Delaware’s first table games open in Harrington Raceway

Harrington Raceway & Casino recently introduced the state’s first table games – and decked out in stately black felt with gold detailing, the tables looked good.

“We have everything and anything” said Patty Key, Harrington CEO. While 10 tables are devoted exclusively to poker, the other 38 host games of baccarat, craps and blackjack. After four days of soft openings, the tables were officially opened to gamblers May 28.

“Now we offer everything every casino in the country has to offer,” Key said.

She said preparations were made immediately after Gov. Jack Markell signed House Bill 310 into law, allowing licensed video lottery agents to set up tables.

The preparations were considerable, she said. The casino trains all its dealers at an on-site school; 65 percent of the graduates are Delaware residents, Key said. The casino’s expanded security and food-service needs necessitated an additional 300 hires.

“We’re very happy,” Key said. “This is a good thing for us, the state and the taxpayers. It’s an exciting environment.”

Harrington got nearly a month’s jump on Delaware’s other two casinos: Wilmington’s Delaware Park and Dover Downs. Jennifer Oberle Howard, spokeswoman for Delaware Park, said the casino was planning on introducing table games Friday, June 18, pending state approval. She said the casino will offer 42 table games and a 20-table poker room.

A truck delivered 40 table games to Dover Downs late last month, and spokeswoman Lisa Butler said the casino is also aiming for a late-June opening. She said the casino has filled about 85 percent of its 350 job openings. Vice President of Casino Operations Pete Bradley said Dover Downs employs the best and friendliest dealers in the state.

“Developing the friendliest dealers with a focus on excellence in customer service will, we believe, differentiate us from our competition,” he said.