The Betting Ring is a fun place to be on a racetrack. It is there you can see the colourful competition between the punter and the Bookmaker.

You can also take advantage of the Bookmaker’s odds by shopping around for the best price available on the horse you like.

Even if you know nothing about racing, you can "follow the money" – that is, bet on the horse which is firming from longer odds to shorter odds with the Bookmakers. This is generally a good indication that somebody either a trainer, owner or a professional punter is confident about that horse’s winning chances.

There is a great satisfaction to be gained from finding a Bookmaker offering longer odds on your selection than is available elsewhere i

n the betting ring, or in taking a bet just before a rush of money brings the price tumbling down. The Betting Ring is a classic model of the operation of supply and demand.

If many punters want to back a particular horse, its odds will be "shortened" throughout the betting ring. A runner which nobody wants to back will "drift" in the betting to a longer price in an effort by Bookmakers to get punters to back it.

The Betting Ring, most importantly if you win, is where you collect your winnings. Simply take your winning ticket to the Bookmaker who accepted your bet, his name will be printed on the betting ticket and on the top of his display board.