Many people enjoy making a good parlay bet, so why not use this strategy in horse racing. There's a popular system that gives you, the bettor, complete control if you win your first leg (race). Here's how it works, along with some helpful tips.


The Show Parlay


The show parlay is a popular, low-risk betting strategy in horse racing. It's frequently discussed on Discord and social media. It involves repeatedly betting on horses to "show" (finish in the top three) and reinvesting all winnings into the next show bet, potentially across multiple races. The beauty is that you get to choose which race to bet next. It could be at a completely different track or on a different day.


You begin with an initial bet amount placed on a horse to show in the first race (leg). If your horse finishes in first, second, or third place, you will receive the show payout. Afterward, you take the total amount won—your original stake plus the winnings—and place it as a bet on another horse to show in the next race. The next leg can take place later the same day or the following day, depending on your preference.


This process can be repeated for as many races as you choose or until you lose a bet or cash out due to a previous big payout. I prefer to select 4 to 6 races and stick with that, regardless of how much the show parlay has earned. Although, I've often ended my betting after just two or three races when I was up over 60% of my original investment. Horse racing is a challenging sport, so don't be too greedy and always cash out if you're up by at least 60%.


Imagine you begin with a $20 show bet:


Race/Leg 1: Your horse wins and pays $6 (2/1) to show. You now have $60.

Race 2: You bet $60 to show on another horse. That horse shows and pays $3 (1/2), so you now have $90.


Race 3: You can keep parlaying the $90 until you either lose or decide to cash out. Additionally, you can play a smaller portion of your bankroll to ensure a winning Show Parlay wager.


You do not have to bet every race—pick only races where you have a strong opinion or edge. The strategy is appealing for its social aspect and the chance to turn small stakes into a larger sum with relatively safe bets. Low risk compared to win or exotic bets since show bets pay if the horse finishes in the top three. Potential for significant returns if you string together several successful show bets.


Be aware that a single loss in a parlay will end the bet and forfeit any accumulated winnings. Show payouts are generally lower than the payouts for win or place bets. This often leads to modest growth in returns unless the parlay includes multiple races or you bet against a favorite with odds of 4/5 or lower, who ultimately finishes out of the money.


Find a friend or family member to combine your bets. It's enjoyable and can significantly increase your profits.


Wagering Strategy:


Stick to horses with odds of 7/2 or higher, and only bet in fields with eight or more horses. Avoid playing chalk in small fields, as the risk isn't worth it. Look for vulnerable favorites who are attempting something for the first time. Consider long shots that have faced traffic issues in past races at the same class level. Look for horses with improving speed figures and vice versa. Focus on hot trainers with horses at 7/2 or higher, and concentrate on race tracks where you have had success.


Follow Jeff on X @JHSPORTSLINE