from Penn National Gaming

Wyomissing, PA — Penn National Gaming, Inc., the largest operator of pari-mutuel facilities in North America, has signed a lease to renovate a former restaurant in Gloucester Township into New Jersey’s fifth off-track wagering facility.

“Favorites at Gloucester Township” will be located at the former Stone Grille on Blackwood-Clementon Road and will offer South Jersey horse racing fans a convenient location to watch and wager on their favorite New Jersey and national racetracks. The location is just off Route 42 and minutes from the Walt Whitman Bridge.

“We are pleased to have a signed lease and can now go forward on the process of obtaining the necessary approvals through the New Jersey Racing Commission,” said Christopher McErlean, Vice President of Racing for Penn National Gaming, Inc. “We look forward to working with Township officials in bringing jobs and an exciting economic development opportunity to this area. We feel Favorites will offer a sports bar atmosphere that we think will appeal to racing fans as well as those looking for an exciting entertainment option.”

A late summer opening is anticipated barring any issues in obtaining the necessary local and state approvals. Renovations to the interior of the facility will include the additional of nearly 100 flat screen televisions.

Penn National Gaming, Inc. is a joint venture partner in Freehold Raceway located in Freehold and will be utilizing one of Freehold’s four OTW licenses for the Gloucester Township facility. Freehold operates an off-track wagering facility in Toms River which opened in 2008.