Mathew Schwartz via Unsplash
Sports Entertainment Network (SEN) is acquiring the radio broadcasting assets of Racing and Sport Network (RSN), securing exclusive audio rights to Victorian horse, harness and greyhound racing.
The $3.25 million deal, payable over three years, will make SEN the sole audio broadcaster of racing in Victoria across all three codes.
This acquisition builds on SEN’s recent momentum in the category, including the five-year production partnership between SEN’s television arm, Rainmaker, and HRV, which will see 365 days of harness racing broadcast across 28 tracks on Sky Racing.
RSN assets will be folded into SEN’s broader audio and digital ecosystem, expanding the reach and quality of racing content across Victoria and beyond.
While programming changes are possible, SEN says it remains committed to delivering tailored content for racing fans via RSN.
The deal will also see SEN provide some initial RSN programming on simulcast to racing.com.
SEN CEO Craig Hutchison said the network is “all in on racing”.
“We’re passionate about delivering innovative, engaging coverage that resonates with both die-hard racing fans and casual listeners,” he said.
“This acquisition allows us to bring our unique approach to an even broader audience, and we’re excited about what’s ahead.
“RSN celebrates its 100th anniversary this year and is an institution in Melbourne’s radio, racing and sports history.
“We look forward to respecting and protecting that legacy while driving RSN forward into a new, exciting era.”
RSN director and Victorian Racing Industry (VRI) spokesman Aaron Morrison also welcomed the partnership.
“We welcome the opportunity to partner with SEN who see a strong future for the three codes of racing in Victoria and are investing to help us realise that,” he said.
“SEN stood out for the VRI as an on-going commercial partner and appropriate next owner of RSN because of their expertise, capabilities, distribution network and their desire to grow audiences.
“This long-term agreement preserves the rich heritage of RSN and the audio broadcast of VRI races that RSN listeners value, while providing opportunities for new and innovative content on the station.”
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