LAUREL, MD. 09-06-12---The Maryland Jockey Club introduced a Virtual Finish Line at the Laurel Park fall meeting, which opened yesterday. The video insertion technology delivers virtual distance markers and a virtual finish line on the main track and turf course to enhance the broadcast of the simulcast signal.

“This is a new, creative visual aid for fans to see how close the wire is and if their horse has a chance to win,” said Maryland Jockey Club president Tom Chuckas. “We tested it at Pimlico during Preakness week and got positive feedback, so we decided to move forward.”

The technology was developed by International Sound Corporation, a full service provider of turn-key Color Video Tape Patrol, Color Closed Circuit Television, Satellite Transmission and Simulcast Systems to the racing industry for more than 50 years, in conjunction with a third-party vendor.

“It is similar to the first down marker in football but takes it one step further in the world of virtual advertising,” said International Sound executive vice-president Joe Gordon. “The advertising opportunities are unlimited. Having the ability to see your company’s logo during the race as the masses watch is better than running a commercial 15 minutes before the race. The tool is used in South America for soccer and is extremely successful.”

For marketing opportunities, contact Jacqui Nigh (jnigh@marylandracing.com).

About Laurel Park

Laurel Park is a Stronach Group company, North America’s leading Thoroughbred racetrack owner/operator. The Stronach Group racetracks include Santa Anita Park, Gulfstream Park & Casino, Golden Gate Fields, Portland Meadows, Laurel Park and Pimlico Race Course, home of the world-famous Preakness. The company owns and operates the Palm Meadows Training Center in Florida and is one of North America's top race horse breeders through its award-winning Adena Springs operation. The Stronach Group is one of the world's largest suppliers of pari-mutuel wagering systems, technologies and services. Its companies include AmTote, a global leader in wagering technology; Xpressbet, an Internet and telephone account wagering service; and Monarch Content Management, which acts as a simulcast purchase and sales agent of horseracing content for numerous North American racetracks and wagering outlets. The Stronach Group is also a major producer of televised horse racing programming through its HRTV cable and satellite network and is North America's premier supplier of virtual online horse racing games, as well as a leading producer of social media content for the horseracing industry.