The famed horse track turned premier entertainment destination celebrates its 10th anniversary
JACK Thistledown Racino celebrates a decade of entertainment, growth, and investment, marking its 10-year anniversary as a leading entertainment destination in Northeast Ohio.
On April 9, 2013, Thistledown Racetrack underwent an $88 million renovation, transitioning from a historic racetrack to a vibrant racino with an array of gaming, dining, and entertainment options. Over the past decade, JACK Entertainment has invested over $150 million into Thistledown, breathing new life into the nearly century-old establishment and revitalizing the surrounding community.
“From the moment we opened the racino a decade ago, we understood the significance of Thistledown to Northeast Ohio and our responsibility to preserve its legacy while delivering renewed excitement,” said Matt Cullen, Chairman of the Board of JACK Entertainment. “As we celebrate this anniversary, we’re proud of our accomplishments and our ongoing commitment to providing exceptional experiences for our guests and team members.”
JACK has carried out a remarkable transformation at Thistledown, completing numerous impressive projects that have dramatically revamped the entire facility. The striking upgrades began with a modern redesign of the building’s exterior, an expansive 14,000 square-foot gaming floor, and the addition of a 1,000-space parking structure. Building on this momentum, in the last two years, JACK has introduced a stunning 12,000-square-foot outdoor gaming patio and the cutting-edge betJACK sportsbook, setting a new standard for entertainment.
“Our dedication to enhancing upon JACK Thistledown Racino’s rich history drives our efforts to support the full potential of the racino and the surrounding area,” said Mark Dunkeson, CEO of JACK Entertainment. “As active members of this community, we’re delighted to be part of its continued growth and development for many decades to follow.”
To celebrate this significant anniversary, JACK is giving back to the community, guests, and team members who have contributed to the racino’s success. JACK will donate $10,000 each to the Warrensville Heights Family YMCA and the North Randall Civic Center, fostering welcoming and inclusive environments in the local community.
Guests can look forward to $100,000 in rewards throughout April, with drawings every Saturday from 2 p.m. – 9 p.m. and a limited-edition t-shirt to mark the occasion. Over 70 team members who have been with Thistledown since its 2013 opening will be honored in a special celebration, recognizing their commitment and dedication.
“I commend JACK Thistledown for their unwavering dedication to our community for the last decade. Not only are they an integral part of our community, but they have also demonstrated their commitment to giving back and addressing our community’s needs,” said Village of North Randall Mayor David Smith. “JACK Thistledown’s investment has been a win for all of us. Their outstanding business practices and leadership continue to significantly impact the Village of North Randall.”