Racing and Sports (RAS) has moved quickly to appoint new leadership for its new Asia division, created via acquisition last week.

Ronnie Tay has been tasked with leading the Australian betting content firm’s Asian expansion as its new Head of Asia, with Hong Kong the starting point of its ambitions.

The new hire has been tasked with spearheading business development, regional growth and digital and data initiatives for RAS across Asia and especially in Hong Kong.

The autonomous city and region of China is a key market for horse racing in Asia, with the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) one of the oldest legal betting operators in the continent.

“It’s an exciting time to be part of Racing and Sports,” Tay said. “With its world class data and technology, the company is perfectly positioned to deliver innovative solutions and support the continued growth of racing and wagering in Asia.”

Founded in 1999, RAS is a technology and content provider for bookmakers, specialising in areas like managed trading services and online publication – the latter forming the basis for its Asia expansion.

The firm has been making various international moves lately, including various ones in the UK, one of the most established horse racing betting markets globally in its own right with the sport the second most bet on in the country after football.

A move into Hong Kong is a logical step for RAS when the HKJC’s significance, both as a local player but also as a member of the World Tote, is taken into account.

The creation of RAS Asia (RASA) last week was spearheaded by the takeover of six Hong Kong horse racing media outlets, including the widely read HDKN, WQ Booklet and Sun Racing.

Tay’s task is to see this foundation expanded as RAS eyes up new opportunities in Asia, with rumours around potential betting market launches in Japan and South Korea consistent in industry circles.

“The appointment of Ronnie marks an important step forward for RAS,” said the firm’s MD and CEO Stephen Crispe. “Ronnie’s leadership, industry knowledge and networks coupled with his regional expertise will strengthen our presence and drive growth across Asian markets.”