AT&T collaborated with a third party wireless infrastructure provider for the installation of new wireless antennas located throughout the grandstands, suites and premium seating areas of the Churchill Downs Racetrack to improve wireless coverage, capacity and data speeds during peak event times at this year's Kentucky Derby.
AT&T will be the first wireless carrier to connect to the new distributed antenna system. The third party wireless infrastructure provider has worked closely with Churchill Downs and AT&T's Antenna Solutions Group (ASG) to ensure the network is designed to meet the needs of AT&T's customers as well as Churchill Downs, given the historical nature of the facility.
"Investment in next-generation technologies is imperative to Kentucky's future success," said Senator Robert Stivers. "During the greatest two minutes in sports, the world is focused on the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Kentuckians, as well as thousands of visitors from across the globe, will descend on Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Derby, and I will continue to encourage investment in better wireless and broadband across the state through innovative public policy."
According to Kevin Flanery, President of Churchill Downs Racetrack, "Churchill Downs is committed to providing exceptional wireless coverage on Derby day. Our collaboration with AT&T will bring the latest wireless technology to Churchill Downs and address the coverage and capacity issues when folks are using their wireless devices to capture those photos, utilize social media and make calls."
In addition to ensuring voice calls are successfully connected, the new antenna system will allow smart phones, tablets and other devices to access the Internet and run interactive applications including the Kentucky Derby mobile application. The Kentucky Derby mobile application allows users to access many features on their mobile devices, including information on the schedule of racing and entertainment events, horse and contender information, betting information, ticket information and sales, video and photo galleries, Derby trivia and racing meets, Facebook and Twitter links, and breaking news announcements.
"An integral part of our goal to deliver an outstanding customer experience is to provide an exceptional wireless experience," said AT&T Kentucky President Mary Pat Regan. "We want to enable the thousands of Derby attendees to use their wireless devices to capture the memories made and stay connected."
