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Off Track Betting (OTB) Explained

What is Off Track in sports betting? Guide TrustnBet

Ever thought about betting on a horse race without stepping foot on the racetrack? Off-track betting lets you wager on horse or greyhound races from a location away from the action.

In this guide, you’ll discover how OTB works, its convenience, and how it stands apart from traditional betting. Plus, we’ll dive into using off-track betting apps to boost your experience!

🔑 Key Takeaways

  • Understanding off track betting and how it works.
  • Find out about the benefits of offtrack betting.
  • Learn how to use off track betting apps.

What Is Off Track Betting?

Off-track betting (OTB) refers to sanctioned wagering on horse or greyhound races away from the racetrack. It operates on parimutuel betting, where odds are determined by the total amount wagered on each outcome, and a small commission is charged on winnings.

Unlike traditional betting, which occurs at the racetrack and covers various events, OTB focuses solely on horse and greyhound races and takes place at off-site locations regulated by state authorities.

→ Learn more about horse racing betting rules and regulations on your linked page.

How Off Track Betting Works

Here’s how online OTB works:

  1. Create an account with a licensed OTB operator or place bets at a physical location.

    Provide details like name, age, and proof of residency.

  2. Choose your bet type.

    Between win, place, show, exacta, or trifecta.

  3. Enter your stake.

    Confirm your bet.

  4. Bets are processed in real-time.

    Through OTB operator software, which handles betting updates and odds.

  5. All bets on the same race are collected in a parimutuel pool.

    It determines odds based on the total amount wagered.

  6. At the race’s end, winnings are credited.

    Directly to bettors’ accounts.

    Note: OTB software ensures secure processing, real-time updates, and easy access to betting history.

    Benefits of Off Track Betting 

    Off-track betting offers bettors several advantages, including convenience:

    • Convenience and accessibility: Bettors do not need to visit the racetracks to bet, as off-track betting ensures all events are readily accessible from their mobile apps from anywhere.
    • Broader access: There is wider access to betting markets that may not be available on-site when bettors use off-track betting platforms.
    • Variety of betting options: Off-track betting provides bettors with a wide variety of betting options, including prop bets, exotic bets, and futures, all of which may not be available on-site.
    • Bonuses and promotions: OTB platforms offer their users certain incentives and loyalty bonuses to retain them and attract even more users.
    • Competitive odds: Often times, the odds offered on events by OTB operators are bigger than the numbers one will find at racetracks. 

    Off Track Betting Locations

    While you can find OTB locations close to you by visiting the websites of licensed off-track betting operators and reputable sources, here are some popular physical and online operators: 

    For physical locations in the US:

    • Resorts World Catskills (Monticello, New York) offers horse racing, sports betting, and casino games. 
    • Tampa Bay Downs (Tampa, FL) also offers horse racing and sports betting for their customers.
    • Empire City Casino (Yonkers, NY) has horse racing, sports betting, and casino games available. 
    • Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment (East Rutherford, New Jersey) Horse racing, sports betting, and casino games are also offered here.

    For online platforms:

    • FanDuel: Racing betting is available for bettors located in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Colorado.
    • TwinSpires, BetAmerica, TVG, and Churchill Downs Online are available in most states. 

    Off Track Betting Apps

    Off-track betting apps make wagering easier with real-time odds, race streaming, diverse betting options, and secure payment gateways.

    Here’s how to get started:

    1. Search your app store.

      For “OTB apps” or “horse racing betting apps.”

    2. Choose trusted apps.

      Download and install.

    3. Register an account.

      Provide personal details and fund it.

    4. Explore the app.

      Navigate to the betting section, and select your bet type.

    5. Place your wager.

      Choose your horse(s), and confirm.

    6. Track your bets.

      Results live on the app.

    Off Track Horse Betting Strategies

    Off-track horse bettors often rely on these betting strategies for better results:

    • Handicapping: Analyze horses, jockeys, trainers, and track conditions to make informed bets.
    • Daily Double: Bet on the winners of two consecutive races, often the first and second of the day.
    • Favorite-Long Shot-Favorite (FLF): Bet on favorites in two races with a long shot in between for higher payouts if the long shot wins.
    • Hedging: Place bets on multiple horses to minimize losses and secure profits.
    • Bet Against Favorites: Don’t shy away from betting on underdogs when the odds suggest value.

    Off Track Betting History

    Off-track betting began in 1933 in Ohio, making it the first state to legalize it under the oversight of the Ohio Racing Commission.

    In 1970, New York State passed its first OTB law, establishing the New York City Off-Track Betting Corporation, which began operations in 1971. By 1972, Schenectady followed suit with its own OTB corporation.

    Pennsylvania joined in 1988, becoming the fifth state to legalize OTB.

    Despite setbacks, including NYC OTB’s Chapter 9 bankruptcy in 2009, five regional OTB corporations continue to operate in New York, overseen by boards appointed by local governments.

    Off Track Betting Events

    Stay updated on OTB events and races with these steps:

    • Research online: Use search engines to find event schedules and results.
    • Follow on social media: Track OTB operators and industry experts for updates.
    • Visit racetrack websites: Check the event host’s site for schedules and simulcast info, like Western New York OTB.
    • Visit OTB locations: Inquire directly for event schedules.
    • Use Google Calendar: Set reminders for upcoming races.
    • Try mobile apps: Apps like FanDuel Racing, TVG, or NYRA Bets provide schedules, betting options, and live results.

    Ready to Make Off-Track Betting Work for You?

    Now that you’ve grasped the essentials of off-track betting, you’re equipped to boost your payouts. Whether betting at a physical location or using apps, remember to apply the strategies and tips from this guide to boost your success.

    Want to sharpen your overall betting skills? Explore our sports setting 101 section for further expert insights!