Bodog Entrepreneur Gambles on Site, But Leaves Nothing to Chance!

Bodog Entrepreneur Gambles on Site, But Leaves Nothing to Chance!
By Al Spath

During a recent interview with Mr. Calvin Ayre, billionaire founder of the Bodog Entertainment Group, I found not only a brilliant CEO who has a firm handle on the future of his own enterprises, but one who wants very much to be on the "leading edge" when it comes to taking the lead on industry related growth ideas by networking business strategies.

Born 45 years ago in a small community in rural Canada, Calvin (as he prefers to be called) grew up admiring his father, who he proudly states: "was a great guy." It was Calvin's dad who planted the seed to become a risk taker and Calvin was expected to succeed in his future business endeavors. Not long after Calvin finished his first year at university, he went out and bought an old truck, loaded it with fruit and headed west across Canada, selling at roadsides and towns. When the contents of the truck were sold, Calvin had started and built his first successful business.

More than ten years ago, Calvin Ayre founded what he envisioned as a software company (The Bodog Entertainment Group). However he reversed his field soon after and sought the use of the Internet for sports betting, envisioning it to be a perfect fit. Branding has become very important in the world of business and Calvin Ayre has created an organization that stands at the top in his field and is responsible for industry innovations in marketing and technology.

Mr Ayre has assembled a premium lineup of industry leaders who will present premiere marketing strategies at the Bodog.com Marketing Conference in July (23-26), at the Wynn Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. The roster of specialists will enable participants to network more easily, making innovative strategies more mainstream. Included are topics on Search Engine Optimization; Web Metrics; Tactical Email Marketing; Demographics; to name just a few. Major television networks (including ABC, CNBC, and XTRA), TV entertainment programs, People Magazine and a host of other major media outlets are expected to cover this huge event.

When I asked Mr. Ayre what was the most important element of Bodog 's "Acquisition, Retention, and Loyalty" approach to his success, he simply replied: "What leg of a stool is the most important?" It was obvious to this reporter he felt none was more important than another, and in fact, without all three working together, the others would not work at all. When asked about the U.S. lawmakers introducing Bills to hinder online gambling, I sensed he was aware some posturing was occurring but not at all concerned at the call for congressional oversight, or the eventual topic and implementation of taxing Internet operations such as gambling sites. It would seem Mr. Ayre pinpoints his attention and resources to problems and solutions he can affect by gathering the best of the best and demonstrating leadership where there is a void.

Bodog and Mr. Ayre are also known for their generosity with philanthropic contributions made through the Calvin Ayre Foundation. Two particular events last year provided a lift for military families with loved ones overseas engaged in defending our great Country, and inner city youth within the Los Angeles area. The "Bodog Salutes the Troops" event in Hawaii was presented to thank the men and women of the United States Military Service serving their nation and are separated from their families on a regular basis to fulfill their military obligations. The Foundation, working with Dr. Jerry Buss, owner of the Los Angeles Lakers, also raised money to help with under funded inner-city programs in the Los Angeles metropolitan area.

What's next for Mr. Ayre? How about a ten-year television project in Costa Rica that includes Sports, Entertainment and Music? During the next decade Calvin would like to do things never done before and you know what? If anyone can, a man with his passion, his visions and his plans will make that happen! Featured on the March 2006 cover of "Forbes" magazine" early this year Calvin will undoubtedly find himself on the cover of "TV Guide" and many more publications before the decade ends.