NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., April 29, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Spectators are anticipated to have little problem sharing the photo finish at the 2014 Kentucky Derby, as Mobilitie LLC, the nation's largest privately-held provider of wireless infrastructure, today announced significant upgrades to the multi-carrier Distributed Antenna System (DAS) at Churchill Downs. The neutral-host infrastructure will support the wireless demands of more than the collective 260,000 expected visitors to the 140^th running of the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby. New enhancements made by Mobilitie more than double coverage capabilities from last year. 

"Anytime you have tens of thousands of people in one place, it takes a tremendous amount of time and preparation to make sure the network is built to correctly support it," said Christos Karmis, president of Mobilitie. "As the home to one of the most broadly-watched sporting events in the world, Churchill Downs represents not only a unique venue, but also an event that is rich in history and American culture. Our long-term partnership with Churchill Downs allows us the opportunity to operate and maintain one of the largest and most advanced wireless networks in sports, and ultimately allowing fans to share their memories seamlessly through their mobile devices, so friends, family and the world can take part in the traditions that happen every year at Churchill Downs." 

The upgraded DAS will cover all six levels and basement in the main building, as well as all of the grandstands, parking areas and newly installed Grandstand Terrace. In addition, coverage will also support all of the temporary hospitality suites as well as the entire infield area.  Spectators will also notice the increase in connectivity before they get out of their car, as transition zones have been configured so that they can stay connected as soon as they enter the parking lot.

"Since 2003, Churchill Downs has invested $160 million into improving the onsite customer experience for guests attending the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby," said Ryan Jordan, general manager of Churchill Downs. "A major part of the live event experience is ensuring that fans maintain connectivity to their social networks.  As a result of the upgrades that Mobilitie made this year, our guests with smartphone service from participating carriers will be able to share those memorable experiences as they happen live with their entire network."

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 is prepared to handle more than the collective 260,000 attendees expected for 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 will conduct 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 LLC