Bren O'Brien

Bren O'Brien

Total 555 Posts
Bren is the founder and managing editor of The Straight.

Comment: Is this the end game for Peter V'landys, or just another twist in his racing tale?

Peter V‘landys’ future as Racing NSW chief executive may be under the spotlight, but those seeking to wedge him from the top job still have their work cut out, writes Bren O’Brien.

‘Deeply concerned’ - Major industry players call for Racing Minister to fast-track NSW review

Some of the most influential figures in the NSW industry have called for the state government to hasten a review into the Thoroughbred Racing Act

Run The Numbers – A family first for Nepotism

A combination of one of New Zealand’s greatest sirelines and Australia’s foremost damlines produced the Champagne Stakes winner, Nepotism. But as this week’s Run The Numbers explores, neither pedigree is renowned for the precocity to produce a two-year-old Group 1 winner.

Tabcorp uncertainty persists as NSW government drags heels on funding review

No news is not good news for Tabcorp, as it awaits a comprehensive review of its NSW licence agreement which has considerable knock-on implications for the broader racing industry.

Run The Numbers - The Victorian question

While the Australasian yearling sales market fared better than expected in 2025, data reveals investment from one of Australia’s biggest jurisdictions has plummeted by more than 17 per cent. Run The Numbers breaks down the market by buyer location.

Could global trade storms benefit the Australian thoroughbred industry?

The contrast between global economic uncertainty and the bullishness at the recent Australian Easter Yearling Sale makes sense in the context of the opportunities the crisis presents the Australian market, according to a leading global bloodstock agent.

Bookie breached and fined for failing to record customer phone calls

The Northern Territory Racing and Wagering Commission has fined bookmaker PlayUp more than $13,000 over two licence breaches.
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