California Online Horse Betting: Top CA Race Apps & Sites

Compare The Top Online Horse Betting Sites in The Golden State

Hero image
#1 Best overall
betus_sportsbook
5 stars
125% up to $3,125

5

Overall Rating

22

Top features:

  • One of the biggest sports bonuses
  • 10x bonus wagering requirement
  • Parlay builder for complex bets

What we like:

  • Accepts all major cryptos
  • Online since 1994
  • Teasers and if bets
#1 Best overall
betus_sportsbook
5 stars

Bonus:

125% up to $3,125

Top features:

  • One of the biggest sports bonuses
  • 10x bonus wagering requirement
  • Parlay builder for complex bets

Bonus:

125% up to $3,125

5

5 stars
22

What we like:

  • Accepts all major cryptos
  • Online since 1994
  • Teasers and if bets
#2 Best recurring promos
betonline_sportsbook
4.5 stars
50% up to $1,000

4.5

Overall Rating

23

Top features:

  • More than 20 sports to bet on
  • Excellent odds for US bettors
  • Deposit with 16+ cryptocurrencies

What we like:

  • Bitcoin boost and risk-free prop
  • Responsive mobile betting app
  • 22+ years on the market
#2 Best recurring promos
betonline_sportsbook
4.5 stars

Bonus:

50% up to $1,000
#2 Best recurring promos

Top features:

  • More than 20 sports to bet on
  • Excellent odds for US bettors
  • Deposit with 16+ cryptocurrencies

Bonus:

50% up to $1,000

4.5

4.5 stars
23

What we like:

  • Bitcoin boost and risk-free prop
  • Responsive mobile betting app
  • 22+ years on the market
#3 Best native app
bovada_sportsbook
4 stars
50% up to $250

4

Overall Rating

21

Top features:

  • Live sports streams in HD
  • Great in-game betting features
  • Multiple cryptos supported

What we like:

  • Excellent native mobile app
  • 5x bonus playthrough
  • Online since 2011
#3 Best native app
bovada_sportsbook
4 stars

Bonus:

50% up to $250
#3 Best native app

Top features:

  • Live sports streams in HD
  • Great in-game betting features
  • Multiple cryptos supported

Bonus:

50% up to $250

4

4 stars
21

What we like:

  • Excellent native mobile app
  • 5x bonus playthrough
  • Online since 2011

Key Things You Need to Know About Racebooks in California

  • Unlike some states, sports betting is not yet legal in California. However, horse racing is an exception. Californians can legally bet on horse racing events, both on-track and off-track, thanks to laws dating back to the 1930s.
  • California boasts several world-class racetracks, including Santa Anita Park, Del Mar, and Golden Gate Fields. These tracks host some of the most prestigious horse racing events in the country, such as the Breeders’ Cup and the Pacific Classic.
  • Despite the restrictions on online sports betting, online racebooks are legal and plentiful in California. These platforms allow residents to wager on horse races happening in-state, nationally, and even internationally.
  • Major online racebooks operating in California include TwinSpires, BetAmerica, and TVG. These operators offer features like live streaming, handicapping tools, and a variety of betting options.
  • In California, online betting on horse racing is facilitated through Advance Deposit Wagering (ADW). This system requires bettors to fund their accounts before placing wagers, ensuring all bets are covered in advance.
  • While sports betting is currently illegal, there have been multiple attempts to legalize it in recent years. Although these attempts have not yet been successful, the future of sports betting in California is a hot topic, with potential changes on the horizon.

List of the Best Horse Racing Betting Sites in California

  • BetUS – Best Online Racebook in California
  • Bovada – Excellent Customer Service and Racebook Design
  • MyBookie – Huge Amount of Race Tracks to Bet On

Reviews of the Best California Horse Racing Betting Sites

Let’s move on to our in-depth reviews of three standout platforms. We’ll examine their unique features, diverse racecourse selections, and the betting opportunities they offer, providing insights to enhance your wagering experience.

BetUS – Best Online Racebook in California

BetUS is a renowned racebook that has been providing exceptional services to the California betting community since 1994. Holding a license from Curacao, BetUS has cultivated a reputation for trust and reliability, making it a favorite among many bettors.

The platform offers an impressive range of wagering opportunities, covering over 150 racetracks. This broad selection ensures that bettors always have a diverse array of options to choose from. The racing markets are extensive, featuring win, place, and show markets, as well as quinellas, exactas, and much more. Bettors can enjoy thoroughbred horse racing, fixed odds horse racing, harness horse racing and quarter horse racing, catering to a wide range of preferences.

BetUS Racing

Promotions are a significant aspect of BetUS’s offerings, and they do not disappoint. The platform offers a 125% sign-up bonus, which includes a 100% sportsbook bonus and a 25% casino bonus, up to $3,125 on first deposits using the promotional code JOIN125.

The bonus has a 10x rollover requirement before withdrawing the online sportsbook bonus, and a 14-day time limit. The minimum possible deposit to qualify for this promotion is $100. Another promotion allows bettors to get their money back, up to a maximum of $100, if their chosen horse finishes second or third.

BetUS also excels in customer service, offering various channels for support, including phone, email, fax, online chat, or social media. This multi-channel approach ensures that customers can reach out for assistance in the most convenient way for them.

The platform’s design is modern and simple to navigate, providing a smooth user experience. The website is accessible and well-organized, making it easy for bettors to quickly find what they’re looking for.

When it comes to banking options, BetUS offers a wide range of methods, including credit cards (Visa/Mastercard/Amex), cash transfer, Card2Wallet (Google Pay/Apple Pay), cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin/Litecoin/Ethereum), as well as bank wire. The maximum possible deposit by card is $2,499, and the maximum deposit by crypto is $50,000. Additionally, the minimum possible deposit is $10, and neither option comes with transaction fees. You can withdraw up to $5,000 per day, with withdrawals taking up to 24 hours after reaching PAID status.

Finally, BetUS is mobile-compatible, working seamlessly on modern iOS or Android mobile devices or tablets. This compatibility ensures that bettors can wager on the move, enhancing convenience and flexibility.

Bovada – Excellent Customer Service and Racebook Design

Bovada is an offshore betting site that has been operating since 2011 and has carved a niche for itself in the California horse racing betting scene. This platform has consistently demonstrated its commitment to providing an unmatched betting experience, despite its lack of a formal license.

Bovada boasts a significant array of betting opportunities, covering a broad spectrum of domestic and international racecourses. This diversity ensures that bettors are always spoiled for choice, with something to cater to every preference. 

Bovada Racing

The platform’s racing betting markets are equally impressive, encompassing quinellas, exactas, superfectas, daily doubles, pick 3, and pick 4 in addition to the typical markets like win, show, and place. Such a comprehensive selection of markets enables bettors to engage in a variety of betting activities, enhancing their overall experience.

The platform’s promotional offerings are another highlight. Bovada offers a 75% deposit welcome bonus of up to $750 for crypto deposits by using the bonus code BTCSWB750. On the other hand, card users can take advantage of a 50% match deposit bonus up to $250. A 5x rollover requirement applies to the racebook before withdrawals can be taken out, ensuring a fair and balanced betting environment.

Bovada’s customer help is top-notch, featuring a detailed help center and excellent support through phone calls, emails, or web chat. This robust support system ensures that bettors can resolve any issues promptly and efficiently, minimizing any potential disruption to their betting activities.

Despite its somewhat lackluster aesthetic appeal, Bovada’s platform is well-organized and easy to navigate. This user-friendly design ensures that bettors can easily find what they’re looking for, streamlining their betting process.

Bovada provides a selection of banking options, including credit card deposits (Visa, Mastercard, and Amex) and cryptocurrencies (BTC, Ethereum, Tether, LTC, Bitcoin SV, and BTC Cash). The initial deposit with your credit card is without any fee, but future deposits can cost 15.9% or more, depending on which card you use.

Fortunately, there are no charges for crypto transactions. The minimum deposit ranges from $5 to $20, depending on the method, while the maximum ranges from $450 to $15,000. Withdrawal limits range from $2,000 to $9,500 per day for traditional methods and from $2,500 to $9,500 every 15 minutes for crypto withdrawals.

Bovada is compatible with iPhone 4 and up, as well as Android devices, making it accessible to a wide range of users. The platform is safeguarded through SSL and promises to be totally secure, as its reputation would suggest. This commitment to security ensures that bettors can place their horse racing bets with peace of mind, knowing that their information is protected.

MyBookie – Huge Amount of Race Tracks to Bet On

MyBookie, a Curacao-licensed betting platform, has been making waves in the California horse racing betting landscape since its inception in 2014. This offshore site has successfully etched its mark in the industry, becoming a credible platform for bettors seeking a wide selection of betting opportunities and markets.

One of the standout features of MyBookie is its expansive choice of racecourses. The platform covers a broad geographical scope, including racecourses in South and Central America, Ireland, Britain, and Australia. This diversity not only caters to bettors with different preferences but also adds an exciting twist to the experience of betting, as it allows bettors to venture beyond their familiar territories.

MyBookie Racing

In addition to its impressive range of racecourses, MyBookie also offers early lines on betting markets, including ante-post events. The platform’s racing markets are extensive, featuring all regular betting markets, exactas, trifectas, parlay options, and prop bets. This broad choice of markets caters to both novice and seasoned bettors, providing them with numerous betting opportunities to explore.

MyBookie’s promotional offerings are equally commendable. The platform offers a generous 50% deposit bonus for brand new users, up to as much as $1,000, with a minimum deposit of $50. This promotion, which can be claimed using the bonus code MYB50, comes with a 10x rollover requirement before any winnings are able to be withdrawn. While this requirement might seem steep to some, it’s a small price to pay for such a lucrative bonus.

Despite its many strengths, MyBookie does have a few areas that could use improvement. The platform’s customer service, for instance, is available 24/7, but only via a web form, social channels, or live chats. The absence of phone support could be a drawback for bettors who prefer to have their issues addressed over the phone.

In terms of accessibility, MyBookie boasts an attractive website with a well-laid-out racebook that simplifies the process of making parlays. The platform also supports various banking options, like cards (Mastercard and Visa) and crypto (Bitcoin, BTC Cash, LTC, Ethereum).

However, the platform’s withdrawal times can be slower, taking 2-3 days depending on the method, except for Bitcoin, which is free. Moreover, the platform charges fees for withdrawals and imposes a 1x rollover requirement on every deposit before withdrawal.

MyBookie’s mobile compatibility is another one of its strong suits. The platform works flawlessly on iOS and Android, allowing bettors to place their bets on the go. This convenience enhances the overall betting experience, making MyBookie a reliable choice for bettors in California.

How we Rank the Best Racebooks

Now let’s explore the key criteria we use to evaluate the top offshore online horse racing betting platforms in California. We’ll delve into each ranking factor, explaining its significance in a top-tier racebook.

Odds

Odds play a pivotal role in defining the potential earnings from a winning bet. Higher odds equate to greater returns, making a racebook that offers competitive horse racing odds a more appealing choice for bettors aiming for profitable betting experiences.

Betting Opportunities

The variety of betting options provided by a racebook is a significant factor. An expansive array of betting markets, including a range of exotic bets, enables bettors to leverage their knowledge and betting tactics to their advantage. This meets the demands of experienced bettors and maintains an interesting betting environment.

Live Betting & Streaming

The facility of placing bets in real-time and streaming live races enhances the thrill of the betting experience. This particular feature adds a dynamic element to horse racing betting, keeping bettors engaged and invested in the race.

Promotions

Regular promotions and horse racing bonuses are an essential aspect of a top-rated racebook. They not only attract new bettors but also provide an incentive to regular players, adding value to their betting journey.

Customer Service

Efficient and responsive customer service is crucial to the reputation of a horse racing betting website. It ensures bettors’ queries and issues are addressed promptly, providing a seamless betting experience.

Accessibility

The simplicity of accessing and navigating a racebook significantly impacts its user-friendliness. A racebook that is easy to use and navigate is more likely to retain bettors and provide a satisfactory betting experience.

Banking Options

A diverse range of banking options facilitates convenient transactions. It allows bettors to choose a method that best suits their needs, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free betting experience.

Mobile Compatibility

In the digital age, compatibility with mobile devices is vital. A racebook that functions seamlessly on various mobile devices allows bettors to wager on the move, enhancing the overall betting experience.

Security

The assurance of security and privacy is paramount in any online platform, including racebooks. Robust security measures protect bettors’ personal and financial information, instilling confidence in the platform’s credibility.

Types of Racing Betting Markets

In the world of offshore horse racing betting in the Golden State, it is important to understand which markets are available to enjoy. Let’s delve into the various wagering options available to Californians.

Win

A win bet is straightforward – you’re banking on a horse to emerge victorious.

Place

A place wager is slightly less risky, as your selected horse can secure either the first or second position.

BetUS Place

Show

A show bet broadens the scope even further, allowing your horse to finish anywhere in the top three.

Exacta

An exacta bet ups the stakes, requiring you to correctly predict the initial two finishers in their exact order.

Trifecta

A trifecta bet takes it up a notch higher, requiring you to accurately forecast the top three horses in their precise finishing order.

Superfecta

A superfecta bet is for the daring, as it demands a correct prediction of the first four horses in their exact order of finish.

Daily Double

A daily double bet is a wager on the eventual winners of consecutive races, typically the first two or last two of the day.

Parimutuel Betting

Parimutuel betting is a distinct betting system in which all wagers of a type are pooled together, with the payout determined after the house-take is deducted.

Biggest Horse Races to Bet on in California

From homegrown American classic races to international racing spectacles, these horse race events offer unparalleled excitement and betting potential.

Kentucky Derby

The Kentucky Derby is a jewel in the crown of American horse racing. One of its most celebrated champions is the illustrious Seattle Slew, who, under jockey Jean Cruguet, clinched victory in 1977, marking a classic moment in the annals of the sport.

Bovada Kentucky Derby

Preakness Stakes

The Preakness Stakes is a pinnacle of American racing. The race is remembered for the exceptional victory of Affirmed, ridden by Steve Cauthen in 1978, a triumph that has become a significant chapter in horse racing history.

Belmont Stakes

The Belmont Stakes is the ultimate test in the US Triple Crown. Famously, the 2007 race saw the triumph of Rags to Riches, the first filly to win the race in over a century, ridden by John Velazquez, which remains a milestone in the sport.

Grand National

The Grand National is a highlight of the British racing calendar. Its 1981 winner, Aldaniti, which was steered by Bob Champion, is renowned for his inspiring comeback story, symbolizing the resilience and spirit of the sport.

Cheltenham Gold Cup

The Cheltenham Gold Cup is the epitome of British jump racing. The 1983 victory of Bregawn, ridden by Graham Bradley, remains a significant achievement in the history of this prestigious race.

Melbourne Cup

The Melbourne Cup is the most prestigious race in Australia. Its 2005 champion, Makybe Diva, ridden by Glen Boss, is the only horse to have won the race three times, a record that remains unbroken.

Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe

The Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe is Europe’s richest race. Its 1970 winner, Nijinsky, ridden by Lester Piggott, is revered for his remarkable performance, making this race a spectacle of the highest order.

Dubai World Cup

The Dubai World Cup is the world’s richest horse race. Its 2010 champion, Gloria de Campeao, ridden by T J Pereira, marked the first-ever victory for a horse from Brazil in this prestigious race.

Breeders Cup

The Breeders Cup is the pinnacle of American thoroughbred racing. Its 2009 winner, Zenyatta, ridden by Mike Smith, became the first mare to win the Breeders’ Cup Classic, marking a significant moment in the sport.

How to Calculate Horse Racing Returns

Let’s delve into the process of determining profits from horse racing wagers using the American odds format. We’ll illustrate this with two fictitious racehorses: “Ocean’s Roar” with odds at +400 and “Desert Dasher” at -150.

With Ocean’s Roar, the positive horse racing betting odds of +400 suggest that for each $100 bet, a win would yield a $400 profit. So, if you bet $50 on Ocean’s Roar, your potential winnings would be calculated as follows: $50 * (400/100) = $200. Thus, your total payout, which also includes your stake, would amount to $250.

MyBookie Betslip

On the other hand, if you decide to back Desert Dasher, the negative odds of -150 indicate that you need to wager $150 to earn a $100 profit. However, if you choose to bet $50 on Desert Dasher and it wins, your winnings would be determined as follows: $50 * (100/150) = $33.33. Therefore, your total return, including your initial bet, would be $83.33.

In summary, the American odds betting system provides a clear indication of the potential return relative to your wager. Positive odds denote the profit from a $100 bet, while negative odds represent the wager needed to earn a $100 profit. This makes calculating potential returns straightforward, enabling bettors to make informed decisions.

Is Horse Racing Betting Legal in California?

Wagering on horse racing is indeed legal in the state of California. The Golden State has had a rich and lengthy history of racing and has been a hub for the sport since the early 1930s. The California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) governs all horse racing and pari-mutuel betting activities within the state.

Pari-mutuel betting, a betting system in which all bets of a particular type are placed together in a pool and payoff odds are calculated by sharing the pool among all winning bets, was legalized in California in 1933. This opened the doors for the establishment of several iconic race tracks, including Santa Anita Park and Del Mar.

California law permits residents to place wagers on horse races in person at these and other licensed race tracks, at satellite wagering facilities, and through licensed online betting platforms. Online betting platforms must be licensed by the CHRB and adhere to its regulations to operate legally. Popular platforms such as TwinSpires, TVG, and Xpressbet are among the licensed operators offering online horse race betting in California.

However, it’s important to note that while betting on horse racing is legal, other forms of online gambling, such as online poker or casino games, are not. The state takes a strict stance on illegal gambling activities, and participating in such activities can lead to penalties. Therefore, residents and visitors are advised to ensure they are betting through legal, state-regulated platforms.

State Licensed Horse Racing Betting Operators in California

Yes, there are state-licensed horse racing betting operators in California. The California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) regulates these operators. Some popular licensed online platforms include TVG, TwinSpires, and Xpressbet. These platforms are legal and offer Californians a safe and regulated option for betting on horse races, both within the state and internationally.

Horse Racing Tracks Based in California

Horse racing in California has a rich and storied history, tracing back to the mid-19th century during the Gold Rush era. The first recorded race was held in 1852 at the Pioneer Race Course in San Francisco. In the following years, horse racing gained popularity, leading to the establishment of more racetracks. Notably, Santa Anita Park, founded in 1934, quickly became a landmark for the sport.

The 20th century witnessed the golden age of horse racing in California. The state became a hub for prestigious races, including the Santa Anita Derby and the Hollywood Gold Cup. The Del Mar Racetrack, established by Bing Crosby and other Hollywood celebrities in 1937, further elevated the sport’s status.

Despite facing numerous challenges, including periods of prohibition, horse racing in California has persevered. Today, it remains a vibrant part of the state’s culture, continuing to captivate audiences with its blend of sport, tradition, and glamor.

Virtual Horse Racing in CA

Virtual horse racing is gaining popularity among bettors in California. Offshore sportsbooks offer this digital version of horse racing, which utilizes computer algorithms to determine race outcomes, ensuring fairness and uniqueness in each race. Two prominent offshore sportsbooks, MyBookie and Bovada, provide comprehensive coverage of virtual horse betting.

These platforms offer a wide range of wagering options and host regular races, guaranteeing an exciting and continuous betting experience. Both MyBookie and Bovada are user-friendly and provide detailed form guides and statistics to assist bettors in making well-informed decisions. Due to their extensive coverage and seamless user experience, MyBookie and Bovada have become favorites among virtual horse racing enthusiasts in California.

Bonuses & Promotions at Online Racebooks

The exhilarating world of offshore racing betting in California is replete with a multitude of attractive bonuses that elevate the betting thrill for enthusiasts.

BetUS Promotions

Welcome Bonuses

Welcome bonuses serve as a fantastic entryway for novice bettors into the horse racing betting sphere in California. They typically come as free bets or matching initial deposits, offering a secure and enjoyable start by mitigating the initial betting risks.

Deposit Bonuses

For those adding funds to their betting accounts, deposit bonuses act as a rewarding gesture. They usually offer a percentage of your deposit as a bonus, thus augmenting the bettors’ wagering capacity and amplifying their chances of substantial wins.

Crypto Deposit Bonuses

With the advent of digital currencies, betting platforms are incentivizing bettors using these currencies by offering crypto deposit bonuses. These bonuses parallel standard deposit bonuses and are specially tailored for crypto transactions.

Refer-a-Friend

The ‘refer a friend’ bonus is a win-win for both the referrer and the referred. By introducing a new player to the betting platform, both parties can enjoy added benefits, enhancing their betting experience.

Racing Rebates

Rebates serve as a safety net for bettors, offering a return of a portion of their bet if their horse doesn’t win. This bonus provides an element of risk mitigation, making the betting process less daunting.

Reload Offers

Reload offers are designed to reward loyal bettors who continue to refill their betting accounts. These bonuses can come in the form of free bets, deposit matches, or other incentives, keeping the betting momentum going.

Enhanced Odds

Enhanced odds offer bettors the chance to maximize their winnings. These special offers increase the potential payout on specific bets, making them an attractive option for those looking to make the most of their wager.

Deposit Methods at Online Racebooks

The world of California’s offshore horse racing betting platforms offers a wide range of banking options tailored to suit diverse bettor needs. Each method provides unique benefits, enhancing the betting experience.

Bovada Banking

Card Deposits

For bettors seeking a straightforward approach, card deposits serve as a convenient solution. Accepted widely across various platforms, this method enables users to utilize their cards from renowned providers such as VISA, MasterCard, or Amex. The process is simple – enter your card information, specify the deposit amount, and the money is immediately available to use in your account. The allure of depositing by cards lies in their ease of use, instantaneousness, and familiarity to users.

Cryptocurrencies

The digital finance revolution has brought cryptocurrencies to the forefront as a preferred banking method at California’s offshore racebooks. Esteemed cryptocurrencies such as BTC, ETH, LTC, and BTC Cash are widely accepted. These digital assets offer unparalleled security, anonymity, and transaction speed, making them an attractive option for the modern bettor.

Gift Cards

Gift cards offer another viable banking option. They are pre-loaded with a specific amount and can be used to deposit funds into your betting account. For example, platforms may accept gift cards from companies like Amazon or Walmart. The appeal of gift cards lies in their security and simplicity, as they do not require the disclosure of personal details such as banking information.

Bank Transfers

If you would rather use traditional banking methods, then bank transfers provide a secure and reliable option. This means depositing money directly from your bank account to your betting account. While the process may take longer than other methods, it offers the assurance of using a familiar banking system.

Card2Wallet

The Card2Wallet option is a unique and innovative banking method. It allows users to transfer funds from their debit or credit card directly to an e-wallet, such as PayPal or Skrill, which can then be used to deposit funds into the betting account. This method combines the convenience of card payments with the versatility of e-wallets, providing a flawless betting experience.

Horse Racing Betting Apps in CA

The shift towards mobile betting has seen our selected offshore horse racing betting sites in California eschew the need for dedicated sports betting apps. Instead, they’ve utilized HTML5 technology to create mobile apps for the best CA horse betting sites that perform flawlessly on the latest devices. For easy access, simply save these sites to your device’s home screen.

Best Android Racebooks in California

For Android users, these mobile horse racing sites offer an excellent betting experience. We recommend BetUS as the top choice for Android due to its seamless user interface and diverse horse racing betting options.

Best iOS Racebooks in California

For those using Apple devices, these mobile sites are equally efficient. Bovada, with its intuitive design and comprehensive horse racing betting options, is our top pick for iOS users.

Online Gambling in California

Find out more about gambling in California.

How to Sign Up to an California Racebook

Welcome to our guide on how to sign up for an offshore racebook while residing in California. This section will provide a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process smoothly and efficiently.

1. Accessing the Website and Initiating Registration: Begin your journey by visiting the racebook’s main website. Look for options labeled ‘sign up’ or ‘register’, typically positioned prominently on the online horse racing site. Click there to start your registration process

BetUS Sign Up

2. Inputting Registration Information and Promotional Code: At this point, you’ll need to fill in your details. If you have a promotional code, enter it now. This may unlock a variety of exclusive bonuses and special offers.

BetUS Register

3. Confirming Identity and Depositing Initial Funds: The next step involves verifying your identity by submitting the necessary documents. Once your account is authenticated, you can select your preferred payment method to deposit your funds.

BetUS Sportsbook

4. Start Betting: With all the steps completed, you can now begin betting on horse races.

Horse Racing Terminology

If you’re venturing into the world of horse racing betting in California, it’s essential to understand the specialized vocabulary used in this industry. By mastering these terms, you’ll not only enhance your betting experience but also make more informed decisions.:

  1. Ante-Post: Betting on the outcome of a horse race well in advance of the day of the event.
  2. Boxed Bet: Covering all possible combinations in multi-horse wagers.
  3. Closer: A horse that performs best in the final stages of a race.
  4. Daily Double: A bet where you must select the winners of two consecutive races.
  5. Exacta: A bet where you must pick the first two finishers in exact order.
  6. Favorite: The horse that is expected to win, based on the betting odds.
  7. Going: The condition of the racecourse surface.
  8. Maiden: A horse that has not yet won a race.
  9. Nap: The selection that racing correspondents and tipsters nominate as their strongest bet of the day.
  10. Outsider: A horse that is not expected to win.
  11. Pick Six: A bet where you must select the winners of six consecutive races.
  12. Quinella: A bet where you must pick the first two finishers, but the order doesn’t matter.
  13. Stewards: Officials in charge of enforcing the rules at a racetrack.
  14. Underlay: A horse that is offering less favorable odds compared to its actual chance of winning.
  15. Yielding: A term used to describe a turf course that is wet but not soaked.

FAQs

In our horse racing and California sports betting FAQ section, we answer some of the most commonly asked questions about horse racing betting in California. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a newcomer to the world of horse racing, these insights will help you navigate the betting landscape in the Golden State.

Can You Bet on Horse Races in California?

Absolutely, betting on horse races in California is not only legal but also a part of the state’s rich cultural heritage. The state boasts a vibrant horse racing scene, with numerous tracks hosting races throughout the year. 

Whether you prefer the thrill of live betting at the track or the convenience of placing your wagers from home, California offers plenty of options. You can bet at the track, at off-track betting facilities, or through licensed online platforms, ensuring a diverse and exciting betting experience.

Are There Horse Racing Tracks in CA?

There are several horse racing tracks in California that host a variety of races throughout the year. Some of the most famous tracks include Santa Anita Park, Del Mar Racetrack, and Golden Gate Fields. Each of these tracks has its own unique charm and history, offering a thrilling backdrop for the races. 

For example, Santa Anita Park has been a fixture of the California horse racing scene since 1934 and has hosted many prestigious races. Del Mar Racetrack, known for its “where the turf meets the surf” slogan, offers a stunning seaside setting for its races. Golden Gate Fields, the only major racetrack in Northern California, provides spectacular views of the San Francisco Bay and the Berkeley Hills.

Is it Legal to Bet Online in California?

Yes, online betting is legal in California, including betting on horse races. However, it’s crucial to ensure that you’re using a licensed and regulated platform to protect your bets and personal information. 

One highly recommended platform is BetUS, a well-regarded racebook known for its wide selection of betting options and great customer service. Whether you’re betting on a local race or a major international event, BetUS offers a secure and user-friendly platform for all your betting needs. 

Always remember to gamble responsibly and within your means and, wherever you are, ensure that you check the local state gambling laws.

Is TwinSpires Legal in California?

Yes, TwinSpires is indeed legal in California. As one of the most popular online horse race betting platforms in the United States, TwinSpires is licensed and regulated, providing a safe and secure environment for bettors. 

The platform offers a wide variety of betting options, live streaming of races, and even expert insights to help you make informed decisions. However, as always, it’s important for bettors to understand and comply with all local and state gambling laws when using online betting platforms.

Is Bovada Legal in California?

While Bovada is a well-known online betting platform, its legality in California is a gray area. Bovada operates in many parts of the United States, but California’s laws regarding online gambling are somewhat ambiguous. 

Although there have been no cases of individual bettors being prosecuted for using Bovada in California, the site itself is not licensed or regulated by the state. Therefore, while it’s not explicitly illegal, using Bovada in California does carry some risk.

What is the Best Online Racebook in California?

When it comes to the best online racebook in California, BetUS stands out among the competition. This platform is known for its comprehensive coverage of horse races, both domestic and international. With an easy-to-use interface, live streaming options, and a wide range of betting types, BetUS provides a superior betting experience. 

Additionally, BetUS is renowned for its customer service and secure, fast payout options. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or new to California horse race betting, BetUS is a reliable and enjoyable platform for your betting needs.

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