TRIFECTAS
The trifecta wager involves selecting the first three finishers in order in a particular race. Unlike the exacta wager - where you select the first two finishers, the trifecta is more challenging to hit because of its nature of having to successfully select the first three positions of the race. It is a wager that requires a bit of luck to hit, and is one that generally requires a more sophisticated strategy than the simpler exacta wager. Since you have to select the top three finishers, the average cost - depending on the ticket size - is also generally higher than the exacta wager. However when cashing in on a winning trifecta bet, the payoffs yield higher margins and are more rewarding.
| Description: | Your horses must finish 1st, 2nd, and 3rd in exact order. |
| Winning $1 payoff: | $50+ |
| Popularity: | Interest in the trifecta wager is fairly high and continues to grow at tracks that offer guaranteed pool sizes. |
| Frequency: | Varies, but most racing jurisdictions require at least eight betting interests to have the bet. |
| Minimum: | Either $0.50 or $1 depending on the racetrack |
| How to say the bet: | "Arlington Park, Race 3, $2 trifecta 5-8-9" |
Why bet a trifecta? The allure of a huge payoff might be the best reason, but the challenge of selecting the top three finishers in the correct order also attracts bettors. This wager requires extraordinary study and generally rewards the sharper and more dedicated horse players.
