No, “Best Tote” is not a universal guarantee of the best possible odds; it simply ensures you receive the highest dividend among the three major Totes: Super TAB, NSW TAB, and Tatts.
The critical nuance for any punter is that with Tote products, the actual price you receive remains unknown until after the correct weight is declared.
How does the Best Tote product work?
Best Tote compares the dividends from the Super TAB, NSW TAB, and Tatts, paying out whichever is the highest. Because these are pari-mutuel pools, you cannot lock in a price and must wait for the official dividend to be displayed after the race.
What is the difference between Top Tote and Top Fluc?
Top Tote selects the best of the three Totes, whereas Top Fluc is the best price recorded from the betting ring during official betting, which typically starts 25 minutes before the jump. Punters seeking a broader edge often look for “BOB” (Best of the Best), which provides the greater of the three totes or the Top Fluc.
Why choose Fixed Odds over the Tote?
Fixed Odds lock in your price at the moment you place the bet, meaning you are protected if the horse is backed in and the price shortens. This removes the uncertainty of the dividend and allows a professional punter to secure value the moment it appears on the board.
Which odds product offers the most value?
For those using Betfair, the “Best of 5” product is a strong option as it includes the Best of 4 plus the Betfair Exchange Starting Price. Elite Racing’s analysis suggests that sticking to disciplined, restrained betting habits is the only way to maintain access to these core offerings long term.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Starting Price (SP)?
SP is the average of the on-course bookmakers at the start of the race and isn’t released until after the race is over.
Why do bookmakers cancel promotions for some punters?
Bookies will pull promotions as soon as you start showing disciplined and profitable betting habits, which is why pros rely on the main odds products.
What is “Best of 4”?
This is a Betfair product that pays the best of the three Totes or the Starting Price, whichever is greater.
Horse racing betting involves financial risk. Bet only what you can afford to lose. For support, visit Gambling Help Online or call 1800 858 858.