Irish bookmakers have promised to revamp their betting rings on Irish racecourses and have introduced a code of practice which includes highlighting the maximum amount each individual bookmaker is willing to lose.
The Irish National Bookmakers' Association (INBA) launched their plans yesterday in an effort to get more race-goers to use the betting ring.
The first phase of the plan involves changing the appearance of the rings with the introduction of new stands or "joints" which will enable bookmakers to introduce computerisation.
The new code of practice is set to be displayed prominently in the ring at all meetings and will also include an agreement to highlight minimum bets. A promotion campaign to encourage first-time race-goers to bet will include the distribution of 100,000 leaflets and advertising in key publications.
The INBA chairman, Francis Hyland, said: "While there is a recognition that bookies add to the colour of Irish racing there is also a perception we have not moved with the times. Our new programme aims to redress that situation."
Cashmans have opened a book on Saturday's Down Royal showpiece, the James Nicholson Wine Merchant Champion Chase, installing Willie Mullins's Florida Pearl as the 7 to 4 favourite.
Betting: 7-4 Florida Pearl, 2-1 Strong Promise, 5-2 Dorans Pride, 13-2 Ferbet Junior, 16-1 Moscow Express, 25-1 Foxchapel King, 331 Manus The Man, 100-1 Blue Irish.
