I haven’t written a blog for a while, but sometimes I feel it necessary. Today, I’d like to compliment Betway on their efforts for racing in Gauteng and Port Elizabeth.
Among a number of praiseworthy aspects, their bonus payments to owners are sincerely welcomed. On Friday, 22 September, Grazinginthegrass, a six-year-old I own with Arun Chadha’s ASSM Syndicate and Noeline Malherbe, won his 13th race. This was a terrific training feat for Alan Greeff, who started training him when he was a one-time winner in 2020.
Grazingthegrass has given us much joy. A few of his wins came unexpected on Fridays at Fairview. I’ve been amazed at how he’s kept going and improved. Best was this time, when, on top of the winner’s cheque, the partners also received a R50,000 bonus from 4Racing and Betway. I hadn’t known about this, it was a pleasant surprise.
In short: There is a lot going on in Cape Racing for which Greg Bortz and his team, and Hollywoodbets have deservedly received heaps of accolades. Credit and appreciation for Betway hasn’t been as forthcoming on social media forums and in the media and one has to wonder why.
Betway have come to the party, big time, with injections of sponsorship, bonus cheques for winning trainers and incentives for grooms at grass roots level. Their bonuses to grooms have been a game-changer for us. Their spring series and the R5-million sponsorship of the Summer Cup is an indication of their commitment and that gives me hope for the future.
If you’ve met Betway’s Jonathan Blumberg you will know how passionate he is about lifting racing in the 4Racing regions to higher levels. He is part of a dynamic team led by CEO Laurence Michel, who is incidentally also capable golfer when he is away from his office desk. They have a genuine desire to assist owners, trainers and grooms in the 4Racing territories, and they’re in line with Mary Slack’s objectives to develop racing from its grass roots.
Let’s give credit where it’s due. And, if you haven’t opened an account with Betway yet, you can do so here, support racing via the tote and enjoy their excellent online betting platform.