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International Horse Racing Venues: How to Bet Beyond the US

Learn how to bet on global horse racing venues like Ascot, Sha Tin, and Flemington, including surface types, time zones, and strategy tips.

Rob Lawson avatar
Written by Rob Lawson
Updated over 2 months ago

Betting on horse racing doesn’t stop at the US border. International venues offer a whole new world of opportunity β€” with different track layouts, race strategies, and pool dynamics. Thanks to simulcast access on MyWinners, US bettors can wager on marquee meets at Royal Ascot, Tokyo Racecourse, Happy Valley, and Flemington, often at off-peak times that fit your schedule.

Understanding how international venues differ from US tracks is key to betting smart β€” and spotting value that others might miss.


Key Differences at International Tracks

🌍 Track Layouts

  • Many international tracks are right-handed (clockwise), unlike US tracks.

  • Courses like The Curragh or Chantilly feature undulating, irregular shapes, adding complexity to pace and positioning.

🌱 Turf Dominance

  • Turf is the default surface in most countries outside the US. Dirt races are rare in Europe and Asia.

  • Ground condition (going) β€” like soft or yielding turf β€” plays a major role in performance.

⏰ Time Zones

  • UK and Ireland races typically run mid-morning to early afternoon (ET).

  • Australian cards run overnight; Hong Kong and Japan operate late at night or very early morning.

🎯 Tactics and Field Size

  • Larger fields (often 14+ horses) are common, increasing potential payouts.

  • Races are more tactical β€” early speed is less dominant; positioning and timing matter more.


Popular International Tracks for US Bettors

Track

Country

Known For

Ascot

UK

Royal Ascot, elite turf racing

Flemington

Australia

Melbourne Cup, long straight

Tokyo Racecourse

Japan

World-class Grade 1s, massive fields

Happy Valley

Hong Kong

Night racing, tight tactical turf

The Curragh

Ireland

Home of Irish classics, rolling turf

All are available to bet on via MyWinners, including live odds, tote pools, and replays.


How to Bet Smart at International Tracks

  • Check the going: A horse that loves firm ground might struggle on soft turf in Europe.

  • Watch replays: On MyWinners.com, see how horses handled similar conditions or layouts.

  • Know the style: Back closers in Australia, but don’t underestimate tactical frontrunners in Hong Kong.

  • Use tote pools: Pools are global, so odds reflect international wagering patterns β€” that means bigger swings and bigger value.


πŸ’‘ Did You Know? In Japan, horse racing draws crowds of over 100,000, and fans follow the sport with the intensity of American football. Tokyo Racecourse even has fan sections for jockeys.


Frequently Asked Questions

How can I bet on international horse racing venues using MyWinners?

You can access and bet on major global races through the MyWinners.com platform, including live odds, tote pools, and video replays from tracks like Ascot, Happy Valley, and Flemington.

What are the key differences between US and international horse racing tracks?

International tracks often feature right-handed turns, turf surfaces, irregular layouts, and larger fields. Races tend to be more tactical than speed-driven.

Which international tracks are best for betting from the US?

Ascot, Tokyo Racecourse, Happy Valley, and Flemington are among the most bet-on tracks by US players due to quality racing and broadcast availability.

What are the best times to bet on international horse races from the US?

UK/Ireland races run in the morning (ET), Japan and Hong Kong run late night, and Australian races often happen overnight β€” perfect for off-peak wagering.

Does MyWinners show international track conditions and results?

Yes β€” MyWinners provides live going updates, track info, and race replays for all international simulcast venues it offers.

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