23-12-2005 IRG denied access to Woodbine-hosted pools

Curacao-based International Racing Group, which is owned by Youbet.com and has been recently licensed in Oregon to operate a wagering hub, has been denied access to Woodbine pools.

Woodbine Entertainment Group said the pari-mutuel racing business relies on substantial contributions from wagering revenue to fund breeding programs, purses, and overall infrastructure. While non-racetrack rebate shops are not contributing enough to achieve these objectives, even with their claims of generating increased handle.

"We, as an industry, cannot afford to continue to legitimize these non-racetrack rebate operations. Our long-term success depends on a significant reinvestment in the racing industry, which is something that these organizations do not deliver," said David Wilmot, WEG Chief Executive.