Latest News
New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing and 1/ST Unveil Partnership to Elevate Global Thoroughbred Racing

New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) is excited to announce a transformative partnership with 1/ST, the premier North American Thoroughbred racing, gaming and entertainment company. Known for its iconic venues, including Santa Anita Park (California) and Gulfstream Park (Florida), 1/ST is a leader in modernizing horse racing by blending live racing with innovative gaming, hospitality and lifestyle experiences.
As leaders of world-class racing, hospitality and entertainment events, 1/ST is also committed to advancing racing’s global profile through cutting-edge technology and international collaboration. This partnership brings a unique opportunity to connect three prestigious racedays: Auckland Thoroughbred Racing’s Champions Day (March 8 – featuring The G1 Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes, named after legendary 1987 Australian Horse of The Year Champion and NZ Hall of Famer, Bonecrusher) alongside 1/ST’s Pegasus World Cup (January 25) and California Crown (September 27).
This collaboration will introduce “Golden Ticket” pathways, offering the winning horses direct entry into marquee races including:
From the Pegasus World Cup (25 January 2025) to Champions Day (8 March 2025):
- The US$500,000 Group 2 Pegasus World Cup Filly & Mare Turf (1600m) winner earns entry to the NZ$600,000 Group 1 World Pool New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1600m).
- The US$1,000,000 Group 1 Pegasus World Cup Turf (1800m) winner gains entry to the NZ$1,000,000 Group 1 Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes (2000m).
From Champions Day (8 March 2025) to California Crown (27 September 2025):
- The NZ$500,000 Rich Hill Stud Champion Middle Distance Series winner secures a Golden Ticket to the US$750,000 Group 1 California Crown John Henry Turf (2000m).
- The NZ$500,000 Sport Nation Champion Sprint Series winner earns entry to the US$750,000 Group 2 California Crown US$750,000 Eddie D Turf Sprint (1300m).
To further enhance the partnership, NZTR and 1/ST will cover travel and freight costs for Golden Ticket-winning horses travelling internationally to compete in the respective countries.
“This partnership marks an exciting milestone in showcasing New Zealand racing on the world stage,” commented Chief Operating Officer of NZTR, Darin Balcombe. “The Golden Ticket concept creates a unique pathway for international competition, enriching the experience for racing participants and fans alike.”
Aidan Butler, President of 1/ST, added: “This partnership with NZTR exemplifies our commitment to elevating Thoroughbred racing globally. By linking these iconic racedays and supporting international competition, we’re looking to drive innovation, collaboration and global excitement in the sport.”
Lachlan Fitt, Deputy CEO of Entain Australia and New Zealand, operators of the NZ TAB, also welcomed the announcement:
“Congratulations to NZTR and 1/ST on reaching this exciting outcome. The partnership will continue the opportunity for NZ racing to be showcased to racing fans globally and is another new pathway for NZ racing participants to consider. And through our Trackside and Sport Nation media brands, we look forward to bringing the best of US racing to our wagering customers in NZ.”
This partnership paves the way for significant growth in Thoroughbred racing across both regions, with both NZTR and 1/ST excited to build on this promising foundation moving forward.
For more information about the partnership and Golden Ticket races, contact NZTR’s Head Handicapper Bruce Sherwin by emailing [email protected].
Latest News
Casino Guru enriches its portfolio with a dedicated sweepstakes casino database and updated safety index

Casino Guru, the global authority on online casino transparency and player safety, is expanding its portfolio with the introduction of a dedicated sweepstakes casino overview tailored to the rapidly evolving U.S. market.
Following months of in-depth research and development, the company has unveiled a new initiative focused on social sweepstakes casinos — a unique and increasingly popular segment of the online gaming space. As part of this expansion, Casino Guru has adapted its trusted Safety Index to reflect the specific characteristics of sweepstakes casino models.
“We’ve been hearing about sweepstakes casinos for quite some time, from social media buzz to community discussions and expert panels,” said Jozef Krucay, Branch Operations Lead at Casino Guru. “It became clear this wasn’t just a passing trend, but a notable shift in how people engage with online entertainment.”
Unlike traditional online casinos, sweepstakes casinos use virtual currencies such as Gold Coins, Sweeps Cash, or Vegas Gems. Players can enjoy games for free or use purchasable coins to enhance their experience. With some luck, they may receive a special sweepstakes currency, which can be redeemed for real-world prizes — presenting both exciting opportunities and important considerations for player protection.
Casino Guru’s newly launched content includes:
- Listings for 11 published sweepstakes casinos, with over 60 more identified and currently in development
- An adapted Safety Index that reflects the distinct risks and rules of sweepstakes platforms
- Educational materials and player resources, including complaint-handling tools
- Planned detailed reviews to provide deeper insights into each platform
“Our goal is to help players navigate this growing space with the same clarity and confidence we’ve brought to traditional online casinos,” Jozef added. “As always, our focus remains on transparency, safety, and informed decision-making.”
This new direction positions Casino Guru at the forefront of player advocacy in emerging casino formats — with a clear path toward future expansion in the broader world of social and sweepstakes gaming.
Conferences
Fast Track showcases AI-driven CRM, gamification and bonus abuse prevention at SBC Americas 2025

Fast Track announces its participation at the upcoming SBC Summit Americas 2025, taking place between May 13-15 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The event is one of the most significant gatherings for the Latin American and North American iGaming markets, and will bring together operators and suppliers from across the region, offering a unique platform for innovation and collaboration.
As Fast Track continues to strengthen its’ market regional presence, the tech supplier will showcase its full lineup of solutions that set it apart in the iGaming industry: CRM, AI-driven gamification, and bonus abuse prevention. These core three pillars work together to help operators across Latin America and North America to enhance player engagement, manage risks, and drive sustainable growth.
“Fast Track has established a solid presence across several North and Latin American markets, and the SBC Summit Americas is the perfect platform for us to connect with both existing partners and new operators,” said Simon Lidzén, Co-Founder and CEO of Fast Track. “We’re excited to showcase how our AI-driven ecosystem is helping operators transform player engagement and achieve exponential growth.”
Visitors to Fast Track’s stands D430 and D440 will have the opportunity to explore the company’s complete product offering, including:
- CRM: Built around the innovative concept of Singularity, Fast Track’s CRM enables operators to deliver highly personalised, dynamic player experiences that boost retention and loyalty.
- Rewards: An AI-driven gamification ecosystem designed to seamlessly integrate with CRM operations, turning every player visit into a rewarding experience.
- Greco: The only Gameplay Risk Engine offering operators real-time insights and advanced risk management capabilities by providing detailed insights into player activity.
Latest News
LuckBet Named Master Sponsor of LFA 209, Marking MMA History in Mato Grosso

Rising sports betting platform LuckBet has been announced as the master sponsor for LFA 209, the first edition of the Legacy Fighting Alliance (LFA) to be held in Mato Grosso, Brazil. The event, widely known as the top development platform for future UFC fighters, takes place May 24 at the Malai Manso Resort, in Chapada dos Guimarães, and represents a major milestone for mixed martial arts in the region.
The sponsorship deal includes on-site brand visibility, exclusive content for social media, and live activations during the event, which will be broadcast live and exclusively on UFC Fight Pass.
“We’re proud to be the only betting company from Mato Grosso legally operating in Brazil,” said Ivan Dutra, CEO of LuckBet. “This sponsorship is a strategic move to connect with a new audience while promoting a globally respected sport. It’s even more meaningful as the LFA makes its debut in our home state.”
High Stakes in the Cage
LFA 209’s main event features Brazilians Inglesson De Lara and Bruno “Xinoco” Henrique, battling it out in the featherweight division. The event marks LFA’s 22nd event in Brazil since expanding internationally in 2021 and is the second time the promotion touches down in the Central-West Region, following a prior event in the Federal District.
This edition is supported by the Mato Grosso Secretary of Culture, Sports and Leisure (SECEL-MT) and held at the Malai Manso Resort, the only all-inclusive resort in the Central-West certified by the Brazilian Resorts Association (ABR).
Broadcast starts at 9 PM (Brasília time) / 8 PM (Mato Grosso time) and features live Portuguese commentary by UFC legend and ambassador Rogério Minotouro.
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