America TAB, a horse racing wagering provider licensed by the Oregon Racing Commission, last month launched a free text-based mobile service that can be accessed from any WAP-enabled device in 35 U.S. states.
The service, called "On the Go," is available through all of America Tab's affiliates, which include WinTicket.com, BrisBET.com, BetHarness.com, MyRaceBet.com, Thoroughbets.com, tBet.com, TsnBET.com, WatchandWager.com, WinAtTheWire.com, HipodromoEnLinea.com.
From each affiliate site, customers can use any WAP-enabled palm pilot, pocket pc, or cell phone to check their account status, view odds, race results, and entries, and place wagers on any of the available races from about 100 thoroughbred and harness tracks around the U.S. Each of the affiliates' mobile services can be accessed by attaching the prefix mobile. to the beginning of each companies name. For example BrisBET's mobile service is at mobile.brisbet.com and TsnBET's is at mobile.tsnbet.com.
America TAB's mobile service, like its Internet-based service, was largely developed by its technology partners AmTote International and Bloodstock Research Information Services. Mobile customers enjoy the same 128-bit encryption security that America Tab's Internet-based services use.
Charlie Ruma, America TAB's managing director, said, "This is a good partnership in that the platform has been in development for years. We think our customers will find that it is as easy to use as our personal computer service. Our partners in Oregon have built the most comprehensive platform that is compatible with our navigation and features. The maturity of this system will elevate us as a leader in this technology."
He added, "With the expected boom in wireless connectivity, our customers will have additional flexibility in accessing their accounts. While others are charging for this technology, we wanted to continue with the philosophy that we offer our features at no charge."
Oregon-based America TAB, formerly called Ohio TAB, is principally owned by Beulah Park and River Downs. The company was originally founded in 1994 by Beulah Park, River Downs, Scioto Downs, and Thistledown. As a partnership of racetracks, America TAB returns a share of revenue to its track partners and local horsemen's purse accounts.