A double is a bet which contains two selections. Doubles can also be placed from more picks, but there will only ever be two on any one line, no matter how many different runners are selected.
In some sports, a double can only be a win bet, but in horse racing, there are win doubles, each way doubles, and, if you’re in America, a daily double, so it’s essential to understand the differences between them. If you’re unsure, read on, as this guide is for you.
Types of Double Bets
Where horse racing is concerned, a double bet can refer to a win double or each-way double. As the name suggests, a win double is a bet for both horses to win, and an each-way double is split into two parts, a win and a place part. Each bet requires both selections to be successful for a return.
For those who enjoy American horse racing (and who doesn’t love the Breeders’ Cup each November) there, you can place a bet called a Daily Double. Two races on the card are picked out as the daily double races, and the punter is tasked with finding the winner of both.
The Formula for Calculating Winnings
Calculating a double bet is simple when it’s a win double. For example, a £5 win double on a pair of 1/1 shots is as follows. £5 on the first 1/1 selection returns £10. That £10 goes onto the second selection at 1/1, which returns £20 from the £5 stake.
An each-way double bet is a little more difficult as the place part of the bet depends on how many runners are in a race for the each-way terms.
For example, let’s take a pair of 10/1 shots in a 10-runner race, so ⅕ the odds on the place side for a £5 each way stake.
If they both win, the returns will be £650. If one wins and the other places or both are placed, the returns are £45 as ⅕ of 10/1 is 2/1, so it works out the same as a 2/1 & 2/1 win double.
Tips for Placing Double Bets
Odds are king in all betting. So when looking at racing, find the horse who, in your opinion, is overpriced – that’s where the value is. If you can find a couple on a card, then a double could be the perfect way to utilise those odds.
Form study is easier than ever these days, with video replays of races available online. There is no better judge than your own two eyes when picking out horses to bet in a double. Don’t forget to gamble responsibly. Set a budget for gambling per week or month and stick to it.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Double Bets
Double bets are an excellent way for punters who like the idea of a sizable return for their stake. Any multiple bet can see winnings grow quickly, and of all the multiple bets, the double is the easiest to place and understand. The more selections, the higher the degree of difficulty, so doubles are the perfect way for novice bettors to dip a toe into multiples betting.
While finding the winner of two races doesn’t sound all that difficult, betting on animals can be trickier than it sounds. Horses are not machines, so all the study in the world does not always provide success.
Also, any multiples are more challenging to land than singles, so remember that when placing a double bet.
Double Bet Frequently Asked Questions
They certainly can be, especially compared to singles. As for all bets, though, showing a profit depends on the individual bettor and the research put in.
A standard double bet requires both selections to win, and an each-way double bet only requires the selections to place. The returns are considerably more if both win, of course.
Most bookmakers will take double bets at different tracks. Still, there are sometimes restrictions if choosing from different jurisdictions (i.e. UK and America), so best to check the rules specific to each odds provider.
Yes, if you’re into American racing, you can pick multiple selections but don’t forget the total stake goes up quickly the more you select.
There are 21 doubles from seven selections.