Harness Race Betting

Harness Race Betting is almost as popular in Australia as betting on thoroughbred races.  There are fewer tracks, however, and it does not enjoy the same almost carnival like atmosphere at the major races, but none the less harness racing is considered a good outing with bets being placed at the track as well as online for those who follow the sport.

Big Race Days

Like thoroughbred racing, harness racing also has its big Cup days at certain tracks. On these days a number of races are conducted, ranging from ponies up to the top class standardbreds. Like any other racecourse, bookies are on track on the big race days in order for punters to place bets. Smaller race days may not have any bookies at the track, although they will most likely have a contact number available should anyone feel like placing a bet on a favourite.

The online sites usually cover the big harness days. This allows punters from all over the country to place bets on horses running in various races. Again, the smaller races often aren’t covered, although there may be one or two local online betting sites, which will cover them if you look hard enough.

Betting on Harness Racing

Placing a bet on a harness race is very like placing a bet on a thoroughbred race. The concept is the same; horse betting racing around a track competing for first place. The major differences are of course that harness horses are pulling a cart, and are not allowed to gallop. They have to maintain a trot or a pace depending on the type of race.

Knowing the sport, its rules and its athletes, both equine and human, is imperative to placing a successful wager. As with thoroughbred racing, a horse may have been off for a while due to injury and thus will most likely not perform as well as its competitors no matter how well it had done in the past. Information on horses and their current status as well as past race results are available on the internet. Again, not as readily available as thoroughbred records but easily enough found with a bit of knowledge such as the horse’s name and possibly its sire’s name.

Smaller Days

Going to the harness track on the smaller race days is a good way to get to know your local horses and drivers. Often the crowds are not as big, and due to harness racing being less celebrity like than thoroughbred racing you may even be able to meet some of the trainers, drivers or horses. This is always a good way to get tips on various horses and races as well. Take each tip you get with a pinch of salt however as trainers and drivers may be biased. Back it up with some research both on the Internet and television, and down at the track too. Watching the horses train or warm up will also give you a good idea of their ability and potential.