Gambling.co.uk: Gambling News Archive

Controversy in Australia as electro-shockwave treatment administered in error

Friday 5th December 2008

The Australian horse racing industry has been dragged into a major controversy when Melbourne cup runner-up Bauer was found to have received electro-shockwave therapy in the five days before the race. While this type of treatment is allowed in the UK up to race day, it is illegal in the five days before any race in Australia. However, it now appears that one of the officially appointed vets had suggested the treatment so the horse will be allowed to retain its runner-up spot in the Melbourne cup.

The ruling by Racing Victoria Limited, the administrators of the Melbourne cup, has prompted a barrage of criticism from fellow horse owners some of whom are threatening legal action against the RVL. While it is unclear as to whether any potential legal action would be successful, there is no doubt that this is a very difficult situation for Australian horse racing. While perhaps not the best start for Betfair, who have invested heavily into the region and introduced in-play betting for punters, there is no doubt that Australian is set for worldwide exposure.

Betfair now offers exposure to all of the major horse racing nations of the world allowing punters to gamble 24 hours a day 7 days a week if they so choose.


Source: Gambling.co.uk News