Sharpsville man wins $30K at racino

AUSTINTOWN

A Sharpsville, Pa. man won $30,000 last night at Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley Race Course.

Robert T., who only agreed to release his first name and city, elected to take $22,000 instead of the grand prize of a 2015 Chevy Traverse during Hollywood Gaming's first big promotion, "Wheels and Reels Giveaway."

Then 40 minutes later Robert hit an $8,000 jackpot on a $100 machine, said Hollywood Gaming marketing director Scott Frost.

In all, $39,200 in free video lottery terminal play and cash was awarded during the promotion's two drawings - the first of which was last month.

The racino also gave out $12,200 in free VLT play and $5,000 in cash last night.

Overall, Frost said, “We’re very pleased at the participation and turnout for our first major promotion. It’s thrilling to feel the excitement across the gaming floor as we announce winners and award prizes. We look forward to offering more winning opportunities for our Marquee Rewards members as our way of showing appreciation for their loyalty.”

The first race at the one-mile thoroughbred track is set to begin at 12:45 p.m. today after a ceremony to mark the beginning of racing. Today's card features eight races. A news release from Hollywood Gaming said races today and tomorrow will average a field size of 9.37 - well above the current industry average of about 8.