An exacta is a bet in horse racing where you select the first and second place finishers in the exact order. This type of bet is also known as a Perfecta or Exactor, and it can be made on any type of horserace. An exacta bet is a great way to get more out of your wagering dollar, as the payouts can be quite large if your picks are correct.
How to Bet an Exacta
In order to place an exacta bet, you will need to select the two horses you think will finish in first and second place in the order you think they will finish. This is done by visiting the racetrack or a licensed OTB (off-track betting) facility, or by using an online racebook.
When you place your exacta bet, you will need to specify the order of the horses you choose. For example, if you choose horse #1 to finish first and horse #2 to finish second, you would need to specify that order when you place your bet.
Understanding Exacta Payouts
The payouts for exacta bets can vary greatly, depending on the odds of the horses you choose. The payout for an exacta bet is calculated by multiplying the odds for the first horse you select by the odds for the second horse. For example, if you choose a horse with 4-1 odds to finish first and a horse with 6-1 odds to finish second, your exacta payout would be 24-1.
Boxing Your Exacta Bets
You also have the option of “boxing” your exacta bet, which means you can choose two horses to finish first and second in any order. If you box your exacta bet, you will pay more for your bet but you will also have a better chance of winning. For example, if you box a 4-1 horse and a 6-1 horse, your exacta payout would be 12-1 instead of 24-1.
Understanding Exacta Wheels
Another type of exacta bet is the exacta wheel, which allows you to select one horse to finish first and multiple horses to finish second. For example, if you select a 4-1 horse to finish first and two 6-1 horses to finish second, your exacta wheel would be 8-1. This type of bet is more expensive, but it can also result in a larger payout if your picks are correct.
Understanding Exacta Part Wheels
An exacta part wheel is similar to an exacta wheel, except you select multiple horses to finish first and second in any order. For example, if you select two 4-1 horses to finish first and two 6-1 horses to finish second, your exacta part wheel would be 16-1. Like the exacta wheel, this type of bet is more expensive, but it can also result in a larger payout if your picks are correct.
Understanding Exacta Keys
An exacta key is a bet where you select one horse to finish first and multiple horses to finish second in the exact order you choose. For example, if you select a 4-1 horse to finish first and two 6-1 horses to finish second, your exacta key would be 12-1. This type of bet is the most expensive, but it can also result in a large payout if your picks are correct.
Understanding Exacta Boxes
An exacta box is a bet where you select multiple horses to finish first and second in any order. For example, if you select two 4-1 horses to finish first and two 6-1 horses to finish second, your exacta box would be 24-1. This type of bet is the most expensive, but it can also result in a large payout if your picks are correct.
Understanding Exacta Part Boxes
An exacta part box is similar to an exacta box, except you select multiple horses to finish first and second in the exact order you choose. For example, if you select two 4-1 horses to finish first and two 6-1 horses to finish second, your exacta part box would be 48-1. This type of bet is the most expensive, but it can also result in a large payout if your picks are correct.
Tips for Betting an Exacta
Do Your Research
Before placing an exacta bet, it is important to do your research and become familiar with the horses in the race. Look at the horses’ past performances, their form, and their running style. This will help you make an informed decision and increase your chances of picking a winning exacta.
Follow the Odds
Pay attention to the odds for each horse in the race. If one horse has much higher odds than the others, it may be a good idea to include it in your exacta bet. This will help to increase your potential payout and give you a better chance of winning.
Set a Budget
When betting an exacta, it is important to set a budget and stick to it. Exacta bets can be expensive, so be sure to bet what you can afford and never chase your losses.
Shop Around
When placing an exacta bet, it is important to shop around for the best odds. Different racetracks and online racebooks offer different payouts, so be sure to compare the odds before placing your bet.
Conclusion
Betting an exacta can be a great way to get more out of your wagering dollar, as the payouts can be quite large if your picks are correct. It is important to do your research and become familiar with the horses in the race, pay attention to the odds, set a budget, and shop around for the best payouts. By following these tips, you should have a better chance of picking a winning exacta.