HORSERACE BETTING THROUGH THE INTERNET LAUNCHED

9 November 2007

New Yorkers can place account wagers on horse races using TVG's patented Internet technology, thanks to legislative carve-outs


The hypocrisy of online gambling legislation in the United States was again highlighted this week with the launch of a full-on Internet wagering platform for horseracing venue Yonkers Raceway by TVG Network, is a Los Angeles-based digital cable network that specialises in horse racing. Thanks to legislative carve-outs, the American political and moral stand on Internet gambling is not applied to horseracing, state lotteries or fantasy sports.

The online service provides a website through which registered New York residents can place account wagers on horse races using TVG's patented state-of-the-art Internet technology. Account holders also have access to race replays, free handicapping information, selections from TVG's horseracing experts and customised stable alerts featuring updated news on specific horses, jockeys, trainers and owners. A campaign to promote the service within New York State is expected before year's end.

"We are thrilled to work with Yonkers to deliver premium account wagering services to New Yorkers," said David Nathanson, senior vice president and general manager of TVG. "New York is the country's largest pari-mutuel wagering state, and is obviously an important market for horseracing, with devoted fans and great local tradition. This service will bring innovative new wagering options to New York customers and deliver significant benefits to industry participants."

In June, TVG reached an agreement with Yonkers Raceway to provide account wagering services on Yonkers' behalf to New York residents through a new account wagering system. Subsequently, TVG built, tested and received approval for its online system from the New York State Racing and Wagering Board on October 26, 2007 (see previous InfoPowa report).

"Changes in New York law enabled racetracks to expand their service offerings to customers through account wagering via the Internet, which is an exciting opportunity," said Robert Galterio, general manager of Yonkers Raceway. "In reviewing account wagering service providers, we concluded that TVG offered the highest quality products and services for customers in the New York market.

"Now that the new system has been approved by the Racing and Wagering Board, we're anticipating measurable growth through this new platform, which will benefit both racetracks and horsemen."

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