Champion Steps Down as Youbet Chief

Youbet.com Inc. Chairman and CEO Charles Champion will leave the online horse wagering firm in December. Champion steps down from leadership of the Woodland Hills-based company to pursue other opportunities. Youbet COO Gary Sproule has been named as interim CEO until a permanent replacement is found. Champion helmed Youbet during a turnaround in the company’s core business. The company’s wager processing through organic growth and acquisition advanced from $110 million to $750 million between 2002-06. Champion also helped launch innovating marketing programs such as Youbet Advantage and customer protection programs such as Players Trust.