To bet on the Kentucky Derby, follow these steps and understand the common bet types and strategies:
How to Bet the Kentucky Derby
- Register and Fund an Account
Sign up for an account on an official betting platform like TwinSpires, the official wagering site of the Kentucky Derby. Registration is free and gives you access to live odds, race replays, and betting promotions
- Consider Early Betting with Futures
You can place Kentucky Derby Future Wagers months in advance (usually in November, February, March, and April). This allows you to bet on horses before the final field is set, often at better odds
- Wait for Final Field and Post Positions
The final lineup is confirmed by Monday or Tuesday of Derby week. After that, advance wagering opens about 24 hours before race day, allowing you to place bets online, via mobile apps, or at betting facilities
- Place Your Bets
Choose the race (usually the second-to-last race at Churchill Downs), select your horse by name or post position, pick your wager type, enter your stake, and submit your bet slip online or on your mobile device
Common Bet Types
- Win: Bet on the horse to finish first.
- Place: Bet on the horse to finish first or second.
- Show: Bet on the horse to finish first, second, or third.
- Exacta: Pick the first two finishers in exact order.
- Trifecta: Pick the first three finishers in exact order.
- Superfecta: Pick the first four finishers in exact order.
- Super High Five: Pick the first five finishers in exact order
Betting Strategies and Budget Examples
- For beginners, stick to Win bets as they are simplest and lowest risk.
- More adventurous bettors can try exactas or trifectas for higher payouts.
- Betting on favorites is often a solid strategy, as favorites frequently win the Derby.
- Budget examples:
- $30 budget: Place exacta bets combining key horses.
- $60 budget: Use trifecta bets covering multiple horses.
- $125 budget: Try superfecta bets with multiple combinations to maximize chances
Where to Bet
- Official online platforms like TwinSpires offer easy registration, live streaming, and betting promotions.
- Mobile apps such as FanDuel Racing and 1/ST BET also provide Kentucky Derby betting with special promo offers for new users
Summary
To bet the Kentucky Derby, register on an official betting site, consider early futures bets or wait for final post positions, then place your wager choosing from simple bets like Win or more complex bets like Exacta or Trifecta. Use a budget strategy that fits your risk tolerance, and take advantage of promotions on trusted platforms for the best experience
