Wireless Network Performs Like Thoroughbred at Churchill Downs

LOUISVILLE, Ky., May 8, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- From the opening of the gates to the thrill of the final race, the wireless network at Churchill Downs kept the collective 260,000 Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks attendees well connected this weekend.  What helped make this possible was a unique wireless network configuration called a Distributed Antenna System (DAS) installed throughout the facility by Mobilitie, providing coverage for AT&T and Verizon customers.  With the DAS, attendees were able to enjoy an enhanced wireless experience.

The neutral-host DAS, installed by Mobilitie, more than doubled wireless coverage on AT&T's network from last year, making it easier for customers to upload photos, share experiences via social media, and chat real-time with friends.

"When our customers go to Churchill Downs to take in the sights and sounds of the races, we want them to have a great network experience no matter what they're doing – whether that's making a call, checking email, downloading apps or surfing the Internet," said Hood Harris, AT&T Kentucky President. "We're committed to our investment in the local wireless network, and our network enhancement at Churchill Downs is just one way that we're investing in the Louisville area."

Results showed this weekend's total data volume at the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby races on AT&T's in-venue wireless network at Churchill Downs at more than 2 Terabytes. Data usage peaked from 5pm-6pm EDT in the hour leading up to the post time of the Kentucky Derby, when more than 180 Gigabytes crossed AT&T's network, the most data used on an AT&T in-venue mobile network during a given event.   

"From the parking lot to the grandstands at Churchill Downs, spectators at this weekend's event were able to share the big moments without struggle or delay over their mobile devices," said Christos Karmis, president of Mobilitie. "Churchill Downs is an excellent example how our networks provide wider service at events with hundreds of thousands of people in attendance."

The DAS system installed for the 140^th running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs is one of the largest in the country.  With more than 253 antennas and over one million feet of fiber optic cable discretely installed throughout the venue, the event can handle the tens of thousands of racing fans who attend the running of Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby.  The system will also support many other events that take place throughout the year.

About Mobilitie

Mobilitie is the premier wireless infrastructure provider of neutral-host DAS, Small Cell and Wi-Fi networks that enable robust wireless communication. Mobilitie installs and operates wireless infrastructure designed to meet the needs of wireless carriers and venues across all industries, including sporting and entertainment, real estate, hospitality, education, healthcare and government. Mobilitie is headquartered in Newport Beach, California. For more information, please visit www.mobilitie.com.

About Churchill Downs Racetrack

Churchill Downs, the world's most legendary racetrack, has conducted Thoroughbred racing and presented America's greatest race, the Kentucky Derby presented by Yum! Brands, continuously since 1875. Located in Louisville, the flagship racetrack of Churchill Downs Incorporated (NASDAQ: CHDN) also operates Trackside at Churchill Downs, which offers year-round simulcast wagering at the historic track. Churchill Downs conducted the 140th running of the Kentucky Derby on May 3, 2014, and its Spring Meet is scheduled for April 26-June 29. The track has hosted the Breeders' Cup World Championships a record eight times. Information about Churchill Downs can be found on the Internet at www.churchilldowns.com.

SOURCE Mobilitie