Despite the unpreparedness of casinos with their sportsbooks, football season still arrived. As a result, Wheeling Island Hotel-Casino-Racetrack took an alternative approach and opened a sports bar as the next best option.
The new facility at the Wheeling casino was recently introduced, providing a dedicated space for patrons to enjoy watching their preferred sports events. Within this venue, a prominent bar showcases a massive collection of television screens, complemented by an informative ticker displayed below.
The intentional design of the bar, resembling a sportsbook sans betting, is no coincidence.
According to WTOV9, general manager Kim Florence stated that although we are not fully prepared for individuals to make sports bets, this area is fully equipped for people to indulge in college football during the upcoming weekend.
After weeks of construction, Florence deemed the opening of the bar as a significant progression towards gambling in West Virginia.
Wheeling Island gearing up for sports betting
It is undeniable that Wheeling Island has set its sights on prioritizing sports betting, with the new venue strategically situated at the heart of the casino.
According to WTOV’s report, a recent job fair took place at Wheeling Island to recruit new employees. The casino is specifically seeking to hire individuals for sports betting roles.
However, the only obstacle currently preventing the property from proceeding is a logistical one. Last month, the state granted approval for the venue to offer sports betting.
The potential is too large to ignore
After witnessing the early success of Hollywood Casino Charles Town, Wheeling Island officials were filled with excitement as they eagerly embraced the prospect of venturing into sports betting.
The sportsbook at Hollywood Casino had a soft launch on August 30 and was officially opened on September 1. Within the initial four days of operation, the establishment successfully processed wagers amounting to $640,000.
Nevertheless, the casino’s earnings during that period accounted for approximately 50 percent. This statistic could explain why Wheeling Island officials appear to be more driven than ever before. However, it is important to note that this rapid growth is not sustainable and is primarily a result of the accounting involved in West Virginia sports betting.
Typically, Nevada sportsbooks retain approximately five percent of their total betting volume.
Wheeling Island may be in just the right spot
The strategic location of Wheeling Island is advantageous for sports betting at the establishment. Situated on an island in the Ohio River, the casino spans the border between West Virginia and Ohio, as its name suggests.
The casino is conveniently situated, being just a two-hour drive from both Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and Columbus, Ohio. Wheeling Island has the potential to become the epicenter for sports betting in the entire area.
It is possible for Pennsylvania and Ohio to legalize sports betting independently. Pennsylvania ought to consider opening its inaugural sportsbooks by the end of this year.
Nonetheless, being the first to enter the market holds a significant advantage. Wheeling Island has the opportunity to establish its dominance by expediting its progress. The outcome remains to be seen.
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