Horse Racing Betting: Why So Fun?

India has a huge number of people who bet on horse races, and it’s easy to see why. Horse racing betting is different and exciting for both experienced players and people who have never done it before.

There are also many other reasons why the number of horse racing fans across the country is increasing. Let’s quickly go over them!

Excitement, Thrill, and Unpredictability

Admit it! Watching horses race down the track creates an adrenaline rush like no other. The reason is you never know what’s going to happen next.

This unpredictable nature of the horse races plays a pivotal role in adding an element of excitement that not only captivates fans but also enthralls the bettors by keeping them on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Easy Access and Availability

With the arrival of virtual platforms and mobile apps, betting on online horse racing events has become more convenient than ever. Fans, irrespective of their location and expertise, can participate from the comfort of their homes.

Simply put, the power of making predictions on horse races rests in the hands of horse racing fans. Thanks to this level of convenience, online horse betting has become a mutual thing for sports enthusiasts across India.

Potential for Profit:

Online horse racing betting presents an alluring prospect for individuals seeking a chance to leverage their knowledge of the sport and yield grand returns. While it involves some degree of risk, the potential for profit is one of the primary reasons why horse racing betting has captured the imagination of so many enthusiasts.

• Payouts and Odds: One of the most attractive aspects of horse racing betting is the potential for substantial payouts. Unlike some other forms of gambling, horse racing bookmakers are known to offer a diverse range of betting options, each with its odds and potential returns.

Note: Higher horse racing odds are associated with horses that are least expected to win. However, if they do, the payouts can be significantly rewarding.

Diverse Betting Market

Horse racing offers a wide array of betting options, catering to different risk appetites and strategies. If you’re a beginner, you can start with simple wagers like “winning bet” (guessing which horse wins), “place” (picking a horse to finish first or second), or “show” (picking a horse to finish in the top three).

For more experienced bettors, exotic bets are there to serve the day. This includes the likes of exacta, trifecta, “superfecta”, and more. We’ll talk about them and the others offered by the top-notch horse racing sites in the upcoming section.

Entertainment Value

Even if a horse racing bet does not result in a win, the overall experience offers entertainment value on its own. Being part of the overall atmosphere at the racetrack while watching the skill and athleticism of the horses as the jockeys’ strategies govern them is a feeling that has been cherished for ages. This is probably why many navigate to the horse racing section on online platforms just to have fun.

Betting Bonuses and Promotions

Needless to say, bonuses and promotions fuel the love for wagering to a great extent, and the same holds true for horse racing online. In today’s time, you’ll find several platforms that tend to offer attractive bonuses like free bets etc., for virtual horse racing events. These incentives encourage more people to try their luck and live the excitement.

Live Betting

The integration of technology is another factor that has significantly improved the overall betting experience. Consider the concept of horse racing live betting, for instance. The fact that users get to stream the races, check real-time betting odds, stay up-to-date, and make bets accordingly have gone a long way in encouraging them to participate.

Horse Racing Markets Offered by the Elite Horse Racing Bookmarkers

As already mentioned, the best horse racing betting sites of this generation typically offer vivid sports betting markets. This is done to ensure that the diverse preferences of bettors are met, which eventually helps enhance their overall experience.

However, you need to keep in mind that sports betting markets can vary. Yes, even among the best betting sites. To offer you the most comprehensive understanding, we’ve crafted a list of the most common horse racing betting options. Here take a look:

Win

The “Win” bet in horse racing is the simplest and most well-known form of wagering. It involves bettors selecting a single horse they believe will emerge as the winner of a specific race. If the chosen horse crosses the finish line in the first place, the bettor’s “Win” bet is successful, and they receive the payout.

Example: Say our bettor X predicts a horse name “Golden Gallop” to win the “Kentucky Derby.” Now before the event, X picks a horse racing betting site and wagers on Golden Gallop.

If Gallop crosses the finish line ahead of all the other horses, our bettor wins and vice versa.

Place

It is another popular type of horse racing bet where the bettor’s ultimate goal is to select a horse they think will finish in the top two or sometimes the top three. When and if the chosen horse finishes within the specified places, the bettor wins. 

Example: During the Belmont Stakes event, you bet on a horse named “Speedster” to finish in the top two. If that happens, you win a definite sum that depends on the betting odds.

Show

These types of horse racing bets are similar to the place market but with a little distinction. Here, as a bettor, you’ll need to choose a horse and predict if it will finish in the top three. Being comparatively less competitive, horse racing odds for this form of wagering is usually lower than the win or place markets.

Example: Being more conservative, you think “Speedster” has a good chance to finish in the top three of the Belmont Stakes event. Accordingly, you place bets named “Show” on “Speedster.” If the horse finishes first, second, or third, your bet wins.

Each-Way

This is a combination of win and place bets. A perfect fit for beginners where the ultimate goal is to place equal stakes on a horse and predict it to win and to place simultaneously.

Although complicated, Each Way is often considered a safe play, especially because of its working mechanism. When and if your picked horse wins, you grab both the win and place bets payout. However, the place bet pays even if it finishes in the top three.

Exacta

Moving on to the prop horse bets, we’ve got Exacta. In these horse racing markets, bettors predict the first two horses to finish in exact order. Yes, this is a challenging market, but remember, the payouts can be substantial. 

Note: Remember, only the best horse racing bookmaker, which offers the best horse racing odds, is known to let users bet on these options.

Example: Say you have been observing two horses, X and Y, in various horse races. They follow the trend of finishing exactly one after the other. Now during the Cheltenham Gold Cup, you decide to place Exacta bets on X and Y. If they finish, say 4th and 5th, your bet wins.

Trifecta

Seek more advanced options for your preferred horse race. Look no further than Trifecta. Bettors select the first three horses to finish in the exact order. These horse racing bet types are more difficult compared to the exacta, but the payouts are even higher.

Example: Feeling even more adventurous, you decide to place a “Trifecta” bet on the top three finishers. You predict “X” will win, “Y” will finish second, and another horse named “Y” will come in third. If the three horses finish in that exact order, you win the trifecta bet with heavy payouts.

Superfecta

Moving on to more advanced horse racing betting markets, we’ve got Superfecta. This requires bettors to pick the first four horses to finish in the correct order. More like the tougher version of Trifecta!

Offered by elite horse racing betting sites, it is again one of the most challenging markets that loads brilliant odds and momentous profits.

Quinella

Quinella bet involves picking wo horses that are expected to finish in the top two (regardless of the order). As long as the selected horses finish in the top two, the bet wins.

Example: During Thoroughbred racing, you find X horse winning followed by Y. Now you pick a horse betting site, head over to the respective horse racing section, and place bets on X and Y. Even if they finish in the top two in an alternate order (Y wins, and X takes the runner-up spot), your wager wins.

Daily Double

Want the best horse racing bet? Take a look at Daily Double. Here, bettors pick the winners of two consecutive races. Both predictions must be accurate for the bet to pay out.

Example: On one lucky day, you visit one of the best horse race betting sites and predict the winner of two consecutive races. If your guesses end up aligning with the real-life event, your bet wins.

Match Bets

Match bets in horse racing are a fascinating and competitive form of wagering where bettors pick which of two specific horses will finish ahead of the other in a particular race. This type of bet is offered by the best online betting sites in India and adds an element of excitement to the betting experience.

Example: Let’s say there’s a highly anticipated showdown between two top-class horses, “Thunderbolt” and “Lightning,” in an Irish horse racing event. These two horses have a history of intense competition and are known for their impressive speed and racing abilities.

Say, you’re intrigued by this rivalry and decide to explore the match bet market for the event. For that, you visit a sports betting platform, browse the horse racing betting options and find the head-to-head match bet option for “Thunderbolt” vs. “Lightning.”

After carefully analyzing their recent performances, past encounters, track conditions, and jockey pairings, you make an opinion—Thunderbolt will win, and Lightning will take the second spot.

Now if “Thunderbolt” manages to surge ahead, crossing the finish line just ahead of “Lightning.” your bet wins, and so do you.

There are several other types of wagers (e.g. ante post betting) offered by horse racing bookmakers worldwide. However, the ones mentioned above are considered the most popular ones.

Popular Horse Racing Events to Bet On

While the vividity of online horse racing betting options/markets is amazing, the availability of prestigious events taking place throughout the year acts as a boost to the betting experience. Following is the list of the top horse racing events worth paying attention to:

The Kentucky Derby

Held on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, the Kentucky Derby is one of the most famous horse racing derbies globally. It’s the first leg of the American Triple Crown and showcases some of the best three-year-old thoroughbreds in the United States.

Indian Derby

The Indian Derby is one of the most prestigious horse racing events in India and is held annually at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse in Mumbai. It features top-class thoroughbreds from across the country competing in a 2,400-meter race. The Indian Derby attracts a large audience and is a significant highlight of the Indian horse racing calendar.

The Preakness Stakes

Taking place two weeks after the Kentucky Derby at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland, the Preakness Stakes is the second leg of the Triple Crown. Bettors eagerly anticipate this race to see if the Kentucky Derby winner can continue their quest for the elusive Triple Crown.

The Belmont Stakes

The Belmont Stakes, held three weeks after the Preakness Stakes at Belmont Park in Elmont, New York, is the final leg of the American Triple Crown. It’s a grueling 1.5-mile race known as the “Test of the Champion,” and bettors closely follow the action to see if a Triple Crown winner will be crowned.

The Dubai World Cup

Taking place at the Meydan Racecourse in Dubai, the Dubai World Cup is one of the world’s richest horse races. It attracts top-class horses from around the globe and offers a spectacular betting experience.

The Melbourne Cup

Held at the Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne, Australia, on the first Tuesday in November, the Melbourne Cup is known as “the race that stops the nation.” It’s a prestigious event with a rich history, drawing massive attention from both racing fans and casual bettors alike.

The Royal Ascot

This iconic British racing event takes place at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire, England. Known for its tradition and royal attendance, the Royal Ascot offers top-quality racing and numerous betting opportunities.

Queen Mother Champion Chase

It is another prestigious and thrilling horse racing tournament in the United Kingdom. The Champion Chase is a Grade 1 National Hunt race and is part of the Cheltenham Festival.

The Grand National

Held at Aintree Racecourse near Liverpool, England, the Grand National is one of the most challenging steeplechase races globally. With its unique obstacles and a massive field of runners, this race captures the attention of bettors worldwide.

The Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe

Taking place at Longchamp Racecourse in Paris, France, the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe is Europe’s most prestigious horse racing event for middle-distance thoroughbreds. It attracts top contenders from around the world.

The Japan Cup

Held at the Tokyo Racecourse in Japan, the Japan Cup is one of the country’s most significant horse racing events. It attracts international competitors and offers a thrilling betting experience.

The Hong Kong International Races

Taking place at the Sha Tin Racecourse in Hong Kong, the Hong Kong International Races feature top-class thoroughbreds from around the world competing in various prestigious races on a single race day.

These are the major horse racing events to wager on. Many online horse betting sites do offer additional derbies to cater to punters of specific regions.

How to Pick the Best Horse Racing Betting Sites in 2023 

Online horse racing is on the verge of booming, and that is why many betting sites are emerging each day, claiming to be the best. But sadly, only a few have the features to be even counted among the promising options.

Wonder how to find whether horse racing betting sites you’re willing to use are worthy or not? Consider the following factors that actually decide that:

Licensing and Regulation: Check if the betting site is licensed and regulated by a reputable gambling authority.

Reputation and Reviews: Research the site’s reputation by reading customer reviews and feedback from other bettors.

Security Measures: Ensure that the horse racing betting site uses secure encryption technology to protect your personal and financial information.

Range of Betting Options: A good horse race betting site should offer a wide range of betting options. Consider that before giving away your trust and time.

Competitive Odds: Compare the odds offered by the horse race betting site with other reputable bookmakers. This way, you can ensure you’re working with the best.

Payment Options: Want the most financially seamless India horse racing betting site? Check the available modes for deposits and withdrawals.

Customer Support: A reliable, trustworthy horse race betting site will always boast excellent customer support. The one that features multiple contact channels to resolve user queries.

Mobile Compatibility: The modern-day best is always the one that serves convenience with ease. Simply put, a horse race betting site that deserves your attention should offer an intuitive app for on-the-go mobile betting.

Bonuses and Promotions: The availability of bonuses make or break a horse race betting site. Pick the ones that offer attractive promotions. But be double sure that the T&Cs are fair and transparent.

Quick Tip: Read your preferred horse race betting site’s terms and conditions to understand the rules, policies, and any potential fees associated with betting.

Best Horse Racing Promotions To Look After

Before you pick a platform and bet online, keep an eye out for various offers that are meant to enhance your horse racing betting experience and potentially increase the overall winnings. Some of the most enticing promotions offered by the best horse racing betting sites include:

Welcome Bonus

A welcome bonus is offered to new customers when they sign up with a betting site. It often includes a match deposit bonus, where the bookmaker matches a percentage of the initial deposit, providing additional betting funds. Betting on horse racing becomes so much more efficient for newbies when they have a welcome bonus to relish.

Free Bets

Free bets are a popular promotion that allows bettors to place a wager without risking their own money. Horse racing sites that offer this bounty cover the stake, and if the bet wins, the bettor receives the winnings, excluding the initial stake.

Boosted Odds

Boosted odds promotions offer enhanced horse racing odds for specific events. These are usually exclusive to top-level racing betting sites where the bookmaker may offer better odds on a favorite or increase the payout for a particular horse. In either case, it emerges as an opportunity for higher returns.

Money-Back Specials

With money-back specials, sports betting becomes a profitable venture. When it’s activated, the bookmaker refunds the bettor’s lost stake as a free bet or cash. This promotion provides a safety net for bettors, reducing potential losses.

Best Odds Guaranteed

The best Odds Guaranteed by any horse racing betting site ensure that bettors receive the best odds available for their selected horse. If the starting price (SP) is higher than the odds when the bet was placed, the bookmaker pays out at the higher odds if the horse emerges as the winner. That’s great for anyone wagering on a horse race.

Loyalty Programs

Some horse racing betting sites in India offer loyalty programs or reward schemes for regular bettors. These programs may include free bets, cashback offers, or special promotions exclusive to loyal customers.

Horse Racing Betting Strategy: Tips to Master Online Betting On Horse Racing Events

Placing accurate horse racing bets is an art that is pretty challenging to master. But not anymore! We’re here with the most effective set of horse racing betting tips that will help you make the most precise predictions.

Research and Analysis

Before betting on horse racing, conduct thorough research. This can include studies on the participating horses, jockeys, analyzing the past performances and monitoring relevant statistics. Doing so, you’ll be able to make informed betting decisions that are more likely to yield positive results.

No matter which horse race betting app you choose, the above mentioned tips will ensure your assumptions end on a profitable note.

Track Conditions

Take into account the track conditions, as some horses perform better on certain surfaces (e.g., firm, soft, or all-weather tracks).

Understand the Vivid Betting Options

As discussed, betting on horse racing online emerges with a lot of options. While it’s great overall, sometimes the vividness can lead to challenges. That said, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with various betting options.

For better understanding, you can delve some time into learning how each market works. Then after, you can pick the one that suits you.

Start Small and Set a Budget

For a beginner, horse races can be financially emotional. It is always good to start with small wagers and pile on that as you gain experience and confidence. Even better, set a budget and stick to it. Remember, chasing losses is never a good idea!

Watch Live Races

While betting on horse races, it is better to prefer watching the event live. By doing so, you get to observe the horses’ performances and make more informed bets accordingly.

There are several betting sites that offer the live streaming feature. Leverage that to the full potential!

Value Betting

Look for a winning horse with odds that offer value compared to the others. By value betting, you’re looking at a strategy that involves identifying horses whose chances of winning are higher than what the odds imply. This approach can lead to more profitable betting in the long run.