TVG, Hollywood in Broadcast Fee Dispute

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Advance deposit wagering provider TVG did not accept bets on Hollywood Park races April 22 as the Inglewood track opened its 65-day spring/summer meet.

The racing network broadcast the races live from Hollywood while making periodic apologies for being unable to accept wagers on the track's eight-race program.

"A difference of opinion exists as to the TV fee that should be charged by TVG for races it televises at Hollywood Park," said Jack Liebau, president of Hollywood Park, in an e-mail statement. "I believe that this is the only remaining difference between the parties, and I am hopeful it will be resolved shortly."

John Hindman, TVG's general counsel, could not be reached for comment. A spokesman for the company said a statement would be forthcoming.

Drew Couto, president of the Thoroughbred Owners of California, said that to his knowledge, the "squabble" was between Hollywood Park and TVG and was not related to the horsemen's impasse over revenue splits that brought a stoppage to ADW during Hollywood's autumn meet last year.

"The rates for Hollywood are the same ones that applied to Santa Anita," he said.

ADW on Hollywood is available through TVG competitors XpressBet, TwinSpires and Youbet.com, Couto said.
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