Best odds guaranteed and each-way terms are two of the most misunderstood parts of racing bets. This guide explains both in plain English so you know what you are getting before you bet. It is a guide to how betting works, not a tipping service.
What is best odds guaranteed?
Best odds guaranteed (BOG) is an offer from some bookmakers on some races. If you take an early price and the starting price is bigger, you are paid at the starting price. If the starting price is shorter, you keep your early price. Not every bookmaker offers it, and it usually applies only to selected races, bet types or times of day, so read the terms.
How does each-way betting work?
An each-way bet is two bets of equal stake: one for the horse to win and one for it to place. A €5 each-way bet costs €10. If the horse wins, both parts pay. If it places but does not win, only the place part pays, at a fraction of the odds.
What are each-way places and fractions?
The number of places and the fraction depend on the race type and the number of runners, and bookmakers often offer extra places on big races. Common fractions are a quarter or a fifth of the odds. Always check the terms shown on the bet slip.
Worked example
A €5 each-way bet at 10/1 with one quarter odds for the places costs €10. At one quarter odds the place part pays at 2.5/1. If the horse wins, the win part returns €55 (€50 profit plus €5 stake) and the place part returns €17.50 (€12.50 profit plus €5 stake), €72.50 in total, a profit of €62.50. If the horse only places, you get €17.50 back on the €10 staked, a profit of €7.50. If it does not place, you lose the €10.
What is the difference between BOG and extra places?
BOG protects the price you take. Extra places widen how many finishing positions the place part pays. They are separate offers and can apply together or not at all.
For related terms such as non-runner and Rule 4, see our horse racing betting guide, and bet types explained for other bets.
Where can you bet in Ireland?
Bet only with a bookmaker licensed for Irish customers: see our betting sites in Ireland and how to check a bookmaker is licensed. Use the bet calculator to check returns.
Keep it in perspective
Set a budget before you start, only bet what you can afford to lose, and see our responsible gambling page for help.
Frequently asked questions
What does best odds guaranteed mean?
If the starting price is bigger than the price you took, you are paid at the starting price. Conditions vary by bookmaker.
What does each-way mean?
Two equal bets, one for the horse to win and one to place.
What does a €5 each-way bet cost?
€10, because it is two €5 bets.
Is BOG the same as extra places?
No. BOG protects the price you take, while extra places widen how many positions the place part pays.
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