There are a few betting options for British punters.(credit:
Kadath)
As another renewal of the prestigious Breeders’ Cup meeting falls upon us, many British gamblers will once again fall into the trap of not taking advantage of all the betting opportunities made available to them.
Punters from Britain have the chance to back their horses at Santa Anita at either US tote prices or at British bookmaker’s SPs, something that should not be undervalued.
Racingbase explains the difference:
The US tote is the American version of British Totepool betting. Exactly as if you were using the Tote at a course such as Epsom, when you go to Santa Anita and have a bet on the racetrack you can only use the US tote. In US tote betting, all the gambling public’s money is held by the track. Out of this pool, the track takes money for its operation, winning purses of the races, state taxes, and all other mandated funds. Those who have backed the winner then collect their portion from the pool after each race is completed.
While this is happening, UK bookmakers will offer punters the chance to back horses at industry prices. This means that as American horses back their own horses on the day, the prices about English and Irish horses generally increases on the US tote, while British bookmakers are keeping the prices more balanced and the market is far less volatile. This can mean that punters get a bigger price about an American horse with one of Britain’s leading bookmakers.
British punters who are not on course can choose to bet through the US tote when they place their bet with their chosen firm.
It does not always work and there will not be any more opportunities to back big priced British winners (Raven’s Pass in the 2008 Breeders’ Cup Classic for example), but it is worth remembering:
• If you are backing a British horse, then you should generally use the US tote.
• If you are backing an American horse, then you should generally use an industry price.
• But always double check on which way the markets are heading, it is not quite as clear cut as it has been in the past! The American’s have become more savvy to our British racing giants!
Punters are advised to capitalize on Victor Chandler’s free Breeders’ Cup bets, available to all new customers right now.