Lumen Technologies Enhances Connectivity for the Iconic Kentucky Derby Event

Lumen Technologies Enhances Connectivity for the Kentucky Derby

As the iconic Kentucky Derby approaches, Lumen Technologies is set to revolutionize how attendees experience this legendary event. Known as 'The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports®,' the race will see an upgrade in its digital infrastructure, thanks to a strategic collaboration with Churchill Downs Racetrack. Lumen has introduced its Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) technology, significantly enhancing connectivity for the myriad of guests, media personnel, and operational functions during Derby Week.

The Need for Speed

With the historic Churchill Downs preparing to host the 151st Kentucky Derby, digital connectivity has become paramount. Each year, the venue welcomes over 385,000 visitors. The demand for high-speed internet has skyrocketed, with data needs soaring from a typical 2–3 Gbps on regular days to an astonishing 200 Gbps during Derby Week. This surge is fueled by multiple factors, including streaming, live broadcasting, and ensuring seamless transactions at mobile points of sale.

Mike Wood, Senior IT Director at Churchill Downs, emphasized the importance of rapid connectivity, stating, "When you're hosting one of the greatest sporting spectacles on Earth, everything needs to be connected swiftly — and not just the race itself." With Lumen’s NaaS technology, Churchill Downs can activate high-capacity, secure network connections in mere minutes, accommodating everything from vendor support to guest Wi-Fi.

Transformative Technology

The launch of Lumen’s NaaS marks a significant departure from traditional wired connections, replacing them with a dynamic network that allows for on-demand scaling. Dave Ward, Lumen’s Chief Technology and Product Officer, explained, "By substituting rigid, temporary circuits with a flexible NaaS platform, Churchill Downs gains a cloud-like network experience that can adjust according to the Derby's pace. This represents the future of connectivity, and we’re proud to play a pivotal role in this transformation."

This innovation does not just support the event itself; it delivers continuous high-performance connectivity to various ongoing operations at Churchill Downs. These include crucial services such as veterinary support, security systems, and mutuel platforms, ensuring that everything runs efficiently amid the excitement.

Community Connectivity

Beyond the thrill of the race, Lumen's network infrastructure extends to the backside community at Churchill Downs. Many equestrians and their families rely on dependable internet for schooling, remote work, and communication. With enhanced connectivity, they can stay connected, ensuring that their needs are met alongside the Derby celebrations.

The Legacy Continues

The Kentucky Derby, which has been running annually since 1875, represents not just a prominent horse racing event but a hallmark of American sporting culture. Set against the backdrop of the historic Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, this race is not only the longest continually-held major sporting event in the United States but also the first leg of horse racing's esteemed Triple Crown. The upcoming race on May 3, 2024, promises excitement and grandeur, now backed by Lumen's cutting-edge technology.

For fans eager to partake in the magic of the Derby, tickets are on sale for the 151st Kentucky Derby, with additional details available through the Kentucky Derby official website.

In conclusion, Lumen's partnership with Churchill Downs exemplifies how technology can elevate traditional events, providing a glimpse into a future where connectivity plays an integral role in ensuring memorable experiences for all.