Learning how to bet horses isn’t difficult. If you’re new to the game, it’s easy to learn about the different types of horse racing wagers that are available.

If you prefer to place your bets online, BetOnline makes it easy. Once you have logged in and entered our Racebook, select the track, then the race. You will see each horse entered in that race listed in numerical order according to program (saddlecloth) number. Scratched horses will be identified as such, and the system won’t allow a bet to be placed on a horse listed as a scratch. Then you select the type of wager you wish to make.

Next, select the horse (or horses) you wish to bet on, and finally, the amount you wish to risk. Press the button that says “Continue” and the “Wager Confirmation” page will appear with a summary of your wager, and the total risk of your wager.

Once you have reviewed your wager and are satisfied it is correct, you’ll click the “Confirm” button to place your wager. If you do not want to place this wager or would like to make changes, simply click the “Go Back” button.

If you would rather place your bets through our call center, call our Horse Racing Department toll-free at 1-800-991-2381. A wagering clerk will be available to take your call. The clerk will ask for your account number and password. After they have accessed your account, they will confirm your balance and ask how they can help.

Just give the track name, race number, amount and type of your wager, and the program (saddlecloth) number(s) of the horse(s) you wish to bet on. The clerk will read back to you the details of your wager, including the total risk of your wager. It is important that you listen carefully so your wager is placed correctly. Then you can move on to the next wager or conclude the call.

Placing exotic wagers (such as exactas, trifectas, superfectas, daily doubles, pick-3s, etc.) with multiple horses can be a bit intimidating if you’re not used to it. Rest assured that the wagering clerks are happy to assist you. Also, you should know that when the clerk enters your wager, the system will automatically calculate the total risk of your wager, which can be quite helpful when you’re constructing exotic bets such as trifecta and superfecta part wheels with many possible combinations.

Just a reminder—allow yourself enough time to place your wagers before the race goes off. Just like at the racetrack, it’s no fun when the race goes off before you’ve had a chance to make your play!