Xpressbet tells CHRB it has developed alternative-selection technology for multi-race wagers
A leading account-wagering firm has developed technology that allows bettors to designate an alternative selection in the event of a late scratch of a primary selection in multi-race wagers such as a pick four, pick five, or pick six.
The California Horse Racing Board’s pari-mutuel committee heard testimony on Wednesday that Xpressbet has developed alternative selection software. The new feature was launched on a limited basis in mid-February, a company representative said.
The representative stressed that the company was reviewing how often customers utilize the option and that the feature has not been introduced on all of the company’s online wagering formats.
The pari-mutuel committee met, via teleconference, in response to an embarrassing situation last November when Modern Games was a late withdrawal from betting pools at the Breeders’ Cup at Del Mar.
Modern Games was prematurely withdrawn from the BC Juvenile Turf when attending veterinarians present at the gate thought the colt had potentially sustained an injury when he acted up in the gate before the start.
Modern Games was eventually cleared to race after veterinarians consulted with track stewards, but only for purse money only. Modern Games finished first, leaving bettors angered as to why a leading contender was withdrawn from betting pools but allowed to compete.
As a result of the scratch, consolation payouts were made in the late daily double and pick three. Bets in the late pick four, pick five, and pick six that were made online, or through the ontrack tote system without designating an alternative selection, defaulted to post-time favorite Dakota Gold, who finished fifth. Those wagers attracted bets of a combined $7.72 million.
Bets in the pick four, pick five, and pick six were paid out to runner-up Tiz the Bomb, a 7-1 chance recognized as the pari-mutuel winner.
Alternative selections are popular with multi-race bettors who wager at California tracks or simulcast locations, mostly through the use of bet cards.
Wednesday’s meeting did not result in any proposed regulatory changes although officials were encouraged by the development of improved software by Xpressbet.
“We need to know what the technology can do for us today,” committee member Damascus Castellanos said. “If something can be improved and help in this matter, of course, let’s entertain that.”
Wednesday’s meeting did not discuss the circumstances between veterinarians and racing officials that led to the scratch of Modern Games. Earlier this month, the racing board announced a series of recommendations to be utilized when a horse is a late scratch.
The racing board’s primary recommendation is for one veterinarian to communicate with stewards regarding late scratches. More than one veterinarian was present at the gate of the BC Juvenile Turf.