Want to level up your horse racing bets? Exacta, Trifecta, and Superfecta wagers are exotic bet types that require you to predict the exact finishing order of a race — and they’re where some of the biggest payouts in US racing come from. They're not easy to hit, but when they land, they hit big. You can play these bets online at MyWinners or at a Winners venue, with flexible stake sizes and pool-based odds.
What are Exacta, Trifecta, and Superfecta bets?
What are Exacta, Trifecta, and Superfecta bets?
These bets ask you to predict the exact order of finish:
Exacta – Pick the 1st and 2nd place finishers in exact order
Trifecta – Pick the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishers in exact order
Superfecta – Pick the 1st through 4th place finishers in exact order
You can also “box” or “wheel” these bets to cover more combinations (at a higher cost), which increases your chances of winning.
Where did Exacta, Trifecta, and Superfecta bets come from?
Where did Exacta, Trifecta, and Superfecta bets come from?
Exotic wagers were introduced in the mid-20th century to add excitement beyond traditional Win, Place, Show betting. The Exacta gained popularity in the 1960s, with Trifectas and Superfectas added in the decades that followed. Today, these bets are a staple at major race meets and attract large betting pools due to their difficulty and payout potential.
Why are Exacta, Trifecta, and Superfecta bets so popular?
Why are Exacta, Trifecta, and Superfecta bets so popular?
Big payout potential – Even small stakes can return hundreds or thousands
High excitement – You’re locked into every turn of the race
Customisable strategy – Use form, pace, odds, and jockey data to build combinations
Box and wheel options – Cover multiple outcomes with flexible bet slips
Frequent availability – Offered on nearly every race at MyWinners.
They’re popular with experienced bettors, but even newcomers enjoy trying small-boxed bets during big events like the Kentucky Derby.
What types of races use Exacta, Trifecta, and Superfecta bets?
What types of races use Exacta, Trifecta, and Superfecta bets?
These bets are available on nearly all pari-mutuel races, including:
Thoroughbred racing
Harness racing
Quarter Horse racing
Greyhound racing (where applicable)
You'll find them in all race classes — including Claiming, Allowance, and Stakes races — and particularly in larger fields where payouts are highest.
What should bettors know before placing exotic bets?
What should bettors know before placing exotic bets?
You must predict the exact finishing order unless using a box/wheel
Boxed bets increase your cost based on combinations
Payouts are pari-mutuel and depend on the total pool and number of winning tickets
Available legally in states with licensed pari-mutuel wagering
You must be geolocated in a legal betting state to place them on MyWinners
💡 Did You Know? In 2005, a bettor hit a $1 Superfecta at the Kentucky Derby that paid $864,253.50 — all for predicting the exact top four finishers in a 20-horse field. It’s one of the biggest payouts from a single $1 bet in US history.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a boxed and straight Exacta?
What’s the difference between a boxed and straight Exacta?
A straight Exacta requires the correct order. A boxed Exacta allows the horses to finish in any order — but costs more because you're covering more combinations.
How much does a Trifecta or Superfecta cost?
How much does a Trifecta or Superfecta cost?
It depends on your wager and structure. A $1 Trifecta Box with 3 horses costs $6. A $1 Superfecta Box with 4 horses costs $24.
Are exotic bets good for small bankrolls?
Are exotic bets good for small bankrolls?
Yes — if used selectively. Even $1 or 50¢ minimums can yield huge returns, especially in large fields with longshot finishes.
Can I place exotic bets on greyhound races?
Can I place exotic bets on greyhound races?
Yes — if greyhound races are simulcast and offer these pools, MyWinners.com allows exotic bets like Exacta and Trifecta.
Do I have to play all three — Exacta, Trifecta, and Superfecta — in one race?
Do I have to play all three — Exacta, Trifecta, and Superfecta — in one race?
No. They’re separate wagers. You can choose to play just one or combine them across different races as part of your strategy.