The New York Racing Association has launched a mobile wagering application and and improved its simulcast presentation in an effort to bolster handle at Aqueduct, Belmont Park, and Saratoga Race Course.

Sona Mobile Holdings Corp. will provide NYRA a mobile wagering application, allowing on-track fans to wager using their wireless devices.

The three-year contract is exclusive with Sona, a provider of software solutions for gaming and entertainment. In the contract, there is an option for NYRA to renew for an additional year. The agreement and application are subject to necessary regulatory approvals.

“We selected Sona because they successfully demonstrated a thorough understanding of server-based gaming and wagering applications for mobile devices,” said John Ryan, NYRA senior vice president. “Through our new mobile wagering application, customers will be able to receive real-time racing and wagering information from cell phones, handhelds and PDAs. This technology will allow NYRA to offer our customers the ultimate in wagering privacy, accessibility, and convenience.”

Sona has partnered with The Jockey Club Technology Services Inc. to provide hosting, management services, and data communications for the NYRA mobile wagering contract. The new mobile wagering application for NYRA will be powered by Sona’s web and wireless platform, mWager.

NYRA also has enhanced its simulcast presentation with an upgraded broadcast operation. Guided by Shamrock Communications, NYRA rolled out two mobile television trucks in July. The trucks house a production facility, computer servers for storage and replay of video, and satellite transmission and encryption equipment.

The new simulcast presentation uses robotic high-definition cameras that capture additional views of live racing as well as a radio frequency mobile camera that can be used all over the grounds of NYRA's tracks, including paddocks and various starting gate positions.

On-screen graphics for simulcast races have been completely overhauled for a fresher, network quality look, with state-of-the art graphics machines capable of three-dimensional animation to enhance the simulcast presentation.

Hal Handel, NYRA's executive vice president and chief operating officer, said the improvements have resulted in lower personnel costs and a better product for simulcast viewers.

"The improvement in our video product was of vital importance given the amount of wagering that is done off site, from either homes or simulcast venues," Handel said.