Washington State has a long-standing tradition of horse racing, dating back to the 19th century. Horse racing in the state is regulated by the Washington Horse Racing Commission, and there are several racetracks located throughout the state. Horse betting is permitted in Washington, allowing residents and visitors to the state to wager on their favorite horses. In this article, we’ll explore the legalities of betting on horses in Washington State, as well as the different types of bets available and the best places to bet on horses.
Is Horse Betting Legal in Washington?
Yes, horse betting is legal in Washington State. According to state law, wagering on horse racing is permitted as long as it is done at a licensed racing facility. The Washington Horse Racing Commission regulates all horse racing in the state and ensures that all bets are placed and paid out according to the rules of the commission.
Types of Horse Bets You Can Place in Washington
When it comes to betting on horses in Washington State, there are several different types of bets you can place. The following are some of the most common types of bets:
- Win: A win bet is when you bet on a horse to win the race. If your horse comes in first place, you win the bet.
- Place: A place bet is when you bet on a horse to finish either first or second in the race. If your horse finishes in either of those positions, you win the bet.
- Show: A show bet is when you bet on a horse to finish in the top three positions in the race. If your horse finishes in one of those positions, you win the bet.
- Exacta: An exacta bet is when you bet on two horses to finish first and second in the race in the exact order you select. If your horses finish in the exact order you predicted, you win the bet.
- Trifecta: A trifecta bet is when you bet on three horses to finish first, second, and third in the race in the exact order you select. If your horses finish in the exact order you predicted, you win the bet.
- Superfecta: A superfecta bet is when you bet on four horses to finish first, second, third, and fourth in the race in the exact order you select. If your horses finish in the exact order you predicted, you win the bet.
Where Can You Bet on Horses in Washington?
There are several places in Washington State where you can legally bet on horses. The following are some of the most popular racetracks in the state:
- Emerald Downs: Emerald Downs is a thoroughbred racetrack located in Auburn, Washington. The track hosts live racing from April to September each year, and it also offers simulcast wagering year-round.
- Yakima Meadows: Yakima Meadows is a harness racetrack located in Yakima, Washington. The track hosts live racing from April to August each year, and it also offers simulcast wagering year-round.
- Playfair Race Course: Playfair Race Course is a thoroughbred racetrack located in Spokane, Washington. The track hosts live racing from June to September each year, and it also offers simulcast wagering year-round.
Where Else Can You Bet on Horses in Washington?
In addition to the racetracks mentioned above, there are several other places in Washington State where you can legally bet on horses. These include online betting sites, off-track betting parlors, and mobile betting apps.
Online Horse Betting Sites in Washington
There are several online betting sites that are legally licensed to accept horse racing bets from Washington State residents. These sites offer a variety of betting options, including win, place, show, exacta, trifecta, and superfecta bets.
Off-Track Horse Betting Parlors in Washington
In addition to the racetracks listed above, there are also several off-track betting parlors in Washington State. These OTBs offer simulcast wagering on horse racing from tracks all over the world, as well as a variety of betting options, including win, place, show, exacta, trifecta, and superfecta bets.
Mobile Horse Betting Apps in Washington
Several mobile betting apps are available in Washington State, allowing you to bet on horses from anywhere in the state. These apps offer a variety of betting options, including win, place, show, exacta, trifecta, and superfecta bets.
Conclusion
Betting on horses is legal in Washington State, and there are several places where you can do so, including racetracks, online betting sites, off-track betting parlors, and mobile betting apps. Whether you’re an experienced gambler or a novice, you’ll be able to find a betting option that suits your needs.