Idiot’s guide to betting on the day
FOR any “newbies” going to the Sun Met on Saturday for the first time, since it IS a horse-racing event, you really should have a few dabbles in the betting market during the day.
However, the process of placing a bet can be daunting, confusing and even downright intimidating to the uninitiated, so this is an attempt to demystify the process.
First of all, before approaching the tote have a clear idea of what your selection is.
The people behind you in the queue will become restless if you start minutely studying what is running at the last minute.
Once you have the tote teller’s attention, clearly call out what bet you wish to take. For example: “I want R20 on Kenilworth Race 9, number 1 to win.’’ You can also bet with floating-tote hostesses walking around on the day.
Lastly, check your ticket is accurate before leaving the counter. Any mistakes cannot be rectified after the race!
You can also fill out coupons, but these are difficult to explain to the beginner; sticking to the verbal route would be recommended at this fledgling stage of your career as a high-roller.
There are various types of bets available, so let’s run through the most popular ones.
1) WIN – nice and simple – your horse has to be first past the post.
2) PLACE – has to finish in the first three, or four if there are 16 or more runners. The payout will be less than for winning, but the chance of success is greater.
3) WIN/PLACE – combines both, as you receive a dividend for winning or placing. A safer option if you are not sure.
4) SWINGER – no, not a naughty individual, but a bet where your two selections have to both be among the first three past the post. Can pay handsomely, especially on a big race like the Sun Met with 20 runners.
5) TRIFECTA – correctly identify the first three past the post. Difficult.
6) QUARTET – correctly identify the first four past the post. Very difficult, but can net you some serious if you manage to pull it off.
Before stepping into the punting arena be clear what your budget is and what you are comfortable with losing. Look at it as entertainment; it’s called “gambling” for a reason. Happy punting!