Ten point plan British horseracing

10-01-2010

UK racing could dismiss the odds system if new measures to update the sport are implemented. The Racing for Change taskforce presented today a ten point plan to improve the image of British horseracing. One of the proposals regards a decimal odds system instead of a fraction-based one.

Racing for Change board

In addition, the plan consists of revising fixtures in order to form premier racing tournaments and more clearly structured competitions. Furthermore, every trainer and jockey will be registered on race cards by their family-names and first names and official racecourse notifications will be more comprehensible. The Racing for Change board consists of officials from major stakeholders and organizations in UK racing.

Decimal odds system

“A decimal odds system would be a significant improvement. We have used the system since 2000 and we believe that it’s more comprehensible and more simple to employ than the fraction-based system. Besides, the majority of the internet bookmakers already provide that option,” according to Betfair’s head of media Tony Calvin.

British horseracing

Nevertheless, Calvin stated that the measures aren’t sufficient: “The proposals are well intentioned and all the points make sense. However, I believe that the plan aims only on ‘quick wins’ while the proposals fail the distinctive appeal.”