Horse racing is a popular form of entertainment and gambling in the United States, and Illinois is no exception. There are a number of racetracks in the state, offering opportunities for betting on both harness and thoroughbred racing. The question of whether or not you can bet on horse racing in Illinois depends on the type of wager you’re looking to make and the regulations that apply to that type of wager.
Types of Horse Racing Wagers in Illinois
In Illinois, there are a number of different types of wagers that can be placed on horse racing. These include:
- Win: A bet on a single horse to win the race.
- Place: A bet on a single horse to finish in the top two.
- Show: A bet on a single horse to finish in the top three.
- Across the Board: A combination wager of win, place, and show.
- Exacta: A bet on two horses to finish in the top two in the exact order.
- Quinella: A bet on two horses to finish in the top two in either order.
- Trifecta: A bet on three horses to finish in the top three in the exact order.
- Superfecta: A bet on four horses to finish in the top four in the exact order.
Where to Bet on Horse Racing in Illinois
In Illinois, there are two types of racetracks where you can legally place bets on horse racing: pari-mutuel racetracks and off-track betting facilities. Pari-mutuel racetracks are racetracks where the odds are determined by the amount of money wagered on each horse. Off-track betting facilities are locations, such as bars and restaurants, where people can watch and bet on horse races.
Pari-Mutuel Racetracks in Illinois
The following are the pari-mutuel racetracks in Illinois:
- Arlington Park
- Balmoral Park
- Fairmount Park
- Hawthorne Race Course
- Maywood Park
- Quad City Downs
Off-Track Betting Facilities in Illinois
The following are the off-track betting facilities in Illinois:
- Off Track Betting Facility at Sportsman’s Park
- Off Track Betting Facility at the Isle Casino
- Off Track Betting Facility at the Grand Victoria Casino
- Off Track Betting Facility at the Hollywood Casino
- Off Track Betting Facility at the Rivers Casino
Online Horse Racing Betting in Illinois
Unfortunately, there is no legal online horse racing betting in Illinois. The state does not allow any form of online gambling, and this includes online horse racing betting.
Age Requirement for Horse Racing Betting in Illinois
In order to legally place a wager on horse racing in Illinois, you must be at least 21 years of age. Any person under the age of 21 is prohibited from participating in any form of horse racing betting.
Tax on Horse Racing Winnings in Illinois
Any winnings from horse racing betting in Illinois are subject to taxation. The state of Illinois taxes any winnings of $600 or more at a rate of 4.95%. Any winnings of less than $600 are not subject to taxation.
Additional Regulations for Horse Racing Betting in Illinois
In addition to the regulations outlined above, there are a few other regulations that must be followed when betting on horse racing in Illinois. First, all bets must be placed via a pari-mutuel pool and the total amount wagered must be equal to or less than the amount in the pool. Second, all bets must be placed prior to the start of the race. Finally, any winnings must be claimed within 180 days of the race.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is legal to bet on horse racing in Illinois. There are a number of racetracks and off-track betting facilities in the state, and a variety of wagers available to bet on. However, online horse racing betting is not legal in the state, and all bettors must be at least 21 years of age. Additionally, any winnings of $600 or more are subject to taxation at a rate of 4.95%. Finally, all bets must be placed via a pari-mutuel pool and all winnings must be claimed within 180 days.