What is Virtual Horse Racing Betting?
Horse Racing is one of the most popular sports you can bet on here at Betfred, with races from around the world being available on a daily basis. But did you know that there is another way you can bet on horse racing? Virtually.
Similar to how you would see our markets for traditional horse racing, virtual horse racing offers another way for them to enjoy horse racing. With races frequent throughout the day and around three minutes apart, punters are never short of chances to gamble. For those who are new to virtual gambling, we at Betfred Insights Education have put together this explainer to give you a better understanding.
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Sports Welcome Offer
New customers only. Deposit via Debit Card & place first bet £10+ (1/1+) on Sports in 7 days. £30 Sports & £20 Acca Free Bets within 10 hrs of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility, payment excl. & T&Cs Apply.
What is Virtual Horse Racing?
Virtual horse racing is an artificial version of the traditional sport we see on the television throughout the year, with all the races using computer generated imagery. These present all the races accessed via the virtual sports tab via betfred.com.
Similarly to traditional horse racing, you are provided with the times of the races throughout the day, and beneath them are the runners (horses), which can vary in number.
On your screen you will see a countdown timer to notify you how long it is until the next race starts and the markets suspend, giving you an idea of how long you've got to get your bets in.
After the race is completed the results will flash up on screen, before the countdown starts over again in preparation of the next race to come.
How do the results work?
The results for the races are designed by a computer algorithm in which the outcomes are weighted (similar to traditional horse racing) but the result is decided by a regulated random number generator which delivers unpredictability. This ensures there is no bias.
What markets can I bet on?
- Straight bets - This is where you simply select a horse to win and is ideal for beginners.
- Each-way bets - This is a form of insurance betting. You essentially have two bets on - for the horse to win and for the horse to place. You will receive one fifth of the odds if your horse finishes second or third.
- Forecast - This is where you pick two horses to either finish in first and second or in any order.
- Tricast - This is where you pick three horses to either finish in first, second and third, or in any order.
- Accumulator - Putting multiple selections in the same bet from different races to increase the odds.
Advantages
- Offers you something to bet on if there are no real world events available at the time.
- Races are frequent, presenting less waiting times than traditional horse racing.
- No knowledge required as there is no form guide or anything to rely on, meaning anyone can jump straight in here (ideal for beginners).
- No bias due to the computer algorithm determining the results randomly.
- Virtual aspect means there are never any non-runners or tracks impacted by adverse weather conditions.
Disadvantages
- Frequent races means more chances of people continuing to bet and chase losses. Knowing when to stop and setting limits is sensible with Virtual Horse Racing.
- The lack of stats and form guide may not appeal to the players who like the research and analysis that comes with traditional horse racing.
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New customers only. Deposit via Debit Card & place first bet £10+ (1/1+) on Sports in 7 days. £30 Sports & £20 Acca Free Bets within 10 hrs of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility, payment excl. & T&Cs Apply.
