HOPES ARE HIGH AS B.T.C. SETS THE BALL ROLLING

As we suffer through this pandemic and extremely trying times where our lives have practically come to a standstill, we naturally welcome any sign of activity getting back into our lives. Knowing that life, work and play will never be the same again and that everything we do will have a new perspective, we should just accept the facts that are staring at us in the face and change. While the fear factor will play an important part we need to be sensible, responsible and disciplined in how we step forward.

The world of sport has been quick to find an immediate alternate way to conduct itself by having spectatorless events. Racing in Hong Kong, the US, France and Australia have been innovative in getting the action started and with online betting opportunities and racing revenues being generated the show goes on. British and Irish racing is set to kick off in June.

So naturally when we got the good news that the sound of hooves can now be heard at the Bangalore race course it was sweet music to our ears. If Governments want businesses to get back onto their feet, then they should provide every possible assistance that will allow the business of sport to do the same.

Unfortunately, India has never been allowed to conduct online betting thus far but there is every possibility that the approval to do so may now be given. Life doesn’t happen if you are not online. Understanding that this is the only viable way out for racing clubs, they have already started actively working on this alternative.
The Bangalore Turf Club has had to delay the start of its prestigious summer season but the fact that they have plans for a truncated season is in itself very welcome. While all regulatory norms will be strictly adhered to regarding social distancing, the wearing of masks and protective gear and the use of sanitizers, the fact that racing patrons can enjoy racing and betting from the comfort of their homes while revenue will be generated for the clubs through online betting is the need of the hour.

With e-commerce is available in almost every aspect of life today it is easy to understand that online betting amounts to the same, as the legal betting that is being done at the various racing venues in India will now only be changing their mode of payment. Instead of standing at a tote window you now place your bet through your e-wallet that will be part of the app.

In this matter, one only hopes that all racing Clubs will work in tandem to integrate the app and systems on a national scale, so that the new system will include off-course betting. Online betting will have a far reaching and positive impact, as through the system the Clubs can reach out to many of its various members, who don’t come to the racecourse but would renew their participation in the sport as it is online.

We will keep you posted with new developments as they happen.