Dish Network will offer horseracing 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 come out of the gate 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 Dish officials.
Each racetrack 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 customers will have the opportunity to subscribe to a $29.99 "Best of RTN" package, comprising 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, 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."
HRTV president Scott Daruty said the company hopes to eventually offer the packages to other distributors and cable operators.
