SBC News Voice of the Sports Betting Industry
Fifty-seven British racecourses have announced the formation of Racecourse Data Company (RDC). The joint venture has been formed by Racecourse Media Group (RMG) and Arena Racing Company (ARC), and nine independent racecourses as shareholders.
RDC has been assigned the PRD (Pre-Race Data) licence for a five-year term from Racing Enterprises Limited (REL). PRD is information on a racecard, such as final fields, owners, trainers, jockeys, weight, colours, draw and ratings.
This enables RDC the right to license PRD to all third parties via a simple and coherent licensing regime. This enhances control of PRD and engenders a consistent approach to licencing via a transparent rate-card utilised across all customers. Weatherbys will continue its role in providing PRD services.
Richard FitzGerald, RMG Chief Executive, and Tony Kelly, ARC Managing Director, said: “With the valued support of Racing Enterprises Limited, Horsemen’s Group, British Horseracing Authority (BHA), and Racecourse Association, Racecourse Data Company has been formed by 57 British racecourses to enhance the control and licensing of data in the best interests of the sport.
“This move reflects the way in which racecards are now used and the changes in the marketplace, particularly around mobile and online. The overarching aims are to protect official partners, control integrity, lower the risk of piracy and enhance the value of PRD for the industry. It also provides customers with a long-term deal for this significant piece of data.”
