The German Derby was part of the World Pool for the first time this year. Huge bets flow into this multi-million turnover pool, which is managed by the Hong Kong Jockey Club. Such global connections are an essential part of the future of racing. And they are planning for the long term, as a recent report reveals.
The Hong Kong Jockey Club and Bet With Ascot have extended their World Pool agreement for a further five years, having already signed an extension with the English Tote. The concept, which allows bettors around the world to bet on more than 100 events in pari-mutuel pools, has expanded the number of racing days that can be bet on in Hong Kong, while British bettors benefit from increased liquidity and participating racecourses receive a percentage of the revenue.
HKJC managing director Michael Fitzsimmons said, "Our customers like Ascot, they like the Ascot brand, and hundreds of thousands of people watched in Hong Kong this week."
A key strategic objective for World Pool`s next phase of expansion is to increase racing`s engagement with a new and younger audience, and Fitzsimmons added: "You bet against someone in Australia or Hong Kong, it excites people, and you root for your home horse. The returns to racing are very important for everyone involved. We give something back to racing and that`s what we`re most excited about."
Felicity Barnard, Ascot`s Director of Racing and Public Affairs, added: "I think it`s exciting for racing in general. It means a significant amount to our prize money. Everything we get we try to invest in the business and the prize money, and it encourages better quality runners."
