A big Monday off the track as well as on it: Tabcorp moves on BetMakers, an American superstar writes himself into the record books, and Craig Williams collects a sixth Scobie Breasley Medal from Ukraine.
Tabcorp strikes $267 million BetMakers deal
Tabcorp is set to acquire wagering technology provider BetMakers in a deal worth more than $267 million, just weeks after receiving regulatory approval for its proposed National Tote.
BetMakers' extensive wagering infrastructure includes a global tote platform, and the acquisition is expected to accelerate Tabcorp's National Tote strategy while providing opportunities to grow its international business. CEO Gillon McLachlan said the deal would allow Tabcorp to execute its broader strategy with greater speed and efficiency.
Sovereignty makes history in the Whitney
American superstar Sovereignty added another chapter to an extraordinary career with a dominant victory in the Grade 1 Whitney Stakes at Saratoga.
The reigning US Horse of the Year stormed home to score by 4¾ lengths, becoming the first horse in history to win the Kentucky Derby, Travers Stakes and Whitney Stakes. The son of Into Mischief is destined for a stallion career at Darley America.
Williams claims a sixth Scobie Breasley Medal
Champion jockey Craig Williams has collected his sixth Scobie Breasley Medal, adding another honour after securing the Melbourne jockeys' premiership.
Williams accepted the award via video while overseas on a humanitarian mission in Ukraine, with his father Allan receiving the medal on his behalf.
Half Yours was crowned Victorian Racehorse of the Year following his Caulfield–Melbourne Cup double, while Tony and Calvin McEvoy received the Most Outstanding Training Performance award for their work with the champion stayer.
Racing Victoria takes its case to Canberra
Racing Victoria CEO Aaron Morrison has been in Canberra advocating on behalf of the industry as it faces several key challenges at a federal level.
Morrison stressed the industry's economic importance and its position as one of Australia's largest employers as Racing Victoria continues to push its case with the Federal Government.
New Moonee Valley begins to take shape
The redevelopment of Moonee Valley is progressing, with the new-look racecourse beginning to take shape. Racing is currently scheduled to return to the famous venue in August 2027 as one of Australian racing's biggest infrastructure projects continues.
Goodwin and Lane dominate Pakenham
It was a huge day at Pakenham for trainer Reece Goodwin and jockey Damian Lane, who combined to win the final three races on the card. The clean sweep delivered Goodwin the first treble of his training career, with Lane providing a perfect finish to the meeting.
The three-year-old race producing future stars
While The Rosebud carries the stakes status in Sydney this weekend, the accompanying three-year-old Benchmark 72 has quietly developed an impressive record as a spring launching pad.
The race was won by Ninja in 2025, and Autumn Glow took it out in 2024. With both going on to establish themselves among the country's most exciting gallopers, this year's edition could again prove one worth following closely.
Editorial at The Daily Punt, covering Australian racing and sport with an eye for where the value sits.
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