If you're not sure how confident to feel about your pick, an Across the Board bet gives you coverage. It’s a single wager that acts like three — backing your horse to Win, Place, and Show. Whether you're just getting started or betting a longshot in the Kentucky Derby, Across the Board lets you play it safe while still chasing a big payout. It’s easy to place, easy to follow, and available on every race at MyWinners.
What is an Across the Board bet?
What is an Across the Board bet?
An Across the Board bet is actually three separate bets on the same horse: one to Win, one to Place, and one to Show. It gives you multiple ways to get a return:
If your horse wins, all three bets pay.
If your horse finishes second, you win Place and Show.
If your horse finishes third, you win Show only.
It’s a popular way to cover all bases with one horse — especially if you think they’ll run well, but aren’t sure they’ll win.
Where did Across the Board betting come from?
Where did Across the Board betting come from?
This bet structure has been around since the early 1900s, as a way for bettors to hedge risk while still backing a single runner. It became widely used in American racing as the default choice for those who said, “I like this horse — just cover me everywhere.”
Why do bettors like Across the Board bets?
Why do bettors like Across the Board bets?
Simple to understand — three basic bets, one horse
Partial payout protection — even if your horse doesn’t win
Flexible — great for mid-priced horses who often “hit the board”
Great for learning — it teaches how Win, Place, and Show work
No guesswork — one bet slip covers all finishing possibilities
It's especially appealing for new bettors on MyWinners or fans backing a favourite in big races like the Kentucky Derby.
What types of races use Across the Board bets?
What types of races use Across the Board bets?
These bets are available in nearly every pari-mutuel race, including:
Thoroughbred racing
Harness racing
Quarter Horse racing
Greyhound racing (where legal and available via simulcast)
Across the Board bets are valid across all race classes — from Claiming to Grade 1 Stakes.
What should bettors know before placing Across the Board bets?
What should bettors know before placing Across the Board bets?
You’re placing three individual bets, so your $2 bet becomes a $6 total wager
Your payouts reflect each individual pool (Win, Place, Show)
Betting favourites Across the Board often leads to small returns
This is a pari-mutuel wager, so odds may shift until post time
Always check that you’re betting from a licensed state if using MyWinners
💡 Did You Know? In 2022, a $2 Across the Board bet on an 80–1 longshot in the Kentucky Derby paid over $170 total — even though most bettors only expected a Place or Show. Sometimes, betting “all three” on a risky horse really pays off.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an Across the Board bet cost?
How much does an Across the Board bet cost?
It’s the sum of three bets. So if you wager $2 Across the Board, the total cost is $6 ($2 Win + $2 Place + $2 Show).
When should I use an Across the Board strategy?
When should I use an Across the Board strategy?
It’s best when you like a horse to run well — but aren’t confident it’ll win. Mid-range or improving horses often make good ATB picks.
Can I place an Across the Board bet online?
Can I place an Across the Board bet online?
Yes. On MyWinners.com, select a horse and choose Across the Board to automatically create Win, Place, and Show wagers.
Can Across the Board be used in greyhound racing?
Can Across the Board be used in greyhound racing?
Yes — if Win, Place, and Show are available on a greyhound race, you can apply the same logic for a three-part Across the Board play.
Do all three bets have to win for a payout?
Do all three bets have to win for a payout?
No. Each bet is separate. For example, if your horse finishes 2nd, you lose the Win bet but collect on Place and Show.