RACING UK’S REBRAND HAS AN ‘EXTRA’ STREAM

RACING UK’S new-year rebrand as Racing TV is to feature an ‘Extra’ stream to ensure full coverage of all its 61 racecourses following the acquisition of all Irish content. The channel, owned by parent company Racecourse Media Group (RMG), has also snapped up competitor At The Races’ Irish presenter Gary O’Brien (right) for its Irish coverage in time for its relaunch on January 1. O’Brien will broadcast to its 50,000 British and Irish subscribers and 6,000 pubs and clubs — alongside new high-profile colleague Ruby Walsh — while Kevin O’Ryan, also formerly of ATR, Kate Harrington and Donn McClean will be part of the coverage too. A statement from RMG read: ‘Racing UK has today announced that it will become Racing TV — as the channel looks forward to welcoming racing from all 26 Irish racecourses from January 1 2019. ‘From next year, Racing TV will broadcast live racing from 61 racecourses — equating to more than 70 per cent of all racing from Britain and Ireland, including nearly 90 per cent of all Group and Graded races. ‘It means that Racing TV will have only one day without any live racing outside of Good Friday and four days at Christmas.’ Plans for the broadcast team were also included, as well as apparent confirmation that selected content will air online. The release added: ‘Each of the 61 racecourses will have its own dedicated live stream available on Racing TV Extra, a feature of Racing TV’s digital platform. ‘This means live coverage of every British and Irish race in its entirety, as well as uninterrupted paddock, going down and unsaddling coverage, will be available to Racing TV members. Racing TV Extra will be available via the website, mobile and TV Apps for all members.’