Fans of online gaming can be forgiven for being less the ecstatic at news from the New York State Racing and Wagering Board this week. New regulations that will come into force on January 22 will allow horse racing fans to make legal bets on their top picks online.
According to the new regulations, "authorized entities" may offer wagering accounts at OTBs and racetracks across New York State via person, telephone devices including cell phones and the Internet. The new regulations are being touted as a “breakthrough” by the New York Racing Association's senior vice president. Bill Nader, who also acts as the organization's chief operating officer, told media that “if you're trying to introduce thoroughbred racing to a new audience, this is a step forward. Somebody under 35 would rather use their [personal computer] than the telephone. We think our website is going to be very attractive and very exciting."
Nader's comments were echoed by president of New York City OTB Ray Casey, who said that taking advantage of technological advances is crucial for the survival of the horse racing industry. Casey has been a vocal supporter for online betting for two years and says the move will “make horse racing more accessible for the X and Y generation."
However, while the new regulations are welcome news to horse racing fans, some poker fans may find the move controversial to say the least. New York State has proved its commitment to banning online gambling operators from providing services to American casino players and some say that its decision to allow the horse racing industry to accept online bets is nothing short of exercizing double standards.

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