Hollywood Casino is poised to become the first casino in Pennsylvania to offer sports betting.

Penn National Gaming announced it plans to begin two live money sports betting test days at Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course beginning at 3 p.m. today and from 2 to 11 p.m. Friday.

The purpose of the live wagering test days is to ensure that Hollywood Casino’s staff and the equipment needed to operate sports wagering are in compliance with state requirements, according to a news release from Penn National.

Once the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board gives its approval, the regular hours of the sports betting operation will be 11 a.m. to midnight each Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to midnight each Saturday and Sunday.

Sports betting starts to come into view in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board is set to consider license for professional oddsmaker at Hollywood Casino on Wednesday.  

Penn National will operate its sports book in the existing simulcast theater next to the Skybox Sports Bar on the second floor of the casino. The area has been renovated and includes dozens of new televisions for customers to view sports action from across the country and around the world.

The company’s Pennsylvania sports book will be managed by William Hill US, the largest sports betting operator in the United States.

“Penn National is excited to be the first casino to offer sports wagering in Pennsylvania," said Chief Executive Officer Timothy J. Wilmott. "The enthusiasm around sports betting has been growing since the federal ban was repealed in May, and we look forward to providing our patrons with another great amenity to enjoy at Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course.”

Hollywood Casino Dan Ihm said the gaming control board “moved heaven and earth to get us to this point.”