Horse Racing Betting Rules

Created by Freddy K, Modified on Mon, 28 Oct at 3:31 PM by Mayu Y

1. General Rules

1.1 Bet Placement

Bets can be placed up to the post time of the race. Once the horses are off, all betting is closed.

1.2 Post Time

The scheduled start time of the race when horses arrive at the starting gate. Bets are accepted until the horses leave the gate.

1.3 Post Positions and Entry Numbers

Horses are identified by their entry numbers, which usually correspond to their post positions. Each horse's number is listed in the racing program.

1.4 Minimum Bet Amounts

The minimum bet amount varies by bet type and is specified on the betting platform.

1.5 Dead Heat Rules

In the event of a dead heat (tie), the payout will be divided by the number of horses involved in the dead heat.

2.1 Straight Bets

2.2 Across the Board

2.3 Exotic Bets

Exacta: Bet on two horses to finish first and second in exact order.
Quinella: Bet on two horses to finish first and second in any order.
Trifecta: Bet on three horses to finish first, second, and third in exact order.
Superfecta: Bet on four horses to finish first, second, third, and fourth in exact order.
Daily Double: Bet on the winners of two consecutive races.
Pick 3, Pick 4, Pick 5, Pick 6: Bet on the winners of three, four, five, or six consecutive races.

3.1 Flat Racing

Races on a level track without obstacles. These races are usually short distances ranging from 5 furlongs to 2 miles and are the most common type of horse racing.

3.2 Jump Racing (National Hunt)

Races that involve hurdles or fences. These races are typically longer than flat races and include hurdles, steeplechases, and point-to-point races.

3.3 Harness Racing

Races where horses trot or pace while pulling a driver in a sulky (a lightweight cart). This type of racing is popular in North America and Europe.

3.4 Endurance Racing

Long-distance races that can span 50 to 100 miles or more. These races test the stamina and endurance of both horse and rider.

3.5 Quarter Horse Racing

Short-distance races, typically around a quarter mile, where speed is the primary focus. These races are popular in the United States.

4.1 Matchup Bets

4.2 Futures Bets

Bet placed on the outcome of a future event, such as the winner of the Triple Crown races (Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, Belmont Stakes).

4.3 Propositional Bets

5.1 Full Track Odds

Payouts are based on the odds offered at the host track, subject to the sportsbook’s maximum payout limits.

5.2 Maximum Payout Limits

Payout limits vary by track category (A, B, C, D, E). For example, Category A tracks have a maximum payout of $15,000 per race, while Category E tracks have a maximum payout of $2,000 per race.

6.1 Scratches

If a horse is scratched (withdrawn) before the race, bets on that horse are refunded. In multi-race bets (Pick 3, Pick 4), scratched horses are usually replaced by the post-time favorite.

6.2 Refunds

Bets on horses scratched from the race will be refunded automatically. If part of a coupled entry is scratched and the other part runs, all bets stand unless the track rules otherwise.