Rio Stars

What is Rio Stars?

The new Belmont is part of a major restructuring of the New York Racing Association’s operations, with Belmont replacing Aqueduct as the year-round home of downstate thoroughbred racing.

Aqueduct staged its final races June 28, ending a 132-year history at the Queens track. It remained open for simulcast wagering until September 7 before closing permanently.

The new Belmont is significantly different than the sprawling venue it replaced. The former 1.25 million-square-foot grandstand, which had become vastly oversized for the contemporary racing crowd, was demolished to make way for a much smaller, modern facility with a focus on hospitality and premium seating.

What is Rio Stars?

Vegas will lean heavily on younger players for the opening stretch of exhibition games, according to general manager Kelly McCrimmon.

That strategy opens the door for Trevor Connelly, Vegas’ 2024 first-round pick. Connelly entered training camp skating on the club’s third line, and after the departure of several depth players this offseason, the 20-year-old left winger has a clear path to earn a roster spot.

Off the ice, the Golden Knights secured captain Mark Stone with a two-year extension worth $9 million annually.

How to play Rio Stars

Minister of Environment and Tourism Dr Wynter Mmolotsi called for Botswana to establish a dedicated rehabilitation facility for people experiencing gambling harm. He also suggested that the country consider systems capable of identifying extended gambling sessions, betting patterns and other potential indicators of harmful play.

“In other countries, such systems detect the time taken, every bet placed, how is the game played and thus help to curb addiction,” Mmolotsi said.

Kgatleng Central MP Mpho Morolong also said gambling should be understood as entertainment rather than a route to financial security.