A Superfecta is a type of wager in horse racing where the bettor must correctly select the first four finishers of a race in the exact order. Superfectas are the most difficult wagers to win in horse racing, and the payouts can be quite lucrative if the bettor is successful.
How Much Do Superfectas Pay Out?
The payouts for Superfectas can vary greatly depending on the size of the field and the type of race. In a smaller field, such as a six-horse race, the Superfecta may only pay a few hundred dollars. On the other hand, a larger field of eight horses or more could pay out tens of thousands of dollars if all four selections are correct.
Factors That Affect Superfecta Payouts
There are several factors that can affect the size of the Superfecta payout. The size of the field, the type of race, the betting pool, and the type of bettor can all influence the size of the payout.
Size of the Field
As previously mentioned, the size of the field can have a big impact on the Superfecta payout. Generally speaking, the larger the field, the larger the potential payout. This is because more horses mean more possible combinations, which increases the likelihood of a larger payout.
Type of Race
The type of race being contested can also have an effect on the Superfecta payout. Stakes races, which feature the best horses in the country, tend to have larger payouts than claiming or allowance races.
Betting Pool
The size of the betting pool is also a factor that can influence the size of the Superfecta payout. The larger the betting pool, the larger the potential payout.
Type of Bettor
The type of bettor can also have an impact on the Superfecta payout. Professional bettors with a knowledge of handicapping and a well-developed betting strategy are more likely to win Superfectas than recreational bettors who are simply playing the odds.
Calculating Superfecta Payouts
In order to calculate Superfecta payouts, you will need to know the size of the field, the type of race, and the size of the betting pool. Once these factors are known, the payout can be calculated using the following formula:
- Payout = (Number of Horses in Field)^4 x (Betting Pool)
- Example: 8 Horse Field x $10 Betting Pool = $512,000 Payout
Superfecta Strategies
Due to the difficulty of picking the first four finishers in the exact order, there are several strategies that can be employed to increase the chances of a successful Superfecta bet.
Boxing
Boxing is a popular Superfecta betting strategy that involves betting on multiple combinations of horses in the same race. This strategy increases the chances of success as the bettor is essentially covering multiple combinations with one bet.
Wheel Betting
Wheel betting is another popular Superfecta betting strategy that involves betting on a single horse to win and then combining that horse with other horses in the field for the second, third, and fourth positions. This strategy increases the chances of success as the bettor is essentially covering multiple combinations with one bet.
Part-Wheeling
Part-wheeling is a variation of wheel betting that involves betting on multiple horses to win and then combining those horses with other horses in the field for the second, third, and fourth positions. This strategy increases the chances of success as the bettor is essentially covering multiple combinations with one bet.
Superfecta Payouts and Taxes
Any winnings from Superfecta bets are subject to taxes. Winnings over $600 must be reported to the IRS and taxes must be paid on the full amount.
Conclusion
Superfectas are the most difficult wagers to win in horse racing, but they can also be the most lucrative. The payouts can vary greatly depending on the size of the field and the type of race, but with the right strategy and a bit of luck, bettors can turn a modest investment into a big payday.