarHouse were not open for the entire month either.
