Generally speaking, a horse race consists of two or more horses ridden by jockeys to compete over a set distance. However, there are many different types of horse races. There are endurance races, pari-mutuel races, and specialty races.
The Kentucky Derby
Almost a century after its inception, the Kentucky Derby is considered one of the most popular sporting events in the world. Held on the first Saturday in May, the Derby draws nearly 150,000 fans to Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. The race is followed by the Belmont Stakes and is considered the first leg of the Triple Crown.
While it’s considered one of the most popular horse races, it can also be a chaotic affair. In recent years, the race has been plagued by issues.
Specialty wagers
Taking advantage of specialty wagers on horse races is a great way to make some money. However, it requires some careful planning and value-finding.
There are many different types of specialty wagers on horse races. Some are the easiest to win, like an EXACTA, while others are more difficult, like a QUINELLA. It’s also important to know the right winning odds to avoid making a mistake.
An Exacta bet requires you to pick the finishers of two horses in the correct order. You can also pick the winner of one or more races.
Pari-mutuel
Several different forms of wagering exist in horse racing, but the pari-mutuel system is by far the most popular. In the system, all wagers go into a pool that is divided among winning bettors. The amount of money paid to winners is determined by a number of factors, including the amount of bets placed and the amount of money taken by the racetrack.
Most modern pari-mutuel systems are operated by racetracks. The system consists of a computerized system called a call center, located outside the gaming establishments. This system transmits instructions on how to wager on a race, including a list of all available bet types. Depending on the racetrack, there may also be self-serve kiosks.
Handicapping
Trying to handicap a horse race can be frustrating for the uninitiated. Several factors must be considered to make a successful pick. These factors include the horse’s ability on the track, the competition, and the jockey. Some of these factors are obvious, such as the horse’s ability to run the track, while others may be less obvious, such as his or her riding style.
The best way to handicap a horse race is to use a rating system. This system is designed to minimize track takeout, while still recognizing a horse’s winning performance in a previous race. The horse’s speed rating is used to calculate points, with the top three horses earning the most points.