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I’m sure most readers have heard the name Andrew Black?
It wasn’t until Betfair, the first betting exchange, that I realised his connection with the gambling industry. Also, I didn’t realise he started as a professional gambler.
Born in 1963, Black would go on to transform the gambling industry.
Like many gamblers, he studied mathematics. However, the draw of the punt was too much and he dropped out Exeter University before completing his degree. He loved the challenge of gambling and making his betting pay and he was sure his analytical mind would do just that. There was something fascianting about games of risk, using skill and probability to out think a layer. However, gambling’s highs and lows were something of a baptism of fire but the experiences would fuel his determination for a groundbreaking platform.
The year 2000 was a time I remember well.
The first betting exchange where punters could be both bettor and layer. PR campaigns poked fun at the bookmaking industry saying it would be the death the traditional bookie who had things their way for much too long. Betfair would end up on the stock exchange and make Andrew Black and his co-founder Edward Wray wealthy men. He proved the point there are many ways you can make money gambling.
Betfair was soon established as a global success and punters loved it. I can remember opening my account in those early years and never looked back. Black was hailed as a hero by many punters and an influential figure within the betting industry. This simple platform empowered gamblers and changed the landscape of the gambling history.
In ways, this was the dream for Black whose love of gambling and horse racing led to his partnership with Michael Owen, former England striker.
Manor House Stables in Cheshire has become well-known and the partnership of Owen and Black has been fruitful. Punters have fond memories of the ill-fated Brown Panther who won at the highest level. Trained by Tom Dascombe, he became a star on the track, clinching major victories, including the 2014 Irish St. Leger.
In later years, Hugo Palmer would take control of the training side of business.
Andrew Black’s knowledge and insight of gambling helped him not only achieve his goals of successful punter but ultimately co-founder of a billion-pound business. His association with Michael Owen combined his love of business and joy of horse racing.
It’s a reminder of what is possible with vision and the willingness to follow your dreams.
