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Calvin AyreEntrepreneur, founder of the entertainment project 'Bodog'
Date of Birth: 25.05.1961
Country:  Canada |
Content:
- Biography of Calvin Ayre
- The Birth of 'Bodog'
- Success and Recognition
- Challenges and Philanthropy
- Legal Issues and Current Involvement
Biography of Calvin Ayre
Calvin Ayre, a Canadian entrepreneur, is the founder of the entertainment project 'Bodog'. Born in Lloydminster, Saskatchewan, Canada, Ayre earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Waterloo in 1984. He later obtained a Master of Business Administration degree from City University in Seattle, Washington in 1989.
The Birth of 'Bodog'
In 1994, Ayre sold all his assets and used the $10,000 proceeds to assemble a team that launched the 'Bodog' project. Initially, the company focused on software development. However, it evolved into a website for online gaming and eventually became a global brand spanning various sectors of the entertainment industry.
Success and Recognition
'Bodog' gained increasing popularity, catapulting Ayre to fame. In 2006, Forbes Magazine published his biography, highlighting his achievements. He was also featured in the 'Hottest Bachelor' list by People Magazine and the 'Most Eligible Billionaire Bachelors' list by Star Magazine.
Challenges and Philanthropy
In 2009, Ayre announced that the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) forced him to cease operations in the United States. The Morris Mohawk Gaming Group (MMGG) took over the 'Bodog' brand. Ayre then focused his efforts on the Calvin Ayre Foundation, a charitable organization he established in 2005. The foundation, headquartered in London, supports various causes worldwide and Ayre serves as its chairman. Some of the organizations supported by the foundation include the 'Animal Avengers Organization' and the 'Cystic Fibrosis Foundation'.
Legal Issues and Current Involvement
In February 2012, Ayre faced charges related to the 'Bodog' project, concerning financial transactions in Switzerland, England, Malta, and Canada, as well as the hiring of advertisers and sales specialists to promote online gambling. However, Ayre's official spokesperson, Rebecca Liggero, stated that the accusations lacked any basis.
Currently, Ayre still holds a stake in 'BodogBrand.com,' which primarily focuses on licensing the 'Bodog' brand. In November 2009, Ayre launched CalvinAyre.com, a blog and tabloid specializing in online gaming. Despite legal challenges, Ayre remains active in various business ventures and continues to support charitable causes through the Calvin Ayre Foundation.
