How to Bet on a Triple Crown Race

The three races that make up the Triple Crown include the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes. Between May and early June fans gather in the infields of the country's most prestigious tracks and celebrate this monumental show of brute strength and agility. If you're new to betting on the races, you can use these simple tips to have fun at the track without losing the shirt off your back.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Tip sheet or race program

1. Pick a horse. If you're not sure which one to pick, it's always safe to bet on the favorite. Buy a tip sheet if you want handicapping tips from the pros. Look at handicap stats like the horse's pedigree, pace, speed and past performances. Get a race program and check out the odds for each horse. Make a note of the horse's name and number--you'll need this info at the betting window.
2. Select a wager. Select a "Win" wager if you want to pick only the first place finisher. Select a "Place" bet and you'll get paid if the horse you choose comes in first or second place. A "Show" bet pays out if you pick a horse that finishes in the top three. You can also bet on multiple horses. Place an "Exacta" bet to predict the first and second place finishers. Place a "Trifecta" wager to predict the first three horses to finish. Choose a "Quinella" wager to pick the first and second place finishers in any order.
3. Select the amount to wager. If this is your first time betting on a Triple Crown event, it's a good idea to stick with the minimum bet. The Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes both have $2 minimum bets and the Belmont Stakes has a $1 minimum bet.
4. Place your bet at the ticket window. Be sure to avoid the lines with $50 and $100 minimum bets. Have the amount of the wager, the type of wager and program number handy so you don't hold up the line. You can also place a bet at Self-Betting machines, or you can join an online gambling site and place a bet online (see Resources below).
5. Wait for the cashier to issue a ticket. Once you've got the ticket in hand, be sure to check it over quickly. Once the race starts you can't change your bet.
6. Check the tote board at the racetrack for race times, odds and official results. You'll find official Triple Crown results online from your favorite sports site or media outlet as well.