WO2001041035A1

WO2001041035A1 - Interactive on line wagering system

Info

Publication number: WO2001041035A1
Application number: PCT/AU2000/001494
Authority: WO
Inventors: Gary Francis Buttsworth; John Michael Nairn Houston; Timothy John Ryan; Scott Hammond Woodward
Original assignee: Sportxite Limited
Priority date: 1999-12-03
Filing date: 2000-12-03
Publication date: 2001-06-07
Also published as: AUPQ445399A0

Abstract

An interactive on line betting system which enables at least one remote participant to obtain real time betting data from a virtual betting ring to enable the participant to make a wagering choice from collective and comparative data available from the virtual betting ring. The system comprises: at least one remote station enabling a remote participant to connect to an Internet host provider web site via a communications device; a first server in communication with the provider web site, a computer in communication with the first server and with a first data base of betting information. The system further comprises a second server in communication with said first computer and in communication with a second data base containing materials and data including bookmaker odds and/or prices from a first bookmaker linked to said second server, and at least one other server linked to a third data base which contains betting information about a second bookmaker in communication with said at least one other server. When the remote participant connects to the internet via said remote station, said participant gains access to said second and third data bases via said first data base; wherein the player interacts with said bookmakers to obtain betting information as if the player was in a real on course betting ring.

Description

INTERACTIVE ON LINE WAGERING SYSTEM The present invention relates to on line interactive wagering and more particularly relates to a system and method involving participant interaction with a real time virtual betting ring More particularly the invention provides an on line interactive environment enabling a participant to gain real time access information from the virtual betting ring for use by the participant as if that participant was present in an on course betting ring

PRIOR ART

There are in existence on line sports betting systems which enable participant interaction via internet web sites wherein the participant may place bets on selected sporting events such as football, motor racing and horse racing One such system known as Easybets on Line ™ provides a participant with the opportunity to choose a sport on which to wager a bet once accounting criteria have been satisfied Once a participant has joined as a member, there is ready access to such data as latest betting odds obtained from a betting database, results of events, account status and rules and regulations Once the account has been opened by a participant and funds deposited on line (preferably via credit card ) into the participants account, bets may be placed immediately The participant enters an events web page which provides an event selection Once a sport is selected, the participant may then enter a bet amount following which the bet is officially placed This particular website provides odds to assist the punter from that web site only and does not provide comparative odds or prices from a plurality of sources such as multiple bookmakers, enabling the player to make choices which would normally be available for instance at an actual gaming event such as horse racing where a betting ring is operational Also, the above system is not accessible other than through a service provider via the Internet which restricts the participant mobility in that betting may only take place when the participant is connected via a computer A further limitation of that system is that the participant cannot compare odds and prices with those of other sites unless the participant accesses other sites for the purpose of making the comparison. This is too time consuming to be a practical proposition and cannot be done at the same time. Nso, funds in the participant's account are only available for use with bets via the specific site. Should the participant choose to view another betting website, it would be necessary for the participant to establish separate accounts with each site. There are other Interactive real time network gaming systems such as that described in US Patent 5,762,552 which teaches a network based gaming system that enables a plurality of players to place wagers on a real time game of chance conducted in a casino via a distributed network or alternatively to place wagers on a game of chance using internally generated game sequences. The systems described in this patent predominately relate to live action board games of chance, such as roulette, craps or baccarat from which the player selects the desired game. Once the game is selected the player is presented with a video representation of the possible bets on the gaming machine and a means for establishing a stake by either depositing currency or by accessing various credit accounts such as a credit card or casino credit line. The results of the gaming are transmitted to a remote gaming machine by a network manager. This system does not enable a player to make comparative analysis of betting options based on data provided from a remote group of bookmakers who compete for the participant's patronage. Nor does that system enable on line access other than through a participant computer where access is only available at the time of access to the computer. There are no alternatives available to enable a player to obtain real time betting ring data prior to placing of a wager and at a location remote from where access is obtained There is an increasing awareness of the facility of on line gambling in various forms but there are some forms of gambling such as turf and dog racing where there is no system available on line which provides a true simulation of conditions as they are in the betting ring. There is a general belief that betting on horse racing track side is dying in favour of access to alternative gambling mediums such as via the Internet. This has caused gaming providers and bookmakers to explore new mediums for provision of their services not only to supplement existing services but to widen markets Traditionally, bookmakers have been sole practitioners not operating at race tracks or in collective associations for provision of their services However, with the increased competition from alternative and more immediate and convenient gambling services, bookmakers will to survive have to embrace alternative high tech mediums for selling their services As a result of the dramatic changes to the industry, on line bookmakers are aggregating into larger units in order to embrace new technologies as collectives. It is unlikely that sole practitioners will be eliminated as it is still feasible for an individual to provide betting services on line There are presently in existence bookmakers who operate on line wagering systems but these are restricted to information provided exclusively by the individual bookmakers or the bookmaker^'s company These systems provide a gambler with information only from one source and the participant has no way of determining instantly whether prices or odds from that bookmaker are competitive relative to prices which may be provided by another bookmaker on a selected event such as a horse race or sporting event The participant can check the competitiveness of data provided by another bookmaker by accessing their websites but this is a tedious and time consuming activity with a strong disincentive to spend the time as by the time the information is obtained, more than likely the price will have changed It is therefore impossible with the existing systems to simulate real time on course betting due to the time delay required to access the information Also, the existing arrangements do not simulate a real betting ring as would be found on a course where the punter can readily and immediately compare bookmaker odds and prices on a given event Another disadvantage of the existing on line betting arrangements is that the participant must open one account and place funds with that one book maker A participant may open accounts with other bookmakers but only one bookmaker may be accessed at a time and each account can only be operated by access to the bookmaker with whom the account is held. Where the participant wishes to bet with other bookmakers separate accounts must be opened. Clearly this is impractical and is far from a true simulation of on course betting conditions which the coursing punter is accustomed to. INVENTION

The present invention seeks to ameliorate the disadvantages of the above described known systems by providing a virtual real time betting ring comprising a collection of unrelated bookmakers from which can be obtained for use by at least one remote participant, instant betting information. The participant will be able to view or hear the betting information via selected communication means such as but not limited to a computer, cell phone, WAP phone, digital communications device such as a television and a GPRS internet device. More particularly, the present invention seeks to provide an improvement to the known systems by providing an interactive on line wagering system and method of operation thereof wherein there is available to a participant a virtual betting ring which is not only accessible from a variety of remote communication means such as a touch tone cellular phone, on line via a Hotmail ™ system (referred to as a 'kiosk') or on line via a personal computer linked to the Internet. The system according to the present invention simulates actual betting conditions as if the participant was at a real betting ring. This provides the participant with a wide variety of betting data, the ability to compare odds offered by a plurality of bookmakers and choice as to whom to place a bet with. One improvement over the known systems is the provision of linked bookmakers displaying data which is collectively available to the participant for making a real time informed choice about a betting option as if the participant was present at a betting track. The proposed system provides a virtual, real time transactional environment including an aggregation of live competitive and comparable betting data provided by a plurality of independent bookmakers on selected sporting and other events The user will be provided with a range of comparative price propositions which are updated in real time and with viewing access by the remote user, whereupon, when predetermined entry criteria are satisfied, the user may place a bet using the user account on any available event through any of the bookmakers in the betting ring whereupon winnings will be credited by the pre selected bookmaker to the users account via an intermediary website host provider The participant will be able to place a bet with the bookmaker of choice following an instant comparison of betting data including odds and prices as would be available at a race track

In one broad form the present invention comprises an interactive betting system enabling a participant to obtain real time betting data from a virtual betting ring to enable that participant to make an informed wagering choice from collective and comparative data available from the virtual betting ring, wherein the system comprises at least one remote participant able to connect via an electronic to an Internet web site or to an operator in communication with a web site, a first server associated with said web site, a first device in communication with said server and in communication with a first data base of betting information said first device also in communication with an accounts data base and which is capable of transmitting data to and from said accounts data base responsive to information provided by said at least one participant, the system further comprising a second server in communication with said first device and in communication with a second data base containing materials and data including bookmaker odds and/or prices from a first bookmaker linked to said second server, and at least one other server linked to a third data base which contains betting information about another bookmaker in communication with said at least one other server wherein when said remote participant connects to said system via said electronic device, said participant gains access to said second and third data bases via said first data base, wherein the player interacts with said bookmakers to obtain betting information as if the player was in a real on course betting ring

According to the preferred embodiment, the participant may view the betting information available but cannot place a bet until predetermined membership and account criteria are satisfied In an alternative embodiment betting information is blocked from view until predetermined access criteria are satisfied The criteria in that case might be accounting or basic membership criteria

In another broad form the present invention comprises an interactive betting system enabling a participant to obtain betting data from a virtual betting ring to enable that participant to make an informed wagering choice from collective and comparative data available from the virtual betting ring, wherein the system comprises at least one remote participant having electronic means to connect to an Internet web site, a first server associated with said web site, a computer in communication with said server and in communication with a first data base of betting information said computer also in communication with an accounts data base and which is capable of transmitting data to and from said accounts data base responsive to information provided by said at least one participant, the system further comprising a second server in communication with said first computer and in communication with a second data base containing materials and data including bookmaker odds from a first bookmaker linked to said second server, and a plurality of additional servers each linked to a corresponding data base which contains betting information about a bookmaker in communication with each said additional servers, wherein when said remote participant connects to said system via said electronic means, said participant gains access to said first and each said corresponding data bases enabling the player to interact with each and every said bookmakers to obtain betting information as if the player was in a real betting ring, wherein a bet may be placed by the participant with one or more pre selected bookmakers once predetermined account criteria have been satisfied

According to a preferred embodiment the electronic means used by the remote participant is either a land line phone, cellular phone, computer or data stream television or kiosk system which allows access from any computer The player has a choice of access means which enables the player to access the system at almost any time to down load betting data from one or more of said bookmakers

In another broad form the present invention comprises an interactive betting system enabling a participant to obtain betting data from a virtual betting ring to enable that participant to make an informed wagering choice from collective and comparative data available from the virtual betting ring, wherein the system comprises at least one remote participant and a participant communication means selected from one or more of a land line telephone, a computer, a data stream TV, touch tone cellular phone or

'kiosk' computer enabling connection to a plurality of betting ring data bases via an Internet web site, a first server associated with said web site, a computer in communication with said server and in communication with a first data base of betting information a first server associated with said web site, a computer in communication with said server and in communication with a first data base of betting information said computer also in communication with an accounts data base and which is capable of transmitting data to and from said accounts data base responsive to information provided by said at least one participant, the system further comprising a second server in communication with said first computer and in communication with a second data base containing materials and data including bookmaker odds from a first bookmaker linked to said second server, and a plurality of additional servers each linked to a corresponding data base which contains betting information about a bookmaker in communication with each said additional servers, wherein, when said remote participant connects to said system via said electronic means, wherein said participant gains access to said first and each said corresponding data bases enabling the player to interact with each and every said bookmakers to obtain betting information as if the player was in a real betting ring , such that the information ( odds and/or prices ) from a plurality of bookmakers may be compared enabling the participant to make a competitive bet

According to a preferred embodiment the electronic means used by the remote participant is either a land line phone, cellular phone, computer or data stream television The player has a choice of access means which enables the participant to access the system at almost any time to down load betting data from one or more of said bookmakers and subject to account verification place a bet

In another broad form, the present invention comprises, an on line interactive virtual betting ring including a plurality of bookmakers in communication with a corresponding betting information data base linked to each bookmaker but independent of each other at least one remote participant having electronic means to gain access to said betting information via a provider web site on the Internet, an accounting data base intermediate the provider web site and said virtual betting ring which enables communication between said betting information and said at least one remote participant, wherein each said participant may access said betting information from each bookmaker enabling each said participant to compare said information whereupon the participant may make a bet based on said information when predetermined participant account criteria have been satisfied, and wherein each said bookmakers are individually linked to a private network intermediate said virtual betting ring and said web site provider, said network barring bookmaker access to betting information of a competing bookmaker but allowing said at least one remote participant access to information from each and every bookmaker

In a further form the present invention comprises, an on line interactive betting system including at least one participant at a remote station means for communication between said remote station and said and a host server or provider of data to said participant, means to enable financial transactions between said server and said participant once said participant has satisfied predetermined eligibility criteria, a network of terminal server data bases operated by individual bookmakers connected to said betting system and remote from but in direct or indirect communication with said host server or provider, communications means for connecting each of said terminal server data bases and said host server database into a common telecommunications network, wherein said communication means comprises at least one fixed terminal such as a computei or portable device such as a cellular phone enabling remote participant access to betting information stored on said host server computer

In another broad form of the method aspect the present invention comprises, a method of on line interactive wagering wherem at least one remote participant has access to a virtual betting ring comprising a plurality of mutually independent bookmakers, said method comprising the steps of a) taking a communications device enabling a remote participant to gain access to a provider website via the Internet, through an operator accessible by phone or via a 'kiosk computer, b) opening communication with said provider web site, c) providing access information to said provider to enable said provider to determine whether predetermined access criteria of a particular participant have been satisfied, d) once said access criteria have been satisfied, allowing said remote participant to gain access to said virtual betting ring comprising said plurality of independent bookmakers, e) comparing information from two or more said bookmakers in said virtual betting ring to enable a remote participant to make an informed choice as to a wager on an available event According to a preferred embodiment, the said communication device may be selected from either a land line telephone, a cellular phone, a computer or data stream television According to a preferred embodiment, the method comprises the further step of prior to making a wager, down loading betting information from two or more said bookmakers to said communication device or receiving pushed data via said communication device enabling said remote participant to make an informed choice as to which bookmaker a wager is to be placed with The remote participant may choose on which event to place a bet based on data such as odds and betting prices obtained from the bookmakers in said virtual betting ring

In its broadest form the present invention comprises an interactive on line betting system wherein remote participants, gain access to betting information supplied by a plurality of independent bookmakers in a virtual betting ring to enable the remote participants to compare and contrast data from each said bookmakers and ultimately select a preferred bookmaker and interact with that bookmakers server, the system further comprising an accounts register for each participant and means to monitor and regulate transactions depending upon the participants account status

The present invention will now be described in more detail according to preferred but non limiting embodiments and with reference to the accompanying illustrations wherein, Figure 1 shows a schematic layout of an on line interactive virtual betting ring according to a preferred embodiment of the invention Figure 2 shows a schematic layout of an on line interactive virtual betting ring according to a preferred embodiment of the invention detailing member access protocol via a computer or wireless application protocol Figure 3 shows a schematic layout of an on line interactive virtual betting ring according to a preferred embodiment of the invention detailing non-member access protocol Figure 4 shows a schematic layout of an on line interactive virtual betting ring according to a preferred embodiment of the invention detailing non-member or member access protocol via a telephone operator Referring to figure 1 there is shown a schematic layout of an on line virtual betting ring according to a preferred embodiment of the invention The system depicted typically comprises a remote participant station 1 including communication means capable of connecting the participant to a host provider web site The participant has a choice of communication means According to one embodiment, the participant may gain access to a host provider web site via a land line handset 2 which is dialed in the usual manner Handset 2 may for instance be a touch phone wherein access is gained via a telephone number known to the participant

Alternatively, access to the Internet and host provider web site may be gained via a personal computer 3 which will connect to the Internet via a service provider in the usual manner In yet a further embodiment, the participant may gain access to the betting information via a data stream television unit 4 In a further embodiment, the participant may gain access to the virtual betting ring data via the host provider through a Wireless Application Protocol ( WAP) enabled cellular phone 5, via a PC or 'kiosk' computer A 'kiosk computer is similar to a Hotmail ( trade mark) arrangement wherein a remote participant may gain access to the virtual betting ring via any computer

The user therefore has a number of options for access communications The user establishes communication via communications link 6 with the Internet 7 via a service provider in the conventional manner Once connected to the Internet the participant locates the web address for the host provider computer 10 Host provider 10 may present a further barrier to access to the betting data until the remote participant at station 1 has provided user information such as a password, identifying number, account number or the like to ensure that the participant is eligible to receive data and has sufficient credit to make a wager In an alternative but preferred embodiment, the participant will have automatic viewing access to betting data but will not be able to bet until membership and/or accounts criteria are satisfied Provider web site 10 is linked to a server 8 and to data base 9 which receives and retains betting data Provider computer 10 is also connected to an accounts data base 12 via communication link 1 1 which stores information about the account status of a remote participant Data base 12 includes the remote participant's electronic wallet through which transactions are processed be they a participant deposit of funds, a credit from a betting win or debit from a betting loss The participant's electronic wallet is a virtual account held in host provider computer 10 ensuring secure transactions. Through the electronic wallet, payments may be deducted for payment to a particular bookmaker of the participant's choice from the virtual betting ring or payments to any other supplier providing goods or services via the provider system The provider computer 10 will provide a common interface between the participant and numerous additional services which supplement the virtual betting ring service

Host provider computer 10 communicates with a virtual private network 13 via communication line 1 1 a Private network 13 provides an interface between database 9 and bookmaker sub-system 17 comprising server 14 , bookmaker database 15 and bookmaker 16 Typically the bookmaker transmittal of data to database 9 for use by the remote participant when the participant has satisfied the eligibility and accounting criteria The bookmaker may have direct access to the remote participant account for the purpose of deposits and withdrawals in the event of a win or loss According to the preferred embodiment, there are a plurality of additional bookmaker sub-systems 18, 19 and 20 but it will be appreciated that there could potentially be any number of bookmaker sub-systems which interact with virtual private network 13 The system operates so that none of the bookmaker sub-systems can gain access to the data of another bookmaker, but the remote participant will have access via data base 9 of host provider 10 to all available betting information in real time, in an instant as if the participant was on course and once the eligibility criteria are satisfied may place a bet A user may bet funds taken and placed in a suspense account by the host provider and once the bookmaker confirms bet money the account may be operated Alternatively, the bookmaker may have direct access to participants' accounts controlled by the host provider In use, remote users have a choice of methods of accessing the host provider 10 via either fixed or portable devices such as personal computers, digital television receivers and the like which allows users to decide on quality and performance of communications devices In the case of fixed devices these are connected to a common communications network such as the internet Portable communication devices such as cellular phones, WAP phones, GPRS devices allow the user the opportunity to access the system from virtually anywhere The bookmakers' subsystems comprising for example server 14 and database 15 are connected to the central database 9 which is then accessed by the user from remote station 1 In practice, the bookmakers would enter a contract with the host provider 10 who would provide the requisite hardware and software and networking equipment which will enable delivery of data throughout the network

The bookmakers' subsystems are connected directly to a telecommunication which might be a Virtual Private Network 13 which is in turn connected to host provider 10 Once the participant has satisfied predetermined membership and eligibility criteria, the bookmaker may accept bets direct from the remote participant whereupon the bookmaker will be able to access the participant's account ( or electronic wallet) thereby enabling the participant to make a bet

Winnings may then be directly credited to the participant's electronic wallet

According to an alternative embodiment the bookmakers may have their own software and hardware and are connected directly to a public telecommunications network such as the

Internet

The bookmakers betting prices are aggregated in real time by the central system software and displayed on the virtual betting ring Participants' can click on the most favourable price or odds proposition and are connected directly with the bookmaker to conduct the wagering transaction using the electronic wallet According to a preferred embodiment the switching and clearance facility is connected to the central server 8 and data base 9 via a telecommunications means and provides the highest level of security for the participant and bookmakers The electronic wallet facility allows debit and credit transactions between the members electronic wallet and the bookmakers with whom they place bets and where applicable other suppliers of goods and services

Referring to figure 2 there is shown a schematic layout of an on line interactive virtual betting ring according to a preferred embodiment of the invention detailing member access protocol via a computer or wireless application protocol communications device

Access to the system is effected according to this embodiment via a personal computer ( PC) connected to a telecommunications link or WAP ( wireless application protocol) enabled cellular phone In use, the participant who may be a member, non member or guest activates the PC to access the provider website facility This is effected by a standard login

/authorisation procedure wherein the participant's membership status is checked Login will be via a password and/or user name If the participant is not recognised after checking the host provider database, an invitation will be issued to join the site Should the login identification be rejected three times the user will be invited to rejoin

Once member access is allowed, the member will be presented with the virtual betting ring whereupon the member will choose an event and after a review of the prices and odds on offer from each bookmaker will choose the bookmaker with the most attractive odds Should the participant reject the odds, the participant may then opt out of the system or to continue Upon electing to continue, the system will conduct a further transparent to user authentication and on compliance will connect the user to the chosen bookmaker's bookmaking system The user then places a wager and following a request to confirm the wager When the user confirms the wager, the system checks the electronic wallet status of the participant The user may decide at this point to place the wager unless the system credit check indicates there are insufficient funds in the electronic wallet The user's account status is constantly displayed on the screen in the virtual betting ring enabling the user to constantly monitor account status Provided there are sufficient funds in the Electronic wallet the user may continue by deciding the amount of a wager, whereupon the bet is confirmed on the screen by the host provider following an invitation to the participant to confirm the bet In the event that there are insufficient funds in the Electronic wallet, the user will be advised and may then decide to replenish the electronic wallet or to bet a lesser amount within the limit left in the user account Once the wallet is recharged, the user may place another bet following the same steps as described above Alternatively, the user may continue with the original bet once sufficient funds are confirmed Should the user have insufficient funds the user may return to the virtual betting ring and start the bookmaker selection process again Finally, the selected wager is confirmed on the screen whereupon the user may continue, resulting in logging of the wager through the chosen bookmaker's system This appears on the screen and the bookmaker's system makes the appropriate adjustment to the users electronic wallet Alternatively, when the bet is confirmed on the screen the bet may be rejected on the basis that it exceeds the selected bookmakers limit or the odds have changed since the original selection The participant may then elect to continue at the new odds, return to the virtual betting ring to select an alternative proposition or select a lesser amount to wager The participant may decide to replenish the electronic wallet and decide on a new wager Provided there are sufficient funds in the electronic wallet the bet is confirmed to the member on the WAP screen Where the participating member proceeds with the wager, tickets are logged to the participant's electronic wallet ledger, bookmaking system and is then presented to the participant on the screen When the wager is confirmed on the screen the system may advise that the wager has been rejected where it exceeds the bookmaker limit and/or where the odds have changed

One of the key aspects of the system described above is the user ability to select a bookmaker in real time from a pool of bookmakers linked to the system at the same time Once in the system the user is presented with listings of events on which they may consider placing a wager and a range of betting options and prices from different bookmakers which are updated live

In the event of a win, lose or draw, the user is advised of the result and any other relevant information This may be transmitted via an email message, or flashed on the display screen of the user communication device or transmitted audibly via such means as a cellular phone Figure 3 shows a schematic layout of an on line interactive virtual betting ring according to a preferred embodiment of the invention detailing non-member access protocol using a personal computer WAP phone According to the system shown, a non member may after accessing the host provider's web site, access the virtual betting ring but is advised that a wager cannot be placed without joining the host provider If the non member attempts to select a proposition, event & bookmaker with the best odds, the non member is then prompted to join If the non member refuses the system will log out If the non member agrees to join, access data, such as a login name and a password is created whereupon the new member is presented with the virtual betting ring The host provider stores new member login information, whereupon the member is presented with the virtual betting ring The participating member selects the proposition and if the member chooses not to proceed may simply log out of the system Where the member decides to proceed, from here on, the system operates essentially as described with reference to figure 2 Users may access the system and particularly the live virtual betting ring data and place wagers securely using their electronic wallet via a Wireless Application Protocol ( WAP) enabled cellular phone or other portable device connected to a telecommunications network such as the Internet, via a wireless telecommunications network, such as Global Systems Mobile, Code Division Multiple Access or an alternative technology such as the General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) Apart from the initial access alternatives the system operates in substantially the same way as when accessing it using a PC and remote participants may employ a combination of voice generated instructions and the keypad of the cellular phone or other portable device to navigate the system

Figure 4 shows a schematic layout of an on line interactive virtual betting ring according to a preferred embodiment of the invention detailing non-member or member access protocol via a telephone land line This alternative access system employs an operator to assist participants wishing to make a wager The service is accessible by all types of user including guests, registered users and members within the relevant country telephone network and via a publicized telephone number

The caller will either hear a live operator or an interactive voice response system or facility Non members can hear betting odds but cannot place bets until they become registered In use, the system operates in the following manner The participant contacts the telephone service on the advertised number to hear the latest odds available from the bookmakers via the host service provider. The user is greeted by the live or electronic operator who will invite the caller to press 1 if the caller is a member and 2 if the caller is a non member. For members the system will run a verification after the member has entered a user name and password. Where the system has verified the member, the operator will ask the member which event on which the member wishes to determine odds. Where the participant is recognized as a non member the operator carries out the same request. Once the member or non member has requested the odds data, the operator looks up the best odds and /or prices upon request by the member/ non member . If the user is a non member the operator will invite the user to become a member allowing the member to bet using the information provided. If the participant decides not to continue the participant hangs up. If the participant does decide to join, the host provider, the participant completes a membership process and deposits funds into a participant electronic wallet. Once the new member keys in a user name and password and they are verified, the operator asks how much the participant would like to wager on the selected event. If the user name and password are not verified the operator will again ask the participant how much the participant wishes to bet. When an amount of the wager is nominated, the operator checks that the member has sufficient funds in the electronic wallet. If there are insufficient funds, the participant will either opt out of the system, transfer additional funds into the electronic wallet or decide an alternative wager amount. Once the participant funds have been confirmed, the operator confirms details of wager with the participant and places the wager with the selected bookmaker. The operator is accessing the information from the host provider which has direct access to bookmaker odds and prices. Effectively the operator is an agent between the virtual betting ring and the participant. Once the operator asks the participant to confirm the wager and the wager is placed with the selected bookmaker, the bookmaker either confirms or rejects the bet as previously described for the systems of figures 2 and 3 If the bet is confirmed, the operator advises the member of the unique ticket number In the event of a win the winnings are credited to the participant's electronic wallet If the participant is a non member, the operator asks them for their name and requests the event and the aspect of the event on which the non member wants the odds The operator looks up the best odds on the host provider system and quotes them and the bookmaker to the non member The operator will then ask the non member whether to proceed with the bet and if affirmative, the operator advises that the non member must join to place a bet

The participant can then complete membership processing creating a user name and password The operator checks that the system verifies the user name and password and that can be entered via a keypad Once verification is complete, the operator asks the user how much is to be wagered whereupon the new member proceeds as previously described According to a further embodiment, participants may gain access to the system via remote 'kiosks' located for example in hotels, public houses, clubs or other public amenities and which are linked to the Internet or other form of communications network An example of a kiosk would be a Hotmail ™ network In an alternative embodiment, access may be obtained via a PC, WAP enabled cellular phone, GPRS or other portable device or via a 'kiosk' computer and users may employ a combination of voice generated instructions and the touch screen or keypad of the 'kiosk' to navigate the system

The virtual betting ring provides a live comparison table of the odds offered by a selection of unrelated and competitive bookmakers on a wide range of events Users may compare odds on offer from the different bookmakers and place a bet directly with that bookmaker at the most favourable odds using funds from a user^'s electronic wallet

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a replay score service which provides a replay of certain scoring occurrences during and/or after events in which members may have placed a bet for example The replay score service may be accessed via each of the provider or virtual betting ring channels as with an audio or video clip or both The service relies upon an arrangement between the provider and a broadcaster of live sporting events The provider will take the live feed from the broadcaster and an operator clips the feed into relevant pieces focused around scoring occurrences during the event such as scoring tries in football or goals in soccer

The member may configure their profile to request certain scoring updates at certain points in the event to be sent to a device or devices of their choice and for them to be altered by a means of their choice

In a further variation of the system participants may interact with bookmakers by auctioning bets to the highest bidder Thus a participant will nominate a bet amount and the bookmakers will each bid in the hope of securing the bet for themselves Eventually the bet will go to the highest bidder over a predetermined time period

It will be recognised by persons skilled in the art that numerous variations and modifications may be made to the invention as broadly described herein without departing from the overall spirit and scope of the invention

Claims

THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS

1 An interactive on line betting system which enables at least one remote participant to obtain real time betting data from a virtual betting ring to enable the participant to make a wagering choice from collective and comparative data available from ihe virtual betting ring, wherein the system comprises at least one remote station enabling a remote participant to connect to an Internet host provider web site via a communications device, a first server in communication with said provider web site, a computer in communication with said first server and with a first data base of betting information the system further comprising a second server in communication with said first computer and in communication with a second data base containing materials and data including bookmaker odds and/or prices from a first bookmaker linked to said second server, and at least one other server linked to a third data base which contains betting information about a second bookmaker in communication with said at least one other server wherein, when said remote participant connects to the internet via said remote station, said participant gains access to said second and third data bases via said first data base, wherein the player interacts with said bookmakers to obtain betting information as if the player was in a real on course betting ring.

2 A betting system according to claim 1 wherein said first computer communicates with an accounts data base and which is capable of transmitting data to and from said accounts data base responsive to information provided by said at least one participant

3 A system according to claim 2 wherein, a participant may view the betting information available on said second and /or third data bases but cannot place a bet until predetermined account criteria are satisfied

4 A system according to claim 3 wherein said communications device may be selected from a remote computer, a land line telephone, a WAP phone, cell phone, computer data stream television or GRPS device or Hotmail ™ computer system which allows access from any computer

5 A system according to claim 4 wherein said first data base includes data on one or more remote participants

6 A system according to claim 5 wherein a remote participant can compare odds offered by one bookmaker with odds offered by another bookmaker

7 An interactive betting system enabling a participant to obtain betting data from a virtual betting ring to enable that participant to make an informed wagering choice from collective and comparative data available from the virtual betting ring, wherein the system comprises at least one remote participant having electronic means to connect to an Internet host provider web site, a first server associated with said web site, a computer in communication with said server and in communication with a first data base of betting information said computer also in communication with an accounts data base and which is capable of transmitting data to and from said accounts data base responsive to information provided by said at least one participant, the system further comprising a second server in communication with said first computer and in communication with a second data base containing materials and data including bookmaker odds from a first bookmaker linked to said second server, and a plurality of additional servers each linked to a corresponding data base which contains betting information about a bookmaker in communication with each said additional servers, wherein when said remote participant connects to said system via said electronic means, said participant gains access to said first and each said corresponding data bases enabling the player to interact with each and every said bookmakers to obtain betting information as if the player was in a real betting ring, wherein a bet may be placed by the participant with one or more preselected bookmakers once predetermined account criteria have been satisfied

8 An interactive betting system enabling a remote participant to obtain betting data from a virtual betting ring to enable that participant to make an informed wagering choice from collective and comparative data available from the virtual betting ring, wherein the system comprises at least one remote participant and a participant communication means selected from one or more of an operator, land line telephone, a computer, a data stream TV, touch tone cellular phone or Hotmail kiosk computer, GRPS device enabling connection of said remote participant to a plurality of betting ring data bases via an operator and/or Internet host provider web site, a first server associated with said web site, a computer in communication with said server and in communication with a first data base of betting information a first server associated with said web site, a computer in communication with said server and in communication with a first data base of betting information said computer also in communication with an accounts data base and which is capable of transmitting data to and from said accounts data base responsive to information provided by said at least one participant, the system further comprising a second server in communication with said first computer and in communication with a second data base containing materials and data including bookmaker odds from a first bookmaker linked to said second server, and a plurality of additional servers each linked to a corresponding data base which contains betting information about a bookmaker in communication with each said additional servers, wherein, when said remote participant connects to said system via said communication means, said participant gains access to said first and each said corresponding data bases enabling the player to interact with each and every said bookmakers to obtain betting information as if the player was in a real betting ring ; such that the information ( odds and/or prices ) from a plurality of bookmakers may be compared enabling the participant to make a competitive bet.

9 A system according to claim 8 wherein the participant has a choice of access means which enables the participant to access the system at any time to down load betting data from one or more of said bookmakers and subject to account verification, place a bet.

10 An on line interactive virtual betting ring including a plurality of bookmakers in communication with a corresponding betting information data base linked to each bookmaker but independent of each bookmaker: at least one remote participant able to gain access via communication means to said betting information via a host provider web site on the Internet; an accounting data base held by said host provider which includes account records of said at least one remote participant, enables intermediate the provider web site and said virtual betting ring which enables communication between said betting information and said at least one remote participant; wherein each said participant may access said betting information from each bookmaker enabling each said participant to compare said information whereupon the participant may make a bet based on said information when predetermined participant account criteria have been satisfied; and wherein each said bookmakers are individually linked to a private network intermediate said virtual betting ring and said web site provider, said network barring bookmaker access to betting information of a competing bookmaker but allowing said at least one remote participant access to information from each and every bookmaker.

1 1 An on line interactive betting system including at least one participant at a remote station; a device for communication between said remote station and said and a host server or provider of data to said participant, communications means to enable financial transactions between said server and said participant once said participant has satisfied predetermined eligibility criteria, a network of terminal server data bases operated by individual bookmakers connected to said betting system and remote from but in direct or indirect communication with said host server or provider, communications means for connecting each of said terminal server data bases and said host server database into a common telecommunications network, wherein said communication device comprises a device selected from a computer, cellular phone data stream television, WAP phone or GPRS device, enabling remote participant access to betting information stored on said host server computer

12 A system according to claim 1 1 wherein said remote participant may down load betting information from two or more said bookmakers to said communication device thereby enabling said remote participant to make an informed choice as to which bookmaker a wager is to be placed with

13 A system according to claim 12 wherein said remote participant may choose an event on which to place a bet based on data such as odds and betting prices obtained from the bookmakers in said virtual betting ring

14 An interactive on line betting system wherein remote participants, gain access to betting information supplied by a plurality of independent bookmakers in a virtual betting ring to enable the remote participants to compare and contrast data from each said bookmakers and ultimately select a preferred bookmaker and interact with a selected bookmaker's server, the system further comprising an accounts register for each participant and means to monitor and regulate transactions depending upon the participant's account status, the system further comprising means to store predetermined participant access criteria

15 A method of on line interactive wagering wherein at least one remote participant has access to a virtual betting ring comprising a plurality of mutually independent bookmakers, the method comprising the steps of: a) establishing communication via an operator or communications device between a remote participant and an internet host provider web site; b) initiating a login to said website; c) providing access information to said provider to enable said provider to determine if predetermined access criteria of a particular participant have been satisfied; d) once said access criteria have been satisfied, allowing said remote participant to gain access to said virtual betting ring comprising said plurality of independent bookmakers, e) comparing information from two or more said bookmakers in said virtual betting ring to enable a remote participant to make an informed choice as to a wager on an available event

16 A method according to claim 15 comprising the further step of transferring said remote participant to a bookmaking system of a selected bookmaker.

17 A method according to claim 16 comprising the further step of allowing said participant to place a wager with said selected bookmaker.

18 A method according to claim 17 comprising the further step of requesting said participant to confirm the amount of said wager.

19 A method according to claim 18 comprising the further step of before allowing participant access to bookmaker information, checking the status of a participant's account

20 A method according to claim 18 comprising the step of allowing participant access to said bookmaker information but before allowing a participant to make a wager, checking the status of said participant's account.

21 A method according to claim 20 wherein, in the event that the participant has insufficient funds in said participant account , the participant has the option of replenishing said account

22 A method according to claim 21 wherein, in the event that the participant has sufficient funds, said wager is confirmed to said participant.

23 A method according to claim 22 wherein said participant elects to either continue with said wager or to abandon said wager.

24 A method according to claim 23 wherein said wager is either abandoned by the participant or by said bookmaker.

25 A method according to claim 24 wherein in the event that the participant has insufficient funds, the participant has the option of replenishing said account.

26 A method according to claim 25 wherein said wager is abandoned when said wager exceeds a predetermined bookmaker wager limit or when predetermined bookmaker odds change.

27 A method according to claim 26 wherein in the event that the participant continues after confirmation of said wager, a participant ticket is logged to said host providers web site

28 A method according to claim 27 wherein in the event that the participant has a wager rejected due to a change in odds, said participant can elect to proceed with said wager at alternative odds whereupon said alternative wager is confirmed to said participant.

29 A method according to claim 28 wherein said participant is a member of said provider.

30 A method according to claim 29 wherein said communications device is a land phone, computer, WAP phone, digital receiver, cellular phone or GPRS internet access module.

31 A method of on line interactive wagering wherein at least one remote participant has access to a virtual betting ring comprising a plurality of mutually independent bookmakers, the method comprising the steps of: a) taking a communications device enabling a remote participant to gain access via the internet to a provider website, b) accessing a virtual betting ring at said provider web site, c) barring said participant from interacting with said virtual betting ring until participant access criteria are satisfied, d) inviting participant to provide access criteria to enable participant to join said provider web site, e) in the event that said participant declines to join by providing said access criteria said provider access to said virtual betting ring is terminated, f) in the event that said participant decides to join said provider as a new member, said participant provides access information to said provider which stores login information to enable said provider to access said virtual betting ring, g) presenting said virtual betting ring to said new member and allowing new member to either log out of said system or to allow authentication of new member access criteria, h) once said access criteria have been satisfied, allowing said remote participant to gain access to said virtual betting ring comprising said plurality of independent bookmakers

32 A method according to claim 31 wherein a member decides an amount to wager and places said wager

33 A method according to claim 32, comprising the further step of requesting said participant to confirm the amount of said wager

34 A method according to claim 33 comprising the further step of checking the status of a participant's account

35 A method according to claim 34 wherein, in the event that the participant has insufficient funds, the participant has the option of replenishing said account

36 A method according to claim 35 wherein, in the event that the participant has sufficient funds, said wager is confirmed to said participant

37 A method according to claim 36 wherein said participant may elect to either continue with said wager or to abandon said wager

38 A method according to claim 37 wherein said wager is either abandoned by the participant or by said bookmaker.

39 A method according to claim 38 wherein said wager is abandoned when said wager exceeds a predetermined bookmaker wager limit or when predetermined bookmaker odds change.

40 A method according to claim 39 wherein in the event that the participant continues after confirmation of said wager, a participant ticket is logged to said host provider's web site.

41 A method according to claim 40 wherein in the event that the participant has a wager rejected due to a change in odds, said participant can elect to proceed with said wager at alternative odds whereupon said wager is confirmed to said participant.

42 A method according to claim 41 wherein said participant is non member of said provider.

43 A method according to claim 42 wherein said communications device is a phone, computer, WAP phone, cellular phone, digital receiver or GPRS internet access module.

44 A method of on line interactive wagering wherein at least one remote participant gains access to a virtual betting ring comprising a plurality of mutually independent bookmakers; the method comprising the steps of: a) effecting communication via a telephone between said at least one remote participant and a telephone service operator associated with an internet host provider website which is capable of accessing said virtual betting ring; b) inviting said participant to select an event on which betting information is required; c) inviting said participant to proceed with placing a wager and in the event that the participant elects not to proceed, terminating communication between said operator and said participant and in the event that the participant decides to proceed, inviting said participant to join said host provider to enable said participant to place a predetermined wager amount; d) in the event that said participant decides to join said provider as a new member, said participant provides access information via said operator to said host provider which stores login information to enable said provider to access said virtual betting ring, e) presenting said virtual betting ring to said new member and allowing new member to either log out of said system or to allow authentication of new member access criteria once said access criteria have been satisfied, allowing said remote participant to gain access to said virtual betting ring comprising said plurality of independent bookmakers by supplying user name and password

43 A method according to claim 42 wherein said provider verifies said user name and password before said participant can proceed to place a wager

44 A method according to claim 43, comprising the further step of requesting said participant to confirm the amount of said wager

45 A method according to claim 44 comprising the further step of checking the status of a participant^'s account

46 A method according to claim 45 wherein, in the event that the participant has insufficient funds, the participant has the option of replenishing said account

47 A method according to claim 46 wherein, in the event that the participant has sufficient funds, said wager is confirmed to said participant

48 A method according to claim 47 wherein said participant elects to either continue with said wager or to abandon said wager.

49 A method according to claim 48 wherein said wager is either abandoned by the participant or by said bookmaker

50 A method according to claim 49 wherein said wager is abandoned when said wager exceeds a predetermined bookmaker wager limit or when predetermined bookmaker odds change

51 A method according to claim 50 wherein in the event that the participant continues after confirmation of said wager, the participant's ticket is logged to said providers web site

52 A method according to claim 51 wherein in the event that the participant has a wager rejected due to a change in odds, said participant can elect to proceed with said wager at alternative odds whereupon bet is confirmed to said participant

53 A method according to claim 52 wherein said participant is initially a non member of said provider

54 A system according to any one of the forgoing claims wherein each said bookmaker may have direct access to a remote participant account for the purpose of deposits and withdrawals in the event of a win or loss

55 A method according to any one of claims 1-53 wherein a bookmaker may have diiect access to a remote participant account for the purpose of deposits and withdrawals in the event of a win or loss