Horse Racing Basics

The main object of betting on horses is to beat the 'Oddsmakers' or the 'Odds Compilers' and win some money. Additionally, placing a bet on your favorite event makes the race exciting and more enjoyable.

Betting is done through Sports books or Sportsbooks (US) and Bookmakers (UK) entities that accept bets. You can bet on the outcome of horse races and several sporting events.

To place a bet, you go to a sportsbook, physical or online. You could also bet over the phone with many sportsbooks. Note that a sportsbook is not the same as an oddsmaker. The sports book simply accepts sports bets. An oddsmaker is a person who sets the betting odds.

You need to state what you are betting on by making a selection, the type of bet and the amount you are wagering. Your selection will obviously depend on the odds offered, so you will want to examine the range of odds available before you make a decision.