Strong-arm tactics
Surprised no thread has mentioned this. From the TB Times Today:
The contract extension [of a subsidiary] comes just one day after Youbet went public with its dispute with TrackNet Media, a new media management
and content sharing venture between Churchill and Magna Entertainment
Corp.
TrackNet wants the advance deposit wagering company to drop
all content sublicensed by Television Games Network (TVG)—including
the New York Racing Association, Keeneland, and Oak Tree
at Santa Anita—in exchange for Magna and Churchill content.
If the two companies do not reach an agreement, Youbet will not
offer wagering on the Derby.
Some have already capitulated - from my favored site, Brisbet:
Effective Thursday, May 3, there will be changes to the AmericaTAB racetrack lineup. These changes are due to a recent decision to enter into an agreement with the newly-formed TrackNet Media Group LLC, a joint-venture between Churchill Downs, Inc., and Magna Entertainment Corp. AmericaTAB recently became the first account wagering company to sign a content agreement with TrackNet Media, making it a preferred TrackNet partner and giving our customers access to wagering on all Churchill Downs and Magna racetracks.
At the time of this writing, effective on May 3, the following racetracks will not be available for wagering through AmericaTAB for the month of May:
Through May 31, 2007:
Domestic: International:
Calder Race Course Japan Racing
Emerald Downs
Hollywood Park
Arlington Park (until early Aug.)
Los Alamitos
New Jersey (Med, Mth)
New York Racing Association (Belmont Park)
Prairie Meadows
In other words, no TVG contracted tracks.
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