From Track to Text: How SMS Messaging Keeps Horse Racing Fans Informed

Oct 22, 2024

When it comes to marketing, SMS messages aren’t the first thing that comes to mind, right? Especially not in the era of the internet where we have so many different apps to reach new and existing customers.

However, there is something about SMS marketing that is truly unique that no other form of content has.

Speed, reach, and open rate. A message is considered successfully sent if the customer receives it and actually reads it. For example, it is better to send 10 emails with a 50% open rate, than send 100 emails with a 1% open rate.

Since we are on the subject of open rates, SMS messages somehow feel less spammy. In other words, people, when receive SMS messages, tend to open and read them, unlike spammy emails. That’s why the open rate for SMS is more than 90%, which no other form of communication has.

This means that SMS is perfect for reaching new customers, keeping fans informed, and updating them with the latest relevant information. That’s why so many horse racing organizations include SMS marketing and outreach to their new and existing customers.

But let’s dive deeper and learn more.

Why SMS In Horse Racing?

Horse racing is a fast sport, and requires a fast communication method. So, what are the contenders? 

Internet apps or email and SMS. However, SMS is a much faster and more reliable communication that reaches customers and has a significantly high open rate of above 90% in the first 15 minutes. This is something that email marketers can only dream about.

On top of that, your fans don’t need some fancy apps or complicated downloads. They just have to put in their number and done.

But how do horse racing organizations get the number? Well, most of the people who travel to such events purchase their tickets online. And when they buy tickets for a horse racing event, they have to put down their number.

This means that they are already fans of the sport, and you can continue to have SMS communication with them, whether it is about promoting new events or keeping them updated on everything that’s going on in the industry.

Horse racing is a data-oriented sport, and fans appreciate such things, especially if they love placing bets. For example, they can get the latest updates, race results, jockey changes, and much more.

If you have still not opted for SMS info at the Breeders’ Cup, click the link below to check the latest results: twinspires.com/breeders-cup/results/

How SMS Keeps Fans Connected

  1. Live Race Updates: In the heat of a race, waiting for updates is agonizing. Text alerts can deliver real-time results, odds, and even post-race analysis right to a fan’s phone.
  2. Track Announcements: From weather delays to new race entries, SMS keeps everyone in the loop. No need to scour the internet for breaking news—it’s already in your pocket.
  3. Exclusive Offers: Who doesn’t love a good deal? Racetracks and organizers are using SMS to share ticket promotions, exclusive betting offers, and behind-the-scenes content, enticing fans with insider perks​.

Real-Time Information, Without the Distractions

While social media requires constant scrolling and apps require downloads, SMS is a “push” communication—meaning fans get the info directly, without having to dig for it. 

It’s perfect for those moments when you’re already absorbed in the action and don’t want to be bombarded with non-essential content. After all, you’re here for the horses, not the memes.

Stats in a Flash

Let’s talk numbers. Imagine you’re on the edge of your seat, waiting to place a bet. Every second counts and SMS delivers the stats right when you need them—no delays, no need to refresh a page. 

For fans following a race, live updates on jockey performance, horse conditions, and track changes can make all the difference. With a 90% open rate for SMS campaigns, it’s clear that fans are engaged and ready for the action.

Personal Connection with Fans

Horse racing is more than a sport; it’s a community. SMS helps strengthen that bond by offering personalized messages, direct communication, and even interactive elements like contests or polls.

 For example, fans can text in to participate in “text-to-win” promotions or receive exclusive content that makes them feel like VIPs. This personal touch keeps fans coming back—because who doesn’t like a little special treatment now and then?

A Modern Approach to a Classic Sport

Although horse racing has been around for centuries, the way we interact with it has changed dramatically. The rise of mobile engagement strategies, especially SMS, has modernized the sport in ways we never saw coming. 

By delivering real-time updates, stats, and exclusive offers, texting has brought a new level of accessibility to fans. It’s like having a racetrack insider in your pocket, whispering the latest scoop.

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