Your lesson in betting lingo at Saratoga

At the track, but you don’t know how to bet? No worries, NewsChannel 13 has you covered.

Let’s start with the basics. Open up the racing form. Whether you like to look at the past performances, find a horse with a funny name or pick them based on the color of the jockey’s silks – the information is all in here.

Did you find the winner? Head to the betting window. This part is important – you need to place your bet in the right order. Tell the betting clerk how much you want to bet, what you want to bet and the number of the horse. Picking “Kershaw” to win the first race? Tell the clerk: “$5 to WIN on 9.”

Intimidated by the windows? You can always use the self-betting terminals or the NYRA Bets App.
If you tap a horse to WIN, they must come in first for you to cash your ticket.

Think your horse will finish first or second? Bet them to PLACE. If you think they’ll come in the top 3 – opt for a SHOW bet.

Looking for a little more difficulty and the chance to make some more money? Try an EXACTA – where you pick the top two finishers of that race in order. Or a TRIFECTA where you pick the top 3.

Not sure which order it will come in? It will cost you a bit more, but you can BOX the bet.

Feeling really lucky? Give the SUPERFECTA a shot – and pick the first 4 finishers.

Now that your bet is in, find your lucky spot at the rail, chair in the backyard or at your favorite TV. With a little luck, you’ll be back at the windows cashing your tickets!