Betfair secures Tasmanian naming rights

11Jun 2013

Betfair

Betting exchange and online casino operator Betfair's Australian subsidiary has signed a three-year deal to serve as the naming rights partner for the Tasmanian Summer Racing Carnival.

One of the most popular horseracing festivals in Australia, the Tasmanian Summer Racing Carnival takes place in January and February every year and will now be known as the Betfair Tasmanian Summer Racing Carnival. Betfair Australia has additionally secured the rights to have its name attached to the series’ feature Hobart Cup and Launceston Cup events.

“As a proud Tasmanian, we leapt at the opportunity to partner with the Tasmanian Summer Racing Carnival,” said Giles Thompson, Chief Executive Officer for Betfair Australia.

Betfair Australia was licensed by the Tasmanian government in February of 2006 and employs more than 110 staff at its headquarters in the southern state’s capital, Hobart.

“Betfair is obviously a high-profile international organisation and we are delighted that it has partnered with our thoroughbred carnival in this way,” said Brian Speers, Chairman for organiser and regulator Tas Racing.

“Through the partnership, Betfair will continue to help place the national thoroughbred racing spotlight on Tasmania during the summer months. It is also a strong vote of confidence in the Tasmanian thoroughbred product and sends a clear message of support to our other sponsors and stakeholders regarding the state of our industry.
“The 2013 [Tasmanian Summer Racing Carnival] benefited from increased wagering turnover and strong participation from inter-state owners, trainers and jockeys. More than $1.2 million or 64 percent of carnival prize money was won by Tasmania-owned horses. This was a strong result for the thoroughbred industry in Tasmania and a very real demonstration that Tasmania-owned thoroughbred horses can compete against quality horses from inter-state.”