by Frank Angst

Turf, surf, and wireless wagering.

Del Mar will contract with Sona Mobile Holdings Corp. to develop a wireless wagering and race information platform to be used for on-track betting at this year’s meeting, which begins on July 18.

The wireless wagering application will allow for secure wagers on personal PDAs, including Windows Mobile Smartphones and RIM BlackBerry devices.

"We are excited Sona Mobile has chosen to deploy their wireless wagering application at Del Mar this season," said Craig Fravel, executive vice president of the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. "Our hope is that this new technology, combined with other enhancements fans will see at Del Mar this summer, will make the 2007 season one of our most successful to date."

Users also will have the ability to access real-time Del Mar race information, scratches, account information, race results, and live video streaming. Past Del Mar race video also will be available along with handicapping information.

"Sona Mobile's alliance with DMTC extends the reach of our platform to one of the country's premier horse racing tracks," said Shawn Kreloff, chief executive officer of Sona Mobile Holdings. "This, combined with our ever-expanding footprint, allows for a well-rounded mobile offering to track enthusiasts.”

Frank Angst is senior writer of Thoroughbred Times