5 Horse Racing Commentators: Beacons of the Sport

Horse racing is a sport that captivates fans around the globe, blending speed, strategy, and pure excitement. While the horses steal the show on the track, the commentators who bring the action to life are just as essential in creating the thrill. In this article, we shine a spotlight on five horse racing commentators whose voices have become iconic, each leaving a lasting impact on the sport and its fans.

1) Tom Durkin: The Voice of New York Racing

For more than 40 years, Tom Durkin’s legendary voice was the soundtrack to racing in New York, particularly at Belmont Park and Saratoga Race Course. Durkin’s unique ability to balance enthusiasm with expert analysis made him a fan favorite, especially during major events like the Belmont Stakes and the Breeders' Cup Classic. His calls, full of energy and vivid imagery, brought the drama of the races to life. Durkin's deep love for the sport and his knack for capturing its emotional highs and lows have solidified his status as one of the most beloved voices in horse racing.

2) Jim McGrath: The Global Voice

Jim McGrath’s career has spanned continents, making his voice familiar to racing fans across the globe. As the BBC's lead racing commentator, McGrath has lent his expertise to some of the sport’s biggest events, including the Grand National, the Epsom Derby, and Royal Ascot. His smooth delivery and deep understanding of both flat and jumps racing have made him a trusted figure in the commentary world. Whether calling a classic race or breaking down a nail-biting finish, McGrath’s professionalism and insight have earned him the respect of fans worldwide.

3) Trevor Denman: The Californian Legend

For over three decades, Trevor Denman became the voice of West Coast racing, particularly at Santa Anita Park and Del Mar. His distinctive voice, paired with memorable catchphrases like "and away they go," endeared him to fans from coast to coast. Denman’s enthusiasm and infectious energy were key to the excitement of races, especially during the Breeders' Cup, where his vivid calls brought the stakes to life. His long tenure and genuine passion for the sport have made him a California icon and a beloved figure in the racing community.

4) Clare Balding: Breaking New Ground

In a male-dominated field, Clare Balding has emerged as a pioneering figure in horse racing commentary. With a background in both broadcasting and journalism, Balding has brought a fresh perspective to the sport, becoming one of the most respected voices in British racing. Her insightful commentary, coupled with her engaging interviews and deep passion for the stories behind the races, have made her a trailblazer. Beyond her expertise, Balding has worked tirelessly to promote diversity and inclusivity in horse racing, inspiring future generations of commentators to follow in her footsteps.

5) Larry Collmus: The Voice of the Triple Crown

Few commentators are as closely associated with the Triple Crown as Larry Collmus. As the official announcer for the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes, Collmus has become the voice of American horse racing’s most prestigious events. His ability to deliver every race with precision and clarity has made him an integral part of the Triple Crown experience. Collmus’s excitement and clarity during moments of high drama—especially when a horse is vying for the Triple Crown—have earned him a special place in the hearts of racing fans across the country.

Video Contains Fruity Language 

Conclusion: 

These five commentators have not only chronicled the highs and lows of the racetrack but have also become essential voices in the fabric of horse racing itself. Through their passion, expertise, and distinctive styles, they have enriched the experience for fans around the world, ensuring that their legacies will continue to inspire future generations of racing enthusiasts.

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Betting Like It Was 2525

Who can forget Zager and Evans classic - In The Year 2525. 

Imagine a world where betting is woven into the very fabric of daily life, where futuristic technology and imagination merge to create thrilling new forms of gambling. In 2525, betting has evolved far beyond today’s digital sportsbooks and casino apps, expanding to realms we could only dream of. Here's what betting might look like in the distant future:

Betting on Reality… and Beyond:

In 2525, the scope of betting has expanded to dimensions both real and virtual. With technology that seamlessly integrates virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence (AI), people can now bet on simulations that are indistinguishable from reality. Entire virtual sports leagues and even battle arenas can be created, where AI-driven athletes and combatants mimic the physical limitations, strategies, and emotions of real human beings. Bets are placed on every aspect of these simulations—who scores the first goal, who makes a comeback, and who wins the final round. For the discerning bettor, these simulations offer the thrill of a lifetime, as the outcomes are unpredictable yet entirely plausible.

Not stopping there, betting on cosmic events is the new frontier. As humanity has ventured into space, we now have betting markets on asteroid races, meteorite strikes, and interstellar exploration missions. Wagers on how long a spaceship will take to reach a distant planet, whether alien life will be discovered on an upcoming mission, or if a new cosmic phenomenon will be spotted within a certain timeframe keep bettors engaged on a truly universal scale.

Predictive AI and “Instant Insight” Betting:

Gone are the days when people waited for sports analysts to offer insight. In 2525, predictive AI tools have revolutionized the gambling world, offering “Instant Insight” betting. Gamblers can access real-time data projections on everything from a fighter's pulse rate to the probability of a last-minute upset in a virtual soccer match. This AI is a double-edged sword; bettors can quickly analyze odds and place “smart bets,” yet a new breed of betting has emerged, where gamblers bet against AI predictions for larger payouts. Outwitting AI has become a badge of honor, separating casual gamblers from the elite few who can beat the machine.

Betting with Sensory Stimulation: The “Experience Wager”

By 2525, betting has also become a multi-sensory experience. High-stakes gamblers are invited to immersive betting lounges, where sensory experiences simulate the excitement of a live event or setting. Imagine betting on a jungle adventure and actually feeling the humid air or hearing distant animal calls. These “Experience Wagers” immerse the bettor fully, increasing the stakes both financially and experientially. When a bet is placed on a digital hunt or virtual car race, the bettor feels each twist, turn, and thrill as if they were there. 

Betting Economies and Augmented Currencies:

The currency of betting has also undergone radical changes. Physical money and digital coins are out, replaced by experience credits, augmented realities, and social influence points. Bettors in 2525 can wager using “synth credits,” earned through immersive experiences or time spent in different virtual worlds. These credits go beyond monetary value; they can be traded for reputation, virtual real estate, or even access to exclusive content. Those who reach the top of betting leaderboards unlock social and financial perks that are recognized across virtual and physical realms.

Ethical Questions and AI Moderation:

Of course, with these futuristic advancements come new ethical questions. Betting in 2525 is strictly moderated by AI overseers, who are capable of detecting addictive tendencies, monitoring fairness, and assessing risk in real time. The balance between freedom and AI-imposed limits is contentious, as some argue that AI oversteps, while others appreciate the preventative measures.

In this futuristic world, betting is more than a pastime—it’s an evolved experience connecting people across real and imagined worlds. And as technology continues to advance, the potential for betting innovation may reach even beyond what we can envision in 2525.

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Betting Like It Was 1899: A Glimpse Into the Past

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The world of gambling has undergone vast transformations since the late 19th century, but stepping back to 1899 reveals a fascinating era where betting was entrenched in society, albeit with fewer regulations, more colorful characters, and very different methods compared to today. This era shaped the foundation of modern betting, offering us an opportunity to reflect on what it was like to place wagers over 120 years ago.

Horse Racing: The King of Betting:

In 1899, horse racing reigned supreme as the sport of choice for gamblers. Events like the Grand National and the Epsom Derby were among the most anticipated occasions of the year. Aristocrats and working-class punters alike flocked to racetracks to place their bets, often with bookmakers who operated directly at the course.

The absence of today’s vast data sets and real-time odds left gamblers relying heavily on intuition, insider knowledge, and tips from the stables. Newspaper columns dedicated to horse racing predictions flourished, providing information that might influence a wager. Yet, many bettors trusted their instincts, focusing on the trainer’s reputation, a jockey’s skill, and, of course, luck.

Bookmakers: The Men Who Ran the Show:

Unlike today's global, corporate-driven betting industry, 1899 was the era of the traditional bookmaker. Bookmakers were often larger-than-life figures who operated on a local level, offering odds on a range of events, from horse races to boxing matches. They accepted bets in person, typically at racetracks or other sporting venues, but some bookmakers would take bets in pubs or even on street corners.

Negotiation was common. Bettors could haggle over odds, and bookmakers frequently made judgment calls on the spot. If a punter won, they might leave the track with a pocket full of cash—or face the frustrating chase of tracking down a bookmaker who had disappeared after taking too many losses.

Wagering on Bare-Knuckle Boxing:

While horse racing dominated formal betting, 1899 also saw illegal and informal betting markets thrive. Bare-knuckle boxing, often held in secluded locations, was a popular draw for underground gamblers. Matches could last hours, and betting on individual rounds, fighters, or knockout predictions was rife. The lack of regulation and the physical brutality of these matches meant the stakes were high—not just for the fighters, but for those who gambled on them.

The Role of Technology:

In the 1890s, technology was beginning to play a more prominent role in betting. Telegraphs allowed for the fast transmission of race results, transforming how punters could access information. No longer did they have to wait for the next day's newspaper to find out if they had won; some bettors could receive updates shortly after the race ended. This early version of real-time updates would lay the groundwork for today’s live betting environments.

High-Stakes, High-Risks:

While gambling in 1899 might seem nostalgic, it was also fraught with risks. There was no regulation, and cheating was rampant. From race-fixing to dishonest bookmakers skipping town, the industry was far less transparent than today. Some of the most infamous gambling scandals originated in this period, involving jockeys, horse trainers, and gamblers conspiring to manipulate results. 

The Charm of Betting in 1899:

Despite the challenges, betting in 1899 had an undeniable charm. It was a time when a successful wager relied as much on personal connections and gut feelings as it did on research. The camaraderie at the racetrack or boxing match, the thrill of waiting for the next telegraph update, and the pursuit of a big win created a unique experience that still resonates today.

While we might enjoy the convenience of online platforms and regulated markets in the present, looking back at the simpler, wilder days of 1899 reminds us that at its core, betting has always been about risk, reward, and the excitement of the unknown.

Not by a Long Shot: A Season at a Hard-Luck Horse Track

It sounds too good to be true. 

American, Jesus Leonardo, walked into a betting shop without placing a bet and walked out with $9,500. 

The man from Midtown, Manhattan, makes a tidy profit from visiting bookmaker's and racetracks, sorting through betting slips thrown in the bins or scattered on the floor. He's known as a ''stooper'' and pockets cash by picking up tickets that others have thrown away as rubbish. 

In fact, over the years he estimates he has collected nearly half a million dollars. When you consider that uncashed winning tickets at bookmakers and racetracks in New York totalled more than $8.5 million over a two-year period there seems ample opportunity to take advantage of others misfortune. 

''It's difficult enough to find winners but these people have won and thrown their winning betting slip in the trash'' 

Jesus Leonardo has not even placed a bet.

He said: “It is literally found money,” he said on a recent night from his private winner’s circle. He spends more than 10 hours a day there, feeding thousands of discarded betting slips through a ticket scanner in a never-ending search for someone else’s lost treasure. 

“This has become my job, my life,” he said. “This is how I feed my family.”

“He’s a legend,” said Paul Pepad, 57, an out-of-work musician who lives in Manhattan. “Everyone knows that this is his turf, that all the tickets thrown out belong to him, period. It’s just been that way as long as I can remember.”

The fascinating endeavours of stoopers captured the interest of journalist T. D. Thornton who wrote a book in 2007: Not by a Long Shot: A Season at a Hard-Luck Horse Track.

He said: “Stoopers are the gleaners of the racetrack world. Stoopers have a relationship with horse tracks that goes back to the advent of parimutuel betting in the early 1930s. There is an unwritten code in racing that says stoopers are tolerated as long as they are not perceived as harassing or stalking customers.” “They are allowed to live on the fringes,” he added.

Leonardo says he makes a good living from stooping making from $100 - $300 a day and more than $45,000 ay year. 

He said: Last month, he cashed in a winning ticket from bets made on races at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, Calif., for $8,040. His largest purse came in 2006, when he received $9,500 from a Pick 4 wager (choosing the winners of four consecutive races) at Retama Park Race Track in Selma, Tex. It is all taxable income.

“I file my winnings with the I.R.S. every year,” Mr. Leonardo said in his thick Dominican accent.

Friend, Freddy Perguero, detailed:  

“Everybody in here loves Jesus,” he said. “When Jesus wins, we all eat, and we all drink. Jesus is a very generous man.” 

Once upon a wager on a race run at Aqueduct Racetrack in Queens, Mr. Leonardo, who lives in Wanaque, N.J., became a stooper by accident. In 1999, he walked into that same OTB parlor in Midtown and placed a bet. He watched the race, was sure he had lost and threw away his Pick 3 ticket. “But just as I was leaving, I looked up at the screen and realised an inquiry had been made,” he said, referring to a review of the race to check for possible rules infractions. “All of a sudden, the results changed and I actually won $900.”

He recalled the moment when trying to find his winning ticket almost in tears asking the manageress for help:   

“She said there was nothing she could do about it,” Mr. Leonardo said. “I was so upset, almost in tears. Finally, she said, ‘Look, if you want to take the garbage home with you and look for your ticket, go right ahead.’ ”

Amazingly, he couldn't find his winning $900 ticket but found two others worth almost $2000

“I couldn’t believe it,” said Mr. Leonardo, who had been supporting his family and his dream of writing songs by working odd jobs, including painting homes and cleaning windows. “I started thinking, there’s probably winning tickets thrown in the garbage every day.”

He decided it was a winning job and returned every day waiting for the betting shops to be placed at the curb and picking through hundreds of slips. 

“At first, my wife thought I was crazy, but then she realised I was finding a lot of money in winning tickets, sometimes $200 a day,” he said. “After a while, she didn’t think I was so crazy.”

He hasn't got any intention of stopping.

“Look here,” he said to Mr. Peguero after pulling a credit voucher from the machine for $6. “Another winner.”

Photo: Pixabay free for commercial use and no attribution but given  

The Best Casinos to Visit in the West End of London

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London’s West End is synonymous with glitz, glamour, and entertainment. Known for its theatres, shopping streets, and vibrant nightlife, the West End is also home to some of the most luxurious and exclusive casinos in the capital. Whether you’re a high roller or just looking to experience the thrill of gaming in an opulent setting, these top casinos in the West End are sure to impress. 

1. The Hippodrome Casino: 

Located in the heart of Leicester Square, The Hippodrome Casino is arguably the most iconic casino in London. Housed in a historic building that dates back to 1900, this casino offers a unique blend of history, luxury, and entertainment. The Hippodrome boasts three gaming floors, offering a wide range of games including roulette, blackjack, baccarat, and poker. In addition to the gaming tables, the casino also features an extensive selection of slot machines. The Hippodrome isn’t just about gambling; it’s a full entertainment complex with a top-notch restaurant, several bars, and a theatre hosting live performances. Whether you’re an experienced gambler or a first-time visitor, The Hippodrome Casino offers an unforgettable experience. 

2. Empire Casino: 

Situated just off Leicester Square, Empire Casino is another West End gem. Open 24/7, this casino caters to both casual gamers and high-stakes players. Empire Casino offers a wide range of gaming options, including numerous table games like blackjack, roulette, and poker, as well as a vast selection of slot machines. The casino’s Poker Room is a popular spot, hosting regular tournaments and cash games that attract both local and international players. One of the standout features of Empire Casino is its spacious, modern interior, which provides a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. The casino also has a stylish bar and a restaurant that serves a variety of dishes, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a night of gaming. 

3. The Palm Beach Casino: 

For those seeking a more exclusive experience, The Palm Beach Casino in Mayfair is a must-visit. Known for its elegant setting and high-end clientele, this casino offers a sophisticated gaming experience. The Palm Beach Casino features a variety of table games, including American roulette, blackjack, and punto banco, as well as electronic gaming terminals and slot machines. The casino’s VIP area is a particular highlight, offering private gaming rooms and personalized service for high rollers. The Palm Beach also boasts an impressive bar and restaurant, where you can enjoy fine dining and cocktails in a luxurious setting. If you’re looking for a night of elegance and exclusivity, The Palm Beach Casino is the place to be. 

4. Grosvenor Casino The Victoria: 

Known affectionately as “The Vic,” Grosvenor Casino The Victoria is one of London’s most established and respected casinos. Located on Edgware Road, just a short distance from the West End, The Vic is renowned for its excellent poker scene. The casino’s dedicated Poker Room hosts regular tournaments and cash games, attracting some of the best players in the city. In addition to poker, The Vic offers a wide range of table games and slot machines. The casino’s friendly atmosphere and professional staff make it a favorite among both regulars and newcomers. The venue also features a restaurant and bar, where you can enjoy a meal or a drink between games. 

5. The Ritz Club: 

For the ultimate in luxury and exclusivity, The Ritz Club is a legendary casino located in the basement of The Ritz Hotel in Piccadilly. This members-only casino is the epitome of elegance, offering a refined gaming experience in a stunning setting. The Ritz Club offers a selection of classic table games, including roulette, blackjack, baccarat, and poker, all played in opulent surroundings. The casino also provides a personalized service, ensuring that every guest feels like royalty. Dining at The Ritz Club is a gourmet experience, with a menu that rivals the finest restaurants in London. If you’re looking for a truly luxurious night out in the West End, The Ritz Club is unparalleled. 

Conclusion: 

London’s West End is home to some of the finest casinos in the city, each offering a unique blend of luxury, entertainment, and gaming excitement. Whether you’re drawn to the historic charm of The Hippodrome, the modern appeal of Empire Casino, or the exclusive allure of The Ritz Club, there’s a West End casino to suit every taste.

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5 Reasons Why Las Vegas Might Be a Poor Option for Gamblers

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Las Vegas, often hailed as the gambling capital of the world, draws millions of visitors annually with its promise of glitz, glamour, and endless opportunities to strike it rich. However, beneath the dazzling lights and ringing slot machines, there are several reasons why Las Vegas might not be the optimal destination for serious gamblers. Here are five key factors to consider:

High House Edge:

Las Vegas casinos are notorious for their high house edge, which refers to the mathematical advantage the casino holds over the player in any given game. While games like blackjack and poker offer some of the best odds for players, the majority of casino offerings heavily favor the house. Slot machines, for instance, often have a house edge upwards of 10% or more, making them a particularly unfavorable choice for gamblers looking to maximize their chances of winning. With such steep odds stacked against them, visitors to Las Vegas may find their bankrolls dwindling faster than expected.

Limited Variety of Games:

Despite its reputation as a gambling mecca, Las Vegas can be surprisingly limited in terms of game variety. While staple games like blackjack, roulette, and craps are widely available, niche or specialty games may be harder to come by. Furthermore, many casinos tend to offer similar selections, leading to a lack of diversity across different venues. For gamblers seeking unique or exotic gaming experiences, this lack of variety can make Las Vegas a less appealing destination compared to other gambling hubs around the world.

Intense Competition:

Las Vegas boasts a staggering number of casinos, with dozens of establishments vying for the attention and wallets of visitors. While competition can theoretically benefit consumers by driving down prices or improving service quality, in the realm of gambling, it often means casinos are more focused on maximizing profits than catering to the needs of players. This can translate to tighter slot machines, higher minimum bets, and fewer perks for gamblers. Additionally, the sheer volume of options can be overwhelming, making it difficult for players to discern which casinos offer the best value for their money.

Distractions and Temptations:

Las Vegas is synonymous with excess, offering visitors a dizzying array of entertainment options beyond gambling, including extravagant shows, world-class dining, and pulsating nightlife. While these attractions can enhance the overall experience for tourists, they can also serve as distractions for gamblers trying to stay focused on their bankrolls. It's all too easy to get swept up in the excitement of Las Vegas and lose sight of prudent gambling practices, leading to impulsive decision-making and unnecessary losses. For individuals with addictive tendencies or limited self-control, the constant allure of excess in Las Vegas can be particularly dangerous.

Lack of Value for Low-Rollers:

While Las Vegas caters to high-rollers and big spenders with luxurious accommodations, exclusive perks, and VIP treatment, the same cannot always be said for low-rollers or budget-conscious gamblers. Many casinos prioritize high-stakes players, relegating those with modest bankrolls to the margins. Comp programs, which reward players for their loyalty and spending, often favor big spenders, leaving low-rollers feeling overlooked or undervalued. For gamblers looking to stretch their dollars and maximize their enjoyment, Las Vegas may not offer the best bang for their buck.

In conclusion, while Las Vegas undoubtedly holds a special allure for many gamblers, it's important to recognize that it may not be the ideal destination for everyone. From high house edges and limited game variety to intense competition and distracting temptations, there are several factors that could make Las Vegas a poor option for serious gamblers. Ultimately, individuals should carefully consider their priorities and preferences before planning a trip to Sin City.

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Betting Like It Was 1966: A Golden Year for English Sport

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The year 1966 stands out in the annals of English sporting history, primarily for the unforgettable triumph of England’s football team in the FIFA World Cup. Yet, it wasn’t just football that thrilled the nation that year. From the green courts of Wimbledon to the emerald fairways of golf, 1966 witnessed a cascade of sporting victories that had bookies bustling with bets and the public celebrating in unison.

1. England's World Cup Glory On July 30, 1966, England’s national football team achieved a feat that has since become legendary. At Wembley Stadium, captained by Bobby Moore and managed by Alf Ramsey, England faced West Germany in a gripping World Cup final. The match is most famous for Geoff Hurst's hat-trick, a first in World Cup final history, and the controversial "Wembley Goal" that saw the ball bounce off the crossbar and over the line, according to the referee’s decision.

As the game ended 4-2 in extra time, it wasn’t just a victory on the pitch; it was a moment of national pride that solidified England's place in football history. For those who had bet on England to win the tournament, the victory was both a financial windfall and an emotional high. The odds had been stacked against a home victory, and the result sent waves through the betting world.

2. Wimbledon: Manuel Santana’s Victory In tennis, 1966 saw a remarkable upset at Wimbledon. Manuel Santana of Spain clinched the men’s singles title, defeating Dennis Ralston in the final. Though Santana wasn’t English, his victory had significant ramifications for British tennis enthusiasts and bettors. With a reputation for excelling on clay courts rather than grass, his success came as a surprise. Bettors who had the foresight to back Santana over more favored contenders reaped substantial rewards, proving once again the unpredictability and excitement of sports betting..... 

3. The Open Championship: Jack Nicklaus Reigns Golf aficionados witnessed a masterclass at Muirfield, where the legendary Jack Nicklaus won The Open Championship. Although Nicklaus was American, his victory had British implications. The Open attracted significant betting interest from the UK, and Nicklaus’ win, coupled with his sheer dominance on the course, paid off handsomely for those who placed their bets on him. His victory underscored the growing popularity of golf betting in England.

4. Rugby League: St. Helens Triumphs In rugby league, the Challenge Cup saw St. Helens achieve victory over Wigan in the final, held at Wembley. This intense local rivalry drew significant betting interest, with fans placing wagers on every possible outcome. St. Helens' 21-2 triumph over Wigan was not only a sporting highlight but also a lucrative event for those who backed them. The win solidified St. Helens’ status as a rugby league powerhouse and invigorated interest in the sport across England.

5. Cricket: England’s Ashes Victory 1966 was also a remarkable year for cricket, with England winning the Ashes series against Australia. Under the captaincy of M.J.K. Smith, England managed to retain the Ashes, drawing the series 1-1 but maintaining their grip on the coveted urn. The series was a rollercoaster for bettors, with fortunes swinging from match to match. England's ability to hold onto the Ashes bolstered national pride and added another layer of triumph to an already remarkable year.

Betting Buzz of 1966 The thrill of placing a bet in 1966 was a blend of anticipation, strategy, and sheer luck. Bookmakers of the era operated without the technological advancements seen today. Bets were placed in person, often at smoky betting shops or through informal pools. The fervor surrounding England’s World Cup victory, Santana's unexpected Wimbledon win, Nicklaus’ golfing prowess, St. Helens' rugby triumph, and England's cricket success collectively contributed to a betting year like no other.

As the crowds cheered and celebrated these victories, the excitement in betting shops was palpable. Whether punters had bet on a win, a player’s performance, or simply the final score, 1966 remains a benchmark year, fondly remembered by sports fans and bettors alike for its cascade of English sporting successes.

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