Austintown VLT Play Takes Slight Dip in April

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Wagers on video lottery terminals at Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley Race Course dipped slightly in April compared to March, a trend reflected in statewide results as well.

Bettors at the Austintown racino wagered $74.88 million in credits last month, down less than half a percentage point from $74.14 million in March, according to the monthly report generated by the Ohio Lottery Commission, which oversees VLT operations in the state.

“We’re pleased to record another strong month of revenue, and continue to be appreciative of the patronage and support we’re enjoying from the Mahoning Valley community,” said Bob Tenenbaum, spokesman for Penn National Gaming inc., which owns the Austintown racino.

From when the Austintown racino opened in September 2014 through April, credits played there total $548.59 million, and credits won total $487.34 million.

Statewide, VLT credits played totaled $756.56 million in April, down 2.6% from the $776.75 million wagered in March.

At Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway, VLT wagers last month totaled $78.63 million, down from $79.48 million, a 1.1% slip.

April, with 30 days, was one day shorter than March and had the Easter Sunday holiday as well.

Credits won in April totaled $66.59 million at Austintown last month, down slightly from $66.64 million in March. The net win to Hollywood Gaming – credits played minus credits won and promotional play credits – was $7.74 million for the month.

Of the net win, $5.12 million went to Hollywood Gaming/Penn National as its commission for operating the racino, $2.59 million went to the Oho Lottery Commission and $25,725 went to problem gambling services.

The percent payout in April was 89.67%, up modestly from 89.37% the month before. Win per VLT per day averaged $298, identical to the month before.

This month the racino hosted a May 2 event for the running of the Kentucky Derby, the most-watched horse race in the country and one of the biggest sporting events overall. “We did have a very good crowd for Derby Day and anticipate a lot if interest in the Preakness on May 16,” Tenenbaum said.

Live racing at the thoroughbred track concluded April 25 and will resume Oct. 25. Simulcast racing takes place throughout the year.

Copyright 2024 The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.