Punters under microscope as BetMakers launch new data integrity platform with Racing Victoria

Following a slew of integrity problems coming to light in Victoria over the past two years, Racing Victoria has launched a new data tracking platform, partnering with tech firm BetMakers (ASX: BET) to enhance transparency and monitoring by racing authorities. 

The new platform has been developed by BetMakers with the partnership granting an exclusive license to distribute and commercialise the platform across other racing jurisdictions. 

“We see this as a must have solution for any racing body who wants to provide its Integrity unit with the best available tools to ensure its racing is of a high quality from an Integrity point of view,” said BetMakers CEO, Todd Buckingham. 

The custom built integrity platform, labelled ‘RVIP’, will track real-time data such as price movements and betting patterns whilst cross referencing them instantly against performance indicators established by racing authorities. 

It will then be able to flag inconsistencies within the system and build a database library which logs irregularities and comments for individual horses, trainers, jockeys, owners and wagering movements. 

The platform has been developed over the past 12 months and is one of the initiatives Jamie Stier has initiated since his appointment in December 2017 following a highly decorated career with the Hong Kong Jockey Club and various other international postings over the past 20 years. 

“Integrity is vital to the ongoing success and health of the Victorian thoroughbred racing industry,” said Stier, Racing Victoria Executive General Manager – Integrity Services.

“The introduction of this bespoke platform is an important technological development that will not only benefit our integrity staff to better manage the unique challenges they face, but is a long term investment to ultimately support the wider industry. 

“The development of the RVIP software also showcases Racing Victoria’s commitment to further strengthen its digital capabilities and integrity structures to support the longevity of racing in Victoria.”

Since Stier’s return to Australia, racing integrity in Victoria has seen a major uplift. This has included the 4-year ban to former leading trainer Darren Weir, and exposing the systematic doping scandal orchestrated by Aquanita Racing which led to the lifetime disqualification of Robert Smerdon. 

BetMakers did not reveal financial details associated with the partnership.