Dish to Carry Racetrack Subscription Package

Pay-Per-View Service Will Launch in September

by R. Thomas Umstead -- Multichannel News, 5/13/2009 4:55:26 PM

Dish Network will offer horse-racing fans up to 80 channels of track action as part of the satellite service's new Racetrack Television Network pay-per-view subscription service set to launch in September.

The service, created as part of a long-term deal with Racetrack Television Network and HorseRacingTV, will cost $49.99 per month and provide subscribers with as many a 700 live thoroughbred, quarterhorse, harness and greyhound races daily from racetracks from around the country, according to the company.

Each track in the package will have its own dedicated channel, allowing viewers to watch the same live, uninterrupted simulcast feed as is shown in commercial wagering establishments. The simulcast feed will also include full wagering information, paddock shots, and post parades, although consumers will not be able to place actual bets through the package.

In addition to the 80 channel package, Dish Network viewers will have the opportunity to subscribe to a $29.99 "Best of RTN" package consisting of the live simulcast feeds of 12 of the top RTN racetracks running at any given time.

"With the recent running of the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes around the corner, we are all reminded of the popularity of horse racing," said Michael Kelly, Executive Vice President of Dish Network in a statement. "We are pleased to be able to offer Dish Network subscribers the most complete package of racing content available in the marketplace."