Place Your Bets!

Keeneland officials are using opening weekend to unveil a number of new features for race fans, including a number of betting enhancements.

In the fall, Keeneland launched “Wagering Central” where less-experienced betters can get advice from experts.

Now those benefits have expanded.

Starting during this meet, experts called “betologists” walk among the crowd to answer questions.

Keeneland also holds seminars throughout the day to teach the basics of betting.

And a new program allows fans to skip the lines and vote using their smart phones or tablets.

“It’s pretty simple actually,” said Jeff Sullivan, who signed up for the program Friday.

“You just get a card, then with the card you get an ID. You put that into your phone through the website and you can bet right on your phone. At the end of the day you take your card and hopefully get a ticket for your winnings.”

Keeneland officials said they hope the enhancements will make betting easier and more enjoyable for fans.