Bookmaking and betting firms: What would Jeffrey Bernard have said?

Bookmaking and betting firms are receiving a negative reputation in recent times due to their marketing efforts. There is widespread concern about the negative effects of problem gambling and the potential for vulnerable individuals to fall into financial traps. However, the situation is not as dire as it seems. Racegoers, who are often stereotypically portrayed as hating bookmakers, are in fact grateful for their services.

Betting firms have stepped in to support struggling race operators who are struggling with high taxes, lack of publicity, intense competition, and poor public perception. It is time to reconsider the views of Jeffrey Bernard, a prominent British journalist from the late 20th century who was known for his love of horse racing and heavy drinking.

Bernard once shared his experience at Sandown Park where he lost a significant amount of money on all six races. He approached a bookmaker named John Bank for help and was pleasantly surprised by the generous support. Bernard went on to describe Victor Chandler Senior, a highly respected bookmaker who was known for his kindness and generosity.

Bernard once borrowed 20 quid from Chandler, a seemingly small amount for Chandler but a fortune for Bernard at the time. Chandler was always ready to help, even lending a taxi ride back to the train station. Bernard praised Chandler as a decent and honest man, and Chandler reciprocated by treating Bernard to champagne on Christmas and later delivering a large crate of Louis Roederer Crystal to Bernard's home.

Bernard's words remind us that bookmakers have played a crucial role in supporting the horse racing industry in South Africa, and their reputation should not be judged solely based on outdated stereotypes.