Betting on the horses has to be one of the most thrilling and exciting games about. Not only is it a great way to win some money, but betting on the horses is a sociable activity as you’ll get to meet new people with the same interests as you.
If you enjoy other gambling games, then you are already familiar with the world of betting and gambling. However, betting on the horses is quite different to betting on football or any other sport. So if you are new to horse racing then below are a few tips to help you out.
Types of wagers
Win
In order to collect your winnings your horse must finish first. There is a $2 minimum wager at most tracks.
Exacta
If you bet on two horses then they must come in first and second in the order you chose for you to win.
Exacta Box
This works the opposite way around – if you play two horses then they must come in first and second but in either order for you to collect.
Trifecta Box
You can collect winnings if you bet on three horses which finish first, second and third in any order. You’ll find that it is a $1 minimum wager at most tracks. Some tracks have started offering a $.50 minimum.
Types of races
Maiden Races – This is referring to a horse which has not won a race.
Claiming Races – Horses are entered for a specific claiming, or purchase, price, and thus a new owner can “claim” any horse in the race for that amount.
Handicap – In order to give each horse an equal chance of winning, they carry weights to compensate. Handicap races are much more common in Europe than in the United States.
Condition and Stake Races – This is where a horse carries weights depending on their age, sex and how many races they have won. Some races are even restricted to single sex or age runners, e.g. 3yo fillies only.
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