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The World Tote Association (WoTA) announces election of a new Board; welcomes new members for 2025-26
10th September 2024 – At the WoTA General meeting, hosted at the recent Asian Racing Conference in Sapporo, Japan, Board members worked collaboratively to establish a dynamic agenda for the organization, focused on multiple key objectives:
- Creating stronger national and global betting pools, especially through commingling, to support the respective horseracing industries
- Expanding pari-mutuel pool betting through additional markets and sporting events content for the additional collective benefit of WoTA operators
- Addressing the challenges of illegal wagering
- Working collectively on diversity and inclusion to further growth within the pool betting sector
Furthermore, WoTA members have elected the new Board who will drive the Association’s activities for the coming two years.
Fundi Sithebe, CEO of 4Racing in South Africa, and Keith Johnson, President of 1/ST TECHNOLOGY group/AmTote have accepted nominations to co-chair the Association. Riko Luiking, General Manager of German Tote, has likewise accepted the role of Treasurer.
Sithebe and Johnson take over from Alex Frost, CEO of the UK Tote Group, and Hans Lord Skarploth, CEO of ATG in Sweden, who have successfully co-chaired the Association since October 2022. During their tenure as Co-Chairs, the board initiated further commingling between members and a new sport pool project.
On taking over as Co-Chairs, Fundi Sithebe and Keith Johnson said: “We are delighted to be taking over as Co-Chairs of the World Tote Association. Over the last five years WoTA has made significant progress in developing the relationship between members and increasing understanding of the role pool betting plays in supporting horseracing around the globe. We thank Alex and Hasse for their excellent stewardship, and the entire WoTA Board for their efforts, and we look forward to working with all stakeholders to further our collective ambitions for the good of horseracing and society as a whole.”
The new WoTA Board will focus on the stated key objectives to ensure WoTA progresses its overall aim to see the growth of pool betting and make an increased contribution to horseracing and has a positive relationship with customers, governments, regulators and society.
WoTA is also proud to welcome the Jockey Club of Turkey and Zeturf Group as full members of the Association.
Members of the WoTA Board for 2025-26:
- Keith Johnson – 1/ST TECHNOLOGY / AmTote (Co-Chair)
- Fundi Sithebe – 4Racing (Co-Chair)
- Alex Frost – UK Tote Group
- Hans Lord Skarplöth – ATG
- Paul Cross – Tabcorp
- Michael Fitzsimons – Hong Kong Jockey Club
- Driss Belghazi – Sorec
- Adrien Billon – Carrus Group
- Andreas Reimblad – Veikkaus
- Simon Leong – Singapore Pools
- Riko Luiking – German Tote (Treasurer)
- Andrew Archibald – United Tote
Biography of the WoTA Co-Chairs for 2025-26:
Fundi Sithebe, Chief Executive Officer of 4Racing
Fundi Sithebe was appointed as the first Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of 4Racing PTY on 1 June 2021. 4Racing is the largest of the three horseracing operators within South Africa, and the company is responsible for horseracing operations, totalisator betting and broadcast operations of horseracing. The business has the largest sports pool offering in South Africa, licensed by the provincial gambling boards. A large part of her responsibilities is to ensure a successful turnaround, stabilising and the growth and sustainability of the horse racing business whilst managing the day-to-day operations, transformation and modernisation of the various business units.
Fundi was previously the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) responsible for daily operations on both aeronautic and non-aeronautic operations.
One of her biggest passions is the inclusivity and growth of female representation in the industries she serves in. She was previously a member of a few non-profit initiatives within the aviation industry (namely, Southern African Women in Aviation and Aerospace (SAWIA), Women in Aviation (W&A) as well as chairperson of Akani Aviation Leadership Initiative South Africa) that aimed to ensure a larger and a sustainable base of females in the aviation industry, and ensuring greater gender representation in the horseracing industry is an important objective for her.
Keith Johnson, President of 1/ST TECHNOLOGY group/AmTote
Keith joined the industry via AmTote in 1989 having just earned a BSBA degree from Auburn University. Embracing the racing & wagering industry that his family had decades of roots in, Keith progressed within AmTote from its operational ground up, gaining extensive industry knowledge and experience within multiple departmental positions including field operations management, hub operations management, regional operations management, sales, and executive leadership positions, ultimately being promoted to President of AmTote in 2016. In 2024, Keith was promoted to President of the broader 1/ST TECHNOLOGY group, which is inclusive of AmTote, PariMAX, Xpressbet, 1/ST BET, and BetMIX business units.
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Fun in Your Pocket: How Easy It Has Become to Access Slot Games
In recent years, the world of gaming has undergone a significant transformation, making entertainment more accessible than ever before. One of the most remarkable developments in this regard is the ease with which players can now access Slots Online. What was once an activity confined to physical casinos is now available at your fingertips, providing endless fun and excitement anywhere, anytime. This article explores how technology has revolutionized the accessibility of slot games and what it means for the modern player.
The Rise of Mobile Gaming
The advent of smartphones has been a game-changer in the world of online gaming. With the power of a computer in your pocket, mobile devices have made it possible for players to enjoy their favorite games on the go. Slots Online are no exception. Game developers have responded to this trend by optimizing slot games for mobile platforms, ensuring that the experience on a smartphone or tablet is just as immersive and enjoyable as on a desktop computer.
Mobile apps dedicated to slots online are now widely available, offering a seamless gaming experience with high-quality graphics, smooth gameplay, and intuitive interfaces. Whether you are waiting for a bus, on your lunch break, or relaxing at home, the ability to spin the reels is literally at your fingertips.
Instant Access to a Variety of Games
One of the greatest advantages of playing Slots Online is the sheer variety of games available. Online platforms host hundreds, if not thousands, of different slot games, each with its own unique theme, features, and payout structures. From classic fruit machines to modern video slots with complex bonus rounds, the options are virtually endless.
In a traditional casino, you might be limited by the number of machines available on the floor. However, with Slots Online, there are no such limitations. You can easily switch between games, try out new ones, and find the perfect slot that suits your preferences without ever leaving your home. This vast selection is accessible with just a few taps on your screen, making it easier than ever to explore and enjoy a wide range of slot games.
User-Friendly Interfaces and Enhanced Gameplay
As slots online have become more accessible, game developers have also focused on creating user-friendly interfaces that cater to both novice and experienced players. The simplicity of the controls, combined with clear instructions and helpful tutorials, ensures that anyone can start playing with ease.
Furthermore, technological advancements have enhanced the gameplay experience. High-definition graphics, engaging sound effects, and interactive features like bonus rounds and free spins make playing Slots Online not only convenient but also highly entertaining. These innovations have bridged the gap between traditional slot machines and their digital counterparts, offering an experience that is both familiar and new.
Safe and Secure Gaming Environment
The ease of accessing slots online has been complemented by the development of secure gaming environments. Reputable online casinos use advanced encryption technologies to protect players’ personal and financial information, ensuring that they can enjoy their favorite games with peace of mind.
Moreover, the availability of responsible gaming tools allows players to set limits on their spending and playing time, promoting a healthy and balanced approach to gaming. This combination of accessibility and security has made Slots Online a popular choice for both casual players and serious enthusiasts.
The accessibility of slots online has revolutionized the way people engage with slot games. With the ability to play from anywhere, at any time, on a wide variety of devices, the fun of spinning the reels is no longer confined to the casino floor. The vast selection of games, user-friendly interfaces, and enhanced gameplay have made it easier than ever to enjoy this form of entertainment. As technology continues to advance, the future of slots online promises even more exciting developments, bringing fun and excitement straight to your pocket.
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Atlaslive and Legitimuz Team Up to Boost Registration and Compliance for iGaming Operators in Brazil
Atlaslive, a leading B2B software provider in the global iGaming industry, announced a new partnership with Legitimuz, Brazil’s premier identity verification and facial recognition provider. This strategic collaboration aims to streamline Know Your Customer (KYC) processes, boosting player registration and ensuring top-tier compliance across the Brazilian iGaming market.
With a strong presence in the LATAM region, Atlaslive continues to enhance its offering to iGaming operators, helping them scale their platforms efficiently while maintaining the highest standards of security and regulatory compliance. By integrating Legitimuz’s cutting-edge technology, Atlaslive will enable its partners to register up to 30% more bettors through faster and more reliable KYC solutions.
The partnership will combine Atlaslive’s dynamic iGaming Platform with Legitimuz’s expertise in automated document analysis, 3D facial recognition, and instant approvals — all delivered in less than 30 seconds. This joint effort will enhance user onboarding, improve data security, and prevent fraud without sacrificing conversion rates.
CEO of Atlaslive, Maxim Slobodyanuk, said: “This collaboration aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing scalable, secure, and innovative solutions to the iGaming industry. With the Brazilian market poised for growth, ensuring seamless and compliant registration processes is critical. Together with Legitimuz, we will support operators in increasing registrations, reducing fraud, and adhering to local regulations, all while improving the user experience.”
CEO of Legitimuz, Kayky Janiszewski, commented: “Our technology is designed to increase conversions while maintaining the highest level of security and compliance. By integrating with Atlaslive’s powerful platform, we’re enabling operators to scale their businesses efficiently and confidently in Brazil. Our KYC solution, with its automated document analysis, 3D facial recognition, and instant approval, ensures that players can be verified quickly and securely, driving growth and trust in the process.”
This partnership further solidifies Atlaslive’s position as a trusted and innovative provider in the Latin American iGaming market, supporting operators in scaling their platforms with confidence. As the demand for reliable and fast KYC grows, this integration will enable operators to meet the expectations of both regulators and players.
eSports
DATA.BET hosts CS2 tournament at SBC Summit
DATA.BET, a premium esports betting solution provider, invites all exhibition attendees to the DATA.BEAT tournament. The event will occur at the Feira Internacional de Lisboa, at stand D160.
Visitors will have the opportunity to participate in a live CS2 competition featuring Christopher “GeT_RiGhT” Alesund, one of the most iconic figures in Counter-Strike history. A four-time top-ranked player, GeT_RiGhT dominated the global scene, being named the best player in the world in 2013 and 2014.
Qualification matches will be conducted on September 24 and September 25 with the finale on September 25. Registered players will compete for the highest scores, and three finalists will go head-to-head with the pro and win a Steam Deck. Everyone is welcome to watch the game, enjoying drinks from an open bar.
“At DATA.BET, passion for esports is in our DNA. We want to push the boundaries of gaming culture and bring esports closer to the masses,” said Natalie Loshatynska, Head of PR & Marketing at DATA.BET. “Hosting a CS2 tournament at SBC Summit is a perfect way for us to engage with the community and showcase that Counter-Strike is more than just a game – it’s a cultural phenomenon. And having an icon like GeT_RiGhT on board makes this experience even more memorable.”
Former pro player Christopher Alesund added, “It’s a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with fans and be a part of the growing esports culture that continues to evolve. I’m excited to see the level of talent from the community at this event!”
For those who only want to remember old times, DATA.BET will open its stand on September 26 for an open-play experience. Visitors can enjoy hands-on time with CS2, where they can play alongside fellow attendees.
Are you attending the SBC Summit? Register for the event here and get a chance to face GeT_RiGhT. The number of participants is limited.
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