Sports Technology & Communications News from Around the World

With a focus on creating truly remarkable and unforgettable experiences for fans through cutting-edge technology, the Victoria Racing Club (VRC) is set to deploy the Cisco (News - Alert) Connected Stadium Wi-Fi Solution at Flemington racecourse.  VRC will be the first racing club to deploy Connected Sports Solutions, and this will make Flemington the most technology-advanced racecourse.

The technology will be operational before the 2013 Melbourne Cup Carnival, allowing race-goers to quickly and easily gain high-speed, concurrent Wi-Fi Internet access from their mobile and smartphones. Using their mobiles, fans will have the ability to access social media as well as many specially designed services, including the ability to place bets, purchase eatables and watch the races in high definition (HD) video.

"The Victoria Racing Club's implementation of Cisco Connected Sports Solution is a game changer that will see ubiquitous connectivity extended throughout Flemington, giving our visitors and patrons an enriched live racing experience unlike any other in the world", said VRC EGM Corporate, Finance and Strategic Initiatives, Simon Love.

With Cisco StadiumVision, race-goers with HD displays can enjoy interactive on-course experiences and video walls throughout the venue - leveraging its ability deliver digital content with multiple camera angles, race day information and special promotions. Using this customizable solution, VRC can provide their fans directional seat information upon their arrival, real-time traffic and weather updates and exclusive video content for its premium members. Sponsors and advertisers will also have new opportunities to engage patrons with dynamic and highly targeted content and promotions.

"I am very proud of our collaboration with the Victoria Racing Club to transform the venue and create a truly remarkable and unforgettable experience for members and patrons. Cisco is excited about the opportunity to contribute to the VRC's business objectives, while also developing leading multi-media solutions such as StadiumVision," said Richard Kitts, VP of Cisco Australia and New Zealand, in a statement.

This implementation will help VRC join the likes of Real Madrid C.F.'s Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, New Zealand's Eden Park, London's Wembley Stadium, the Dallas Cowboys' Stadium and numerous others that have adopted cutting-edge technology.