Shamed official quits top post

Racing Victoria chief executive Stephen Allanson has resigned in the wake of a damaging bet scandal.

He admitted to the board that he made five bets under a false name during the Spring Racing Carnival in 2007.

However, further investigations revealed another 37 bets made by Allanson under the same fraudulent title dating back to January last year.

Allanson said quitting had been 'a most difficult decision' to make.

"After spending a lifetime in thoroughbred racing administration, I have an appreciation of the critical importance of integrity in the conduct of racing," Allanson said on Thursday night.

"While the recent events concerning my actions in betting under a non be plume were not a breach of the rules, it is clear that the action was inappropriate and a serious mistake."

"For that, I am deeply sorry."

"As a consequence of my actions, I do not believe it is possible for me to effectively lead RVL."