Betting on horse racing can be as simple or as complex as you make it. This FAQ covers specific questions bettors have about wagering types, minimums, rules, and how the system works behind the scenes — both online and at the track.
What is the minimum bet I can place on MyWinners?
Most bet types start at $2, but many exotic wagers (like Pick 4 or Trifecta) allow $0.50 or $1 increments depending on the rules of the track and bet structure.
Can I place fractional bets like 50 cents or $1 online?
Yes, MyWinners.com supports fractional bets for most exotic wagers, including Exacta boxes, Trifectas, and multi-race wagers, when permitted by the host track.
What happens if my horse finishes second in a Win bet?
Win bets only pay if your horse finishes first. If your horse finishes second, you’ll lose the Win bet unless you also placed a Place or Across the Board wager.
Why did my Exacta or Trifecta pay less than expected?
Exotic bets pay from their own pools, and the payout depends on how many people selected the same combination. If your combo was popular, the payout will be lower.
What’s the difference between a box and a wheel bet?
A box includes all combinations of your selections in any order. A wheel allows you to fix one or more horses in specific finishing positions and vary others.
Can I cancel or edit a bet after I place it on MyWinners.com?
No. Pari-mutuel rules prevent changes or cancellations once a bet is submitted and confirmed, so always review your ticket carefully before placing it.
Do I have to bet before post time, or can I wager during the race?
All bets must be placed before post time. Once the race begins, the pools close and no more wagers are accepted.
Why did my payout change from when I placed the bet?
Odds in pari-mutuel betting change until post time based on pool size and distribution. Your final payout is based on the closing odds, not the odds when you bet.
What’s a “key horse” in exotic wagering?
A key horse is one you believe will finish in a specific position (like first), and you build combinations around it for Exactas, Trifectas, or multi-race bets.
Can I bet on international races through MyWinners?
Yes. MyWinners offers betting on select international races, including events from the UK, Ireland, Australia, and more — all in US dollars with adjusted post times.