One of the most exciting horse racing events on the calendar is nearly here, as the Breeders’ Cup 2023 will be staged across the first weekend in November. Santa Anita will host the prestigious world championships this year, with some of the best equine stars from around the globe set to battle for their share of the prize money in California.
However, bettors will also be looking to win their share of cash during the two-day meeting this year, and examining the important betting markets available to wager on is a huge factor that should be taken into account. But, what are the most popular markets and what tactics should bettors follow to ensure that they stand the best chance of winning returns?
Win Betting
The most popular way to place a bet on the horse racing action at the Breeders’ Cup Classic is by betting on the win market. This does exactly what it says on the tin, as bettors will be looking to find the winner of the race that they are betting on. You can find more information on the Classic race here: https://www.twinspires.com/breeders-cup/classic
If the bettor successfully places their wager on the eventual winner, then they will receive the returns. However, if their selection finishes second or any other place except for first, then the stake is lost.
Place Betting
The Breeders’ Cup often attracts big fields, meaning that there is often value in siding with outsiders in the market, given that high-quality runners will be available at odds that are unusual.
Place betting could be the perfect opportunity to get value on the selections at higher odds, as bettors will be looking to place their stake on a runner that will finish in the first two places. If the selection is correct, then the payout will be awarded. There is also the opportunity to place a show bet, which enables the wager to also cover the runner finishing third.
Exacta/Trifecta
Exotics are a popular way to play the horse racing, with expert gamblers often placing a number of wagers covering all possible outcomes for a race. To land an Exacta, bettors will be looking to correctly predict the runners that finish in exactly first and second, while to land the Exacta, bettors must also correctly predict the runner that will finish in third.
There are a number of different possible ways to make Exotics bets, as wagers can also include a horse to key in a certain position, meaning that the bet will likely need the possible selections to finish in second and third.
Exacta and Trifecta boxes are among the most common, as bettors can include as many selections as they wish, and a payout will be determined based on the odds of the selections in the finishing order.
Multiple Betting
Multiple betting is extremely popular during the Breeders’ Cup, as bettors will typically settle down to watch every race during the meet, and they will likely want to make a selection in every race. Parlays are a common multiple-betting option, but they come with a degree of risk, as the bet will be lost if only one selection lets you down.
One of the most popular betting options with offshore sportsbooks is a Lucky 15. This multiple-betting option is formed of four selections, which cover all possible multiples. Therefore, a Lucky 15 will cover all possible singles, doubles, trebles, and the four-fold. If you wish to play $1 per line, then the total stake on this type of bet would be $15.
Ante-Post Betting
Expert bettors would have been keeping an eye on the Breeders’ Cup markets throughout the season, as bets can be placed on the championship races before the final fields have been determined. This is often the best time to get value on selections, and the prices of market leaders will likely be cut after they have been declared by connections.
Staying on top of the latest horse racing news is often key to making successful ante-post selections, but bettors will need to weigh up whether taking the early price is worth the gamble, as stakes won’t be returned if the runner doesn’t line up at the Breeders’ Cup.
Tips To Consider Before Betting On The Breeders’ Cup
The Breeders’ Cup sees stars from around the world in action, which means that a number of different form lines can be explored. For turf races, it is often more important to study the European form, as the caliber of races on the continent is typically at a higher level than those run on American turf.
Furthermore, all bettors should examine whether the runners involved in the championship races have proven course and distance form, while the trainers and jockeys strike rates at the Breeders’ Cup should be considered. The latter could point to the most likely winners of some of the biggest races at the event.
Final Thoughts
The Breeders’ Cup betting markets offer a captivating tapestry of opportunities for horse racing enthusiasts and bettors alike. This prestigious event, known for its high-stakes races and exceptional equine talent, draws in crowds from around the world, creating a dynamic and diverse wagering landscape.
We’ve explored the various betting markets available for the Breeders’ Cup, from traditional win, place, and show bets to more intricate options like exactas and trifectas. These markets provide an array of choices for both novice and seasoned bettors, allowing for different strategies and risk appetites.
Furthermore, we’ve witnessed how the Breeders’ Cup, with its eclectic mix of races, showcases the best in Thoroughbred horse racing. As a result, the betting markets are not only avenues for potential profit but also opportunities to engage with the sport at its highest level.
It’s important to approach Breeders’ Cup betting markets with careful consideration and research, as they can be complex and volatile. However, for those willing to invest time and effort, the Breeders’ Cup presents an extraordinary chance to partake in the excitement and passion of one of horse racing’s most significant events.
With a deep understanding of the markets and a dose of good fortune, bettors can savor the thrill of victory and the allure of the Breeders’ Cup year after year.
