To bet on the Kentucky Derby, follow these key steps and understand the common bet types:
How to Bet on the Kentucky Derby
- Choose a Betting Platform
You can bet online through official sites like TwinSpires or FanDuel Racing, or in-person at racetracks and Off Track Betting facilities. Online platforms usually require free registration to start
- Understand Bet Types
- Win: Bet on the horse you think will finish first.
- Place: Bet on a horse to finish first or second.
- Show: Bet on a horse to finish first, second, or third.
- Exacta: Predict the first two finishers in exact order.
- Trifecta: Predict the first three finishers in exact order.
- Superfecta: Predict the first four finishers in exact order.
- Super High Five: Predict the first five finishers in exact order.
Combination bets like "Across the Board" cover Win, Place, and Show simultaneously but cost more
- Place Your Bet
- Log in or register on your chosen betting site.
- Select Churchill Downs as the track and the Kentucky Derby race.
- Choose your horse(s) by name or post position.
- Select your wager type and enter your bet amount (minimums apply).
- Submit your bet slip
- Consider Early Betting (Futures Wager)
You can place future bets months in advance during designated windows (November, February, March, April) to lock in better odds before the final field is set
- Budget Strategies
- Beginners should start with simple Win bets.
- More adventurous bettors can try Exacta or Trifecta bets for higher payouts.
- Betting on a budget is possible with small bets on exotic wagers like Exactas or Trifectas, which can yield large returns
Summary of Basic Bet Types
Bet Type| What You Are Betting On| Risk Level| Payout Potential
---|---|---|---
Win| Horse to finish 1st| Low| Moderate
Place| Horse to finish 1st or 2nd| Low| Lower than Win
Show| Horse to finish 1st, 2nd, or 3rd| Low| Lower than Place
Exacta| First two horses in exact order| Medium| Higher
Trifecta| First three horses in exact order| High| Higher
Superfecta| First four horses in exact order| Very High| Highest
By understanding these steps and bet types, you can confidently place bets on the Kentucky Derby and enjoy the excitement of "The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports"
